THE SPARAXIS. 153 



the supply of water should be increased until the flowering 

 season is over, when the bulbs should be gradually allowed 

 to go to rest. There are varieties with red, white, and 

 purple flowers. 



S, versicolor. — A species somewhat resembling the last; 

 the ground-color of the flowers, however, being crimson 

 instead of orange. It is also hardier, as in England it 

 stands the winter in the garden. 



S. f/randijlora. — This species has from one to five flow- 

 ers, purple inside, and whitish outside. There are two 

 varieties, — Uliago, by some considered a species ; and stria^ 

 ta, the former with white and the latter with variegated 

 flowers. 



All flower in spring, and require the same treatment as 

 the other species. 



S. pendala. — This elegant species produces long, droop- 

 ing spikes of purple flowers. In growth and habit, it is un- 

 like all the other species. The spike is often four or five 

 feet long, springing from a tuft of long, reedy leaves. The 

 plant is a native of wet situations, and does best planted 

 out in the greenhouse, and allowed to take care of itself. 

 We have, however, grown it successfully in a pot, using a 

 compost of turfy loam and sand. 



