202 BULBS AND TUBEROUS-ROOTED PLANTS, 
thy a place in the shaded border. It can be easily 
removed from its native habitat, by lifting the tuberous 
roots when the foliage begins to turn yellow, and trans- 
ferring them to the garden, with as little delay as possi- 
ble. But few of our native plants are as attractive, or so 
easily managed. When once planted it can remain 
undisturbed for years, and when under cultivation the 
flowers increase in size and in the number of their petals. 
In the border, it will require a mulching of leaves, which 
it has in its native wood, to protect against frost. 
SCILLA. 
Squill. 
Among spring and early summer flowering bulbs, 
the Scillas are of considerable importance, both for their 
effect in the border and for their use as cut flowers. 
Their flowers resemble those of the Hyacinth, but are 
much smaller; their colors are more intense, and they 
come into flower much earlier. As an edging, or for fill- 
ing small beds, if planted sufficiently thick, the effect is 
matchless ; and equally so grown in the borders in groups 
of a dozen or a hundred. ‘The bulbs should be planted 
in October, either in the border, or for the house in pots, 
in the same manner as the Hyacinth. ‘They thrive any- 
where, but do best in good sandy soil. ‘They may remain 
several years undisturbed without injury, the clump 
increasing in size and beauty. 
S. sibirica.—This species is the gem of the genus, 
its intense blue flowers, appearing with the Crocus and 
Snowdrop, make a pleasing contrast. It is a native of 
Siberia, as its name would imply, and is perfectly hardy. 
S. preecox.—Similar to the foregoing, but not as 
hardy; however, if planted in a dry situation, it will 
not be injured by frost. It is a native of Germany. 
S. campanulata.—One of the finest species; a 
native of Spain. Flowers blue, white and pink. 
