40 



A LITTLE BOOK OF PERENNL\LS 



Left, The Monkshood or Aconitum, striking plants resembhng Larkspurs; right, 

 Anchusa, a rare deep blue of May. 



lengthened by cutting down the taller sprays when the flowers begin to 

 fade. This will cause smaller spikes to appear which will continue 

 blooming through September. They are of such beauty and are so 

 attractive in early Spring when so few blue flowers are in sight, that 

 they have proven very popular. The bees also delight in visiting 

 them. 



Uses. Anchusa s have proven an invaluable plant for the border, 

 and are used in woodlands to a certain extent. A. my osotidi flora is a 

 dwarf variety bearing small flowers and is used eff'ectively in rock 

 gardens, especially in shady nooks, where it blooms all Summer. 



Culture. Any good garden soil, plenty of sunshine, and a well- 

 drained situation suit them. Most of the plants become fuUy estab- 

 lished during the second or third year. They are moisture-loving 

 plants and should be given copious soakirigs of water during dry 

 spells The plants should be staked during the flowering season. 



Propagation Seeds and division of the plant. Anchusas self- 

 sow very readily. The roots are very juicy and brittle so that when 

 the plants are dug, they are frequently broken. Each root allowed to 

 remain in the soil will produce a new plant. 



