NARCISSUS ORNITHOGALUM ARABICUM 303 



showy bed of flowers. The gracefulness which is its principal charm 

 is not effective when planted in large masses. But this apparent 

 shortcoming is more than atoned for by its elegant appearance in the 

 positions for which it is naturally adapted. Beneath trees, by the side 

 of a shady walk, in front of shrubberies, or in the mixed border, the 

 Narcissus is thoroughly at home, and large groups of it cannot fail 

 to arrest attention. 



If possible, choose a position where the bulbs need not be dis- 

 turbed for several years, and plant them early. When the spot they 

 are to occupy happens to be full, pot the bulbs until the ground is 

 vacant, and in due time turn them out. A southern or western aspect 

 is desirable, but the nature of the soil is comparatively unimportant, 

 provided it is dry when the bulbs are in their resting state. In sour 

 land or in stagnant water they will certainly rot, but a touch of sea 

 spray will not injure them. If the soil needs enriching, there is no 

 better material than decayed cow-manure, which may be incorporated 

 as the work goes on, or it can be applied as a top dressing. Plants 

 which are evidently weak may be assisted with a few doses of manure 

 water, not too strong. 



In planting groups, put the smaller bulbs four or five inches 

 apart, and the larger sorts from six to nine inches ; depth, six to nine 

 inches, according to size. Where exposed to a strong wind, it may be 

 necessary to give the flowers some kind of support to save them from 

 injury. 



The Double and Single Daffodils are now in marked public 

 favour. Their bright colours make them extremely valuable for 

 planting under and among trees, and a sufficient number should 

 always be put in to produce an immediate effect. They thrive 

 in damp, shady spots, and every three or four years it will be necessary 

 to divide and replant them. 



ORNITHOGALUM ARABICUM 



DURING the month of June this fine variety of the Star of Bethlehem 

 produces heads of pure white fragrant flowers, each having a black 

 centre. The roots are large and fleshy, and should be planted in 

 the autumn nine inches deep. A sheltered position, such as under 

 a south wall, is desirable for them, and some protection in the form 

 of dry litter, or a heap of light manure, will be necessary to carry the 

 roots safely through severe winter weather. The bulbs are frequently 

 potted for indoor decoration. 



