204 THE GLADIOLUS AND ITS CULTURE. 



attention. But the results of the last few years, since it 

 has received more careful culture, and since the fine new 

 varieties have been introduced, have been wonderful ; and 

 at the present time there is probably no one class of 

 plants which promises better for the future, not only in 

 Europe but also in this country, than the Gladiolus. 



There are three species of gladiolus (G. Byzantinus, 

 communis, and roseus), which are tolerably hardy, and if 

 once planted in the open borders will flower well year after 

 year, requiring little attention. Bulbs of these varieties 

 should be planted in November, and need no protection. 

 Perhaps, however, it is better to throw some loose litter 

 over the bed, as Eoseus is often winter-killed. .Plant the 

 bulbs in little clumps, four or five together ; they will 

 flower finely the next spring, and need no further care. 

 The bulb must, however, be planted deep enough to protect 

 it from severe frosts, and to prevent its being thrown out 

 of the ground. 



G. Cardinalis was first introduced into this country 

 about the year 1835 ; it was for a time very rare, but can 

 now be easily procured. It is a native of the Cape of 

 Good Hope, and in England receives the same attention 

 and culture as the rest of the so-called " Cape bulbs ;" but 



