126 SCHOOL AND HOME GARDENS 



flower. It derives its name from the red-orange, acid 

 juice that flows out of the root when it is injured. A 

 clump of bloodroot sending up its stalks of pure white 

 flowers makes a pretty picture. The thickened roots 

 may be transplanted at any time after the leaves die 

 down in the summer, or early in the spring. 



THE BLUEBELL 



In planning a rockery or a border the wild bluebell 

 (Mertensia virginica) should not be overlooked. Its hand- 

 some, nodding, purplish-blue flowers are raised in loose 

 clusters about a foot above the ground ; it thrives in the 

 shade in rich, loamy soil. The thickened roots may be 

 transplanted in the fall or early in the spring. 



The bluebell would serve as an excellent companion 

 plant for the star of Bethlehem, with its delicate white, 

 spreading flower. The star of Bethlehem is reproduced 

 by bulbs, which may be transplanted after the foliage 

 dies down. 



BLUETS 



Bluets (Houstonia ccerulea) usually grow in the open 

 on moist, grassy hillsides. The flowers are light blue, 

 pale lilac, or nearly white, and appear in May and June. 



Even after the plants have begun to bloom, clumps 

 growing in the grass may be taken up and transplanted. 

 They will continue to blossom if kept moist. Place the 

 masses very close together, so they will form a carpet 

 over the ground. 



