THE MUSCARI. 235 



cum. The flower resembles a yellow crocus, and is pro- 

 duced in October ; the foliage continuing to grow during 

 the winter. 



In England it is hardy, and contrasts well with beds of 

 colchicum ; but it does not stand our winters, and there- 

 fore must be grown in a pot in the greenhouse. Soil, 

 common loam. 



The species is 0. luteus, a native of Tangiers ; and there 

 is a variety with narrow leaves. 



THE MUSCARI. 



These plants, commonly known as musk or grape hya- 

 cinths, are common in every garden. They require no 

 particular culture, and increase and flower well year after 

 year. As they are rather dwarf, they should be planted in 

 the front of the flower-border. They propagate freely by 

 offsets or seeds. 



M. moschatum. This, the common musk-hyacinth, is 

 readily known by the strong smell of musk. The flowers 

 are purple when they expand, but gradually become 

 yellowish. A native of Turkey. 



M. macrocarpum. A more showy plant than the last, 

 and easily known by its large size and brilliant colors. 



M. comosum. The well-known tufted hyacinth, of easy 



