68 



Ornamental Shrubs. 



ERICA FRAQRANS. 



with lime proves fatal to success. But with all these draw- 

 backs it is surprising that the heaths are not more generally 



planted in this country than they 

 are. Equal and even more at- 

 tention is bestowed on many 

 sorts in no wise superior, and 

 with less satisfactory results. 

 Their flowering season covers 

 almost the entire year, though 

 no single variety is a perpetual 

 bloomer. But by a proper selec- 

 tion from among the various 

 forms these little plants become 

 objects of interest and pleasure 

 in spring and summer, autumn and winter. 



As greenhouse and conservatory plants many of them 

 are highly esteemed, and whole houses are often devoted 

 to their cultivation. Both in the greenhouse and garden 

 there is wide range for selection. Some of the species are 

 small and especially suited to growing in borders and 

 edgings. Others are larger and well adapted to massing 

 or appearing as single specimens. Some blossom in early 

 spring, others in midsummer to late autumn and even in 

 early winter. The numbers of species and varieties are so 

 great that no attempt will be made at description except in 

 a general way. Nor will any attempt be made at scientific 

 accuracy in names and qualities. 



Almost every one has heard of the interesting little 

 shrub known as the Scotch heath or heather, and though, 

 botanically, this is classed as calluna it is such an impor- 



