THE SCILLA. 87 



Scilla Siberica is one of the most beautiful ; and no 

 word can convey an idea of the brilliant blue of the blos- 

 soms. 



Scillas are well adapted for growth in pots, in earth or 

 sand, and only require to be planted in November, kept ill 

 a dark, cool place until they have made plenty of roots, 

 and then gradually inured to light and heat. They look 

 better in pans than in pots ; and the bulbs should be planted 

 about an inch deep, and about the same distance from each 

 other every way. 



The principal varieties are 



SCILLA SIBERICA. This species is one of the hardiest 

 and best. As its name implies, it is a native of Siberia. 

 The flowers are brilliant, intense blue, and produced, one to 

 four, on a short spike. 



SCILLA PR^COX. This species has flowers of the same 

 brilliant blue color as the last. It is a native .of Germany, 

 and more tender than S. Siberica. It was introduced in 

 1790, but is not common. 



SCILLA CERNUA. This species bears a great resem- 

 blance to the English harebell (Hyacinthus, Scilla, or My- 

 ogalum, non scriptus), but differs slightly botanically. It 

 is a native of Spain, and has been long in cultivation. The 



