32 



the forms are magnificent decorative plants, both for the 

 open border and for indoor use. They will grow in any 

 kind of soil and position. In appearance, Phormium resembles 

 a gigantic Iris, the thick sword-like leaves are at times 9 ft. 

 long or more ; they are tightly bunched together below, but 

 above they open out somewhat, and frequently droop near 

 their extremities. The flowers, of a lurid red in P. tenax 

 and yellowish-red or greenish-red in P. Cookianum, are borne 

 on stout stalks 6-15 ft. high. Propagation is from seeds or 

 by pieces of the rootstock. The dark purplish-brown form 

 of P. tenax is much brighter-coloured when young, and at 

 that stage is very effective. Apart from its ornamental value, 

 P. tenax is a highly important economic fibre-plant. 



(19.) The Species of Ranunculus. 



Unfortunately, the large-flowered New Zealand species ot 

 buttercup are not easy to cultivate, except in certain favoured 

 localities, where the climate is mild and moist. Otherwise, 

 such species as R. Lyallii, R. insignis, R. Godleyanus, and 

 R. Buchanani would be amongst the most famous garden- 

 plants of the world. It might be feasible to ship the fleshy 

 rhizomes of R. Lyallii (the mountain-lily) during the winter. 

 These, if potted or grown in a shady part of the garden, 

 should flower quite well. But, in all likelihood, the plants 

 would not be of further use. Be this as it may, such a 

 lovely flowering-plant, if it could be procured cheaply and 

 that would depend altogether upon the demand might well 

 become a feature of the spring garden, coming in a little 

 after the daffodils. 



(20.) The Species of Raoulia. 



No plants in any flora are better suited for rock-garden 

 purposes, occupying a similar place to the saxifrages, than 

 are the different species of Raoulia, a remarkable genus con- 

 fined to New Zealand. Leaving out of consideration the huge 

 cushion-plants, briefly dealt with below, the species suitable 

 for garden purposes are those which form circular green or 

 silvery mats, or low cushions. These plants, when once 

 established, can be increased to any extent by means of 



