CHAPTER. LAU 
THUNIA. 
THIS genus is nearly allied to Phaius, and in the ‘‘ Genera 
Plantarum” is included under that genus. It differs so 
much, however, from Phaius proper in stem, leaf, and in- 
florescence, and is now so generally known under the 
above title, that we prefer to retain it as a good garden 
genus, thereby following the classification of the late 
Professor Reichenbach. There are probably only two 
species introduced, although specific names have been given 
to what are simply varieties of these. The stems are 
erect, terete, rather herbaceous, of only annual duration, 
the old stem perishing as the new one develops; they are 
clothed with leaves to the base, these falling away in 
autumn. The flowers are produced from the apex of the 
young leafy stem in large, drooping clusters; their structure 
is very like that of Phaius, the sepals and petals being 
arranged above the plane of the lip, the sides of the 
latter inclosing the column, whilst the front portion is 
expanded. The species are natives of India, Burmah, &c., 
where they appear to be very abundant. 
Culture.—Even the smallest collection should include a 
few plants of this genus, for no Orchids of equal beauty are 
more easily grown and propagated. Although they are said 
to be epiphytal when wild, they thrive best in cultivation when 
