100 FLOWER-GARDENING. 



Aloe. Of this genus there are numerous species and varieties, 

 some of which are very curious, being possessed of all the varied 

 forms and figures peculiar to succulent plants. Some species 

 flower annually from March to September ; and all, except the 

 Century Aloe, blossom frequently. The colors are generally 

 yellow, pink, and red. The singular figure and habits of these 

 plants render them desirable for green-house culture. 



Alstrcemeria. Of this genus of plants there are several species, 

 which have tuberous roots. The flowers of the varieties are of 

 different shades, as rose-colored, scarlet, yellow, red, etc. ; and 

 some are variegated, as the Alstrcemeria psittacina, which is red, 

 yellow, and green, and the A. tricolor, which is black, white, 

 and yellow. They are beautiful plants when kept in good 

 order. 



Arbutus, European Strawberry Tree. A half-hardy ever- 

 green shrub, of which there are several species and varieties, 

 producing crimson and pink blossoms, and fruit, which remain 

 on the plant a considerable time. 



Ardesia, Chinese Ardesia. This is generally cultivated as a 

 hot-house plant; and if kept in the green-house, should be 

 placed in a warm situation. There are several species, produc- 

 ing oblong shining leaves, pink flowers, and red berries, which 

 are very ornamental. 



Aster argophyllus, Musk Plant. A plant of no great beauty, 

 but esteemed by some for its muskj^ fragrance ; leaves ovate, 

 lanceolate, and silky beneath. 



Aucuba Japonica. A half-hardy shrub, with pale green 

 leaves spotted with yellow. It produces small purple blossoms, 

 but is desirable for its foliage only : to preserve which in good 

 condition, shade in the summer is absolutely necessary. 



Azalea. The Chinese species of Azalea are numerous and 

 beautiful, producing blossoms of various hues, as white, purple, 

 scarlet, yellow, etc., and some are striped and spotted, which 

 succeed each other from February to May, under good culti- 

 vation. 



A skilful florist, Mr. William Russell, has some hybrids which 



