OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 



215 



it has been proved to be perfectly hardy in North Britain. This 

 species is comparatively new to English gardens, but it has 

 already obtained great favour and is much grown (see Fig. 76). 



FIG. 76. PRIMULA CASHMEBIANUM. 

 (One-fourth natural size.) 



No collection of Primulce can well be without it ; its boldness, 

 even in its young state, is the first characteristic to draw atten- 

 tion, for with the leaf development there goes on that of the 

 scape. For a time the foliage has the form of young cos lettuce, 

 but the under sides are beautifully covered with a meal 

 resembling gold dust. This feature of the plant is best seen at 

 the early stage of its growth, as later on the leaves bend or 

 flatten to the ground in rosette form, the rosettes being often 



