

OLD-FASHIONED GARDEN FLOWERS. 



285 



supports a large imbricate calyx, tlie members of winch have 

 stiff bristle-like hairs. Each flower will be 2in. to 3in. across, 

 and of a fine blue colour. The leaves are aranged on stout 

 round stems, 18in. high, being from 2in. to 6in. long, somewhat 

 lobed and toothed at the base, the teeth rather spiny; their 



FIG. 101. STOKESIA CYANEA. 

 (One-sixth natural size.) 



shape varies very much, but generally they are lance-shaped, 

 concave, often waved at the edges, and otherwise contorted. 

 The foliage is more thickly furnished at the upper part of the 

 plant, it has a glaucous hue, is of good substance, smooth 

 and shining, like many of the gentians. It will, therefore, 

 be seen that this is far from a weedy-looking subject, and 

 throughout the season has a tidy and shrub-like appearance, but 

 it grows top-heavy, and, unless supported, is liable to be snapped 

 off at the ground line by high winds. 



In order to get it to bloom before the frosts cut it, the soil and 



