354 MANUAL OF GARDENING 



from August to November, and is at that season the finest of bordel 

 plants. The pure white flowers, with lemon-colored stamens, are held 

 well up on stalks 2-3 ft. high. The flower-stems are long and ex- 

 cellent for cutting. This species may be propagated by division of the 

 plants or by seed. The former method should be employed in the 

 spring; the latter, as soon as the seeds are ripe in the fall. Sow the 

 seed in boxes in a warm, sheltered situation in the border or under 

 glass. The seed should be covered lightly with soil containing a quan- 

 tity of sand and not allowed to become dry. A well-enriched, sheltered 

 position in a border should be given. 



The httie wild wind-flowers are easily colonized in a hardy border. 



Aralia, A. Sieholdii (properly Fatsia Japonica and F. papyrifera) , as 

 it is sometimes called, and the variety variegata, with large, palmlike 

 leaves, are grown for their tropical appearance. 



Sow in February, in shallow trays and light soil, in a temperature 

 of 65°. Continue the temperature. When two or three leaves have 

 formed, transplant into other trays 1 in. apart. Sprinkle them with 

 a fine rose or spray; and do not allow them to suffer for water. Later 

 transfer them to small pots and repot them as they grow. Plant out 

 in beds after the weather has become warm and settled. Half-hardy 

 perennials in the North, becoming 3 ft. or more high; a shrub in the 

 South and in California. Used often in sul^tropical work. 



Araucaria, or Norfolk Island pine, is now sold in pots by florists as a 

 window plant. There are several species. The greenhouse specimens 

 are the juvenile state of plants that become large trees in their native 

 regions; therefore, it is not to be expected that they will keep shapely 

 and within bounds indefinitely. 



The common species (A. excelsa) makes a symmetrical evergreen 

 subject. It keeps well in a cool window, or on the veranda in the 

 summer. Protect it from direct sunlight, and give plenty of room. 

 If the plant begins to fail, return it to the florist for recuperation, or 

 procure a new plant. 



Auricula. — A half-hardy perennial of the primrose tribe ( Prwiula 

 Auricula), very popular in Europe, but little grown in America on 

 account of the hot, dry summers. 



