PHYLLOSTACHYS NIGRO-PUNCTATA 
A FORM of PHYLLOSTACHYS NIGRA supposed to be rather 
taller and more free-growing than the type. The stems, 
instead of turning to a deep glossy black in their second year, 
assume a brown colour speckled all over with darker spots. 
There is no other character to differentiate it from P. NIGRA ; 
indeed I much doubt whether there is any warranty for 
keeping the two as separate species, rather, as it seems to 
me, is P. NIGRO-PUNCTATA simply an accidental variation. 
It is, however, hardier than the type, which makes me think 
that it may be P. NIGRA brought from a colder home than 
the blacker variety, where the sun has not been strong 
enough to bring out the full colour. Although I have 
planted out a great many specimens without giving them the 
slightest protection, exposing them immediately after their 
arrival from abroad in places at the mercy of our bleakest 
winds, I have not lost a single one. In cases where the type 
was treated in the same way I lost a large percentage. With 
care, however, this is unnecessary, and I should always 
prefer planting the type, the colour of the culms being so 
much more attractive. 
