20 Parlor-Plants. 



remain, increasing the size of the pot as may be required ; as, when thus a 

 plant becomes large, it is seldom out of bloom. 



The proper soil is rich loam and peat ; but any good garden-soil will 

 grow callas well. A table of callas in our parlor is a source of constant 

 pleasure to us. From ten plants we seldom have less than five flowers 

 constantly in bloom. Callas will not bear the least frost, and are easily 

 injured by cold draughts : they bear gas and dry furnace-heat well, and are 

 particularly adapted for city window-culture. 



The only other species and varieties are Richardia hasiata, a native of 

 Natal, with greenish-white flowers, and the variety of R. ^thiopica with 

 white spotted leaves, neither of which is specially desirable. 



Next on our list of plants we place the Chinese Primrose, — Prbnula 

 prcEuitcns, or sometimes sinensis, the former the more correct name ; but 

 why applied to a plant with uniformly rough, hair}^ leaves, would puzzle 

 one to tell. Name it as we ma}-, however, this plant is not only useful and 

 ornamental in the greenhouse, but is especially adapted for window-culture. 

 Of neat, low habit, it occupies but little room, is of the easiest culture, 

 readily accommodates itself to all conditions, and is always in bloom from 

 December to May : indeed, its only fault is, it often blooms itself to death. 



The plant, as the name implies, is a native of China ; from which coun- 

 try came also the double pink and white varieties. All the other varied 

 forms with fimbriate flowers and rich colors are the result of hybridization. 



The best way to procure a stock is to raise seedlings, though plants may 

 be obtained at any greenhouse. 



The single varieties are best adapted for house-culture. 



Sow the seed in May or June in a deep pan, covering it very lightly 

 with earth ; and, giving moderate waterings, place it in a warm place. When 

 the plants appear, give air and light, and water gently. As soon as the 

 plants are large enough to handle, prick them out in pans, and let them grow 

 until they begin to crowd each other ; then pot them in small pots, and 

 repot as they grow until they are in eight-inch pots, in which they may be 

 bloomed. All buds should be picked off as soon as they appear until the 

 plants are of the required size ; for, if the plants begin to bloom, they stop 

 growing. 



The soil should be turfy loam, well-rotted cow manure, and sand. Drain- 



