GAGEA GALAKTSUS. 95 



yellow, of both single and double forms, on the top of a 

 naked flower-stem, and over them is a crown of leaves, 

 making it one of the most beautiful objects in the gar- 

 den. The flowers precede those of the hyacinth, which 

 adds to their many attractions (See Engraving, Page 93). 

 While all the species are objects of interest in the garden, 

 those described above fully represent the genus. 



GAGEA. 



A considerable genus of half-hardy bulbs, allied to 

 the Tulip. The flowers are yellow, produced in umbels 

 on short stems, and appear about the same time as th,e 

 Crocus. They are, practically, of no use in this country, 

 not being sufficiently hardy for open air culture, and not 

 worthy a place in the greenhouse. 



GALAXTHUS. 



Snowdrop. 



These elegant little flowers, the first to open in 

 spring, should be found in every garden, not only 

 because they are the earliest spring flower, but because 

 they are the loveliest. It is not an uncommon thing to 

 have Snowdrops in flower in February, at least two weeks 

 ahead of the Crocus, particularly if planted in some 

 well-protected sunny border, a place where they should 

 always be found. The Snowdrop thrives in almost any 

 situation or soil ; it will live and bloom anywhere, sur- 

 viving more hard treatment than any other plant, 

 excepting grass, yet there are but few flowers that more 

 highly appreciate good care and culture. The bulbs 

 should be planted as early in the autumn as they can be 

 secured, as they suffer much if left long out of ground. 

 They should be planted in small clumps and left to C;TO 

 for themselves, which they will do, whether planted in 

 sun or shade, under the trees or in the grass; in fact, 

 where anything wiU grow the Snowdrop will thrive. By 



