PASSION-FLOWER. 325 



superseded by the blue Passion-flower, which is hardy 

 enough to flower in the open air, and makes an elegant 

 tapestry for an unsightly wall. The leaves of this, in the 

 autumn, are of the most brilliant crimson ; and, when the 

 sun is shining upon them, seem to transport one to the 

 gardens of Pluto. 



The Rose-coloured, however, is better adapted for pots ; 

 and, if sheltered from frost, will thrive without artificial 

 heat. In mild weather it may be allowed fresh air, and in 

 the summer will enjoy a full exposure to it. The flowers 

 are purple and white ; very handsome, and sweet, but very 

 short-lived opening in the morning, and fading in the 

 evening. 



The fruit is about the size of an Orlean-plum : when 

 ripe, it is of a pale orange-colour, and encloses many rough 

 seeds, lying in a sweet pulp. The fruit of some kinds is 

 eatable, and in the West Indies much esteemed. It varies 

 in size from that of an olive to that of a large melon. 



The fruit of the Laurel-leaved Passion-flower, or Water- 

 lemon, contains a sweet and tasteful juice, which is ex- 

 tremely fragrant. The West Indians suck this juice 

 through a hole in the rind. The French call this species 

 pomme di liane [bindweed apple], and English Honey- 

 suckle. 



The Passion-flower should be raised in a hot-bed ; and 

 should be housed in October, carefully screening it from 

 frost, but admitting air in mild weather. In summer, the 

 earth must be kept tolerably moist, but water must be given 

 very sparingly in winter. 



Harte, considering it emblematically, thus describes it : 



tf All beauteous flower, whose centre glows 



With studs of gold ; thence streaming flows 

 Ray-like effulgence. Next is seen 

 A rich expanse, of varying hue, 



