228 



Notes and Gleaniue^s. 



when we come to the newer species, such as C. Verschaffeltii and C. Gibsoni, 

 we have bedding-plants of the highest merit. 



The brilHancy of foUage which they present is unrivalled ; and the sunnier 

 the situation, the better do they develop their foliage. 



The last season gave us as one of the best new introductions " Coleus Veitchii, 

 which is a free-growing plant, having more of the stout vigorous habit of C. Gibsoni 

 than that of C. VerscJiaffeltii. Its leaves are flat, ovately heart-shaped, of a velvety 

 brown-purple on the disk, with a narrow edge of bright green. In its class, it 

 must be regarded as an eflfective plant. From its appearance, it is likely to be use- 

 ful both in doors and out. We owe to Mr. J. G. Veitch the introduction of this 

 novelty, as also that of C. Gibsoni.'''' 



Our figure of this species is taken from " The Florist." The culture of these 

 plants is extremely simple. The soil should be sandy loam, with a slight admix- 

 ture of peat. Plenty of water while in growth, and constant repotting when 

 the roots touch the sides of the pot, will give a specimen in a few months. Prop- 

 agation is very easy from cuttings of the half-ripened wood, which root freely in 

 sand, with or without bottom heat. 



These plants are well adapted for summer-decoration of the conservatory, 

 where their dark foliage is very conspicuous. The flowers are small, yet, on a 

 large plant, rather add to the effect. Seed is also produced, from which plants 

 may be raised. E. S. R., Jun. 



