66 ALPINE FLOWERS [PART I. 



and European waters, a very long list might be made, but the 

 recommendation of those which possess no distinct character 

 or no beauty of flower is what I wish to avoid, believing that it 

 is only by a selection of the best kinds that planting of this 

 kind can give satisfaction ; therefore, omitting a host of incon- 

 spicuous water-weeds, I will endeavour to indicate all others of 

 real worth. 



Those who have seen the flowering Eush (Butomus umbel- 

 latus) in flower are not likely to omit it from a collection of 

 water-plants, as it is pretty and distinct. Plant it not far from 

 the margin, as it likes rich muddy soil. The common Sagittaria, 

 very frequent in England and Ireland, but not in Scotland, 

 might be associated with this ; but there is a very much finer 

 double exotic kind to be had here and there, which is really a 

 handsome plant, its flowers being white, and resembling, but 

 larger than, those of the old white double Eocket. Calla palus- 

 tris is a beautiful bog-plant, and I know nothing that produces 

 a prettier effect over rich mud ground. Calla cethiopica, the 

 well-known and beautiful " Lily of the Nile," is hardy enough 

 in some places if planted rather deep, and in nearly all it may 

 be stood out for the summer ; but except in quiet waters, in the 

 South of England and Ireland, will not thrive. The pine- 

 like Water Soldier (Stratiotes aloides) is so distinct that it is 

 worthy of a place ; there is a pond quite full of this plant at 

 Tooting, and it is common in the fens. It is allied to the 

 Frogbit (Hydrocharis Morsus-rance), which, like the species of 

 Water Eanunculi and some other fast-growing and fast-dis- 

 appearing families, I must not here particularise ; they cannot 

 be " established " permanently in one spot like the other plants 

 mentioned. The tufted Loosestrife (Lysimachia tkyrsiflora) 

 flourishes on wet banks and ditches, and in a foot or two of 

 water. It is curiously beautiful when in flower. Pontederia 

 cordata is a stout and hardy water-herb, with distinct habit, 

 and blue flowers. There is a small Sweet-flag (Acorus gramineus) 

 which is worth a place, and has also a well- variegated variety, 

 while the common Acorus, or Sweet-flag, will be associated with 

 the Water Iris (/. Pseud-acorus), and the pretty Alisma ranun- 



