PHLOX. 



143 



Phlox maculata. The stem is dotted with dark spots, from 

 which circumstance it receives its generic name, maculata, 

 (spotted.) It is one of the most common sorts, and found orna- 

 menting almost every garden ; frequently known under the 

 name of Flora's bouquet. The flowers are so pretty, one might 

 readily imagine the fair goddess would not be indifferent to their 

 charms. It begins to show its purplish-red flowers the last of 

 May, which are crowded on an oblong spike, and continues 

 long in bloom ; if cut down immediately after flowering, a 

 second display may be expected in August or September. 

 Stems rough ; two feet high. 



Phlox suaveolens. Sweet-scented. It has white, sweet- 

 scented flowers, arranged in the same manner as the last ; stem 

 without spots. Leaves ovate lanceolate, quite smooth. The 

 height and time of flowering the same as P. maculata, and by 

 some considered as only a variety of it. It is one of the most 

 delicate of the species, and, when grown with the last described, 

 makes a fine appearance. 



Some of the florist's varieties partake of the character of the 

 two following : 



Phlox carnea. Flesh-colored. This delicate species com- 

 mences flowering the middle of June. After its first display it 

 continues to flower sparingly through the summer and autumn. 

 Leaves ciliated, (eyelash-haired,) lowest setaceous, upper one 

 linear lanceolate, (narrow lace-shape.) Branches from three to 

 five-flowered. 



Phlox Listonia. ln honor of Lady Liston. A beautiful 

 species, with fine red flowers, in June ; a foot and a half high. 

 Foliage broader than in most species; radical leaves rhom- 

 boidal ; upper ones ovate lanceolate. 



Some of the most improved early summer varieties are the 

 following : 



Phlox Van Houtteii is a superb variety, with a fine round 

 corolla, each segment being regularly and distinctly striped 

 with purplish-red, on white ground. Height, one and a half 

 foot. In flower the last of June. 



