THE GLADIOLUS. 181 



iiig in June and July, we may enumerate a few ; only 

 premising, that, in pot-culture, the gladiolus requires a 

 rather large pot, with light, rich soil, good drainage, and 

 plenty of water when in growth, with frequent syringings 

 and spongings to keep off the red spider, which particularly 

 infests this plant. The bulbs should be planted at least 

 three inches deep, if of large size, as the new bulb is formed 

 on top of the old one ; and the plants should have a light, 

 airy position, to prevent them from becoming drawn. 



G. cardinalis. A common but very handsome species, 

 with scarlet flowers, marked with a white spot on each petal. 

 From this species many fine varieties have been raised, as it 

 hybridizes freely with many of the tender kinds. Both 

 species and varieties are very desirable. 



G. cochleatus. A curious species, with stiff leaves, and 

 white flowers stained with red, and having a peculiarly spoon- 

 shaped lip ; whence the name. A native of the Cape, flower- 

 ing in March, but not common. 



G. versicolor. A showy plant, the colors of which are 

 said to Change at sunset. It is a native of the Cape, and 

 rather rare in collections. 



G. suavolens. A pretty species, of dwarf growth, with 

 pale-yellow, fragrant flowers. 



