162 BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS 



Begonia. We considered Begonias under Bulbs, so far, at 

 least, as the tuberous ones are concerned. But we must remember 



that Begonia beauty does not begin and 

 end with that magnificent class. There is 

 another great section called the fibrous 

 rooted, because it does not form tubers, 

 and it includes a large number of species 

 and hybrids, not one whit inferior to the 

 tuberous in beauty, glorious plants though 

 the latter are. What Begonia, for ex- 

 ample what plant of any genus, if it 

 comes to that is more beautiful than that 



TUBEROUS-ROOTED BEGONIAS . . . 



exquisite hybrid Begonia Gloire de Lor- 



A, a small tuber commencing to grow, Tl * 



for boxes or pans ; B, one larger ra j ne > fllC white form, TUHlford Hall, Is 

 for small pots ; C, a strong tuber 



which will bioom freely ; D, the a } so a lovely plant. Other charming kinds 



tuber C potted in compost E. 



are Gloire de Sceaux, Weltoniensis, and 



semperflorens rosea. These fibrous-rooted Begonias have another 

 great recommendation in addition to their 

 beauty, they flower in winter and spring. 

 Gloire de Lorraine may be had in bloom 

 soon after Christmas, and be kept fresh and 

 cheerful a light, fairy mass of softest rose 

 for several weeks. It is frequently grown in 

 a wire basket, and suspended from the roof; 

 and perhaps it is under such conditions that it 

 is seen to the greatest advantage. After it has 

 bloomed it is gradually dried off, and cut 

 back to short stumps. After a short rest it is 

 given a little heat, the stumps are syringed, 

 and fresh growth starts. When the shoots 

 have pushed two or three inches long they 

 are taken off as cuttings, struck, and made into a fresh supply 

 of plants. Another method of propagation is to take a large, 



BEGONIA GLOIRE DE 

 LORRAINE 



A, old stems cut back ; B, young 

 shoots ; C, young shoots in- 

 serted as cuttings. 



