PENTSTEMON 203 



Pentste'mon — cmitimied. 



treated as if they were annual that it would be a 

 mistake to omit them. Moreover, if left in the 

 ground during the winter, they not infrequently die 

 off, being of uncertain constitution. Seedling plants 

 make just as fine blooms as old plants. They throw 

 up several spikes, each bearing tiers of tubular 

 Gloxinia-like flowers, from violet and mauve to 

 crimson, pink, and white. From a packet of seed 

 some extra good variety is sure to appear, and if 

 it is required to propagate it, recourse is had to 

 cuttings of the young shoots which are easily 

 struck. 



P. cyanan'thus is a beautiful plant, 3 ft. high, 



having spikes of bright blue flowers. N. 



America. An improved form of this is known 



as Brande'gei. 



P. cwru'lea is only 1 ft. high, and bears numerous 



bright blue flowers. 

 P. Hartwe'gii and the large flowered garden 

 hybrids are the sorts most recommended for 

 sowing. The variety of colours is endless. 

 P. Murraya'nus is quite a tall kind, 3 to 4 ft. or 

 even more, with broad greyish foliage and 

 bright scarlet flowers. A native of Texas, it 

 naturally requires a warm position. 

 Sow seed in February in slight heat, and prick 

 off in boxes when large enough to handle. Gradually 

 harden off in cold frame, and plant out in May. 

 Good soil enriched with manure and leaf-mould 

 will suit them. 



