246 BULBS AND TUBEKOUS-ROOTED PLANTS. 



sickly smell. This species is sometimes called Onion 

 Lily, an 4 is a favorite with the Chinese, who grow it in 

 the same manner as the Sacred Lily. It is remarkably 

 tenacious of life ; it will grow in soil, or out ; hang it 

 up against a wall in a dry room, and it will flower as 

 well there as anywhere ; or, if planted in the border, it 

 will endure our winters, if slightly protected. 



O. thyrsoides. This species and its varieties have 

 rather pleasing flowers, some yellow of different shades, 

 and others pure white with a dark center, all distinct, 

 and pleasing objects in the greenhouse, where they must 

 be grown. 



O. umbellatum (The Common Star of Bethlehem). 

 Although one of our prettiest early summer flowers, its 

 dissemination should be avoided, as it is sure to assume 

 the mastery over every other form of vegetation when it 

 once gets started. If this species could be confined 

 within reasonable limits, its presence in the garden 

 would be most desirable. The remain ing species do not 

 merit description. 



OVEIDA. 

 See Lapeyrousia, Page 169. 



OXALIS. 



This is an extensive genus, the species differing 

 widely in habit and form, and requiring various methods 

 of culture. The genus contains annuals, perennials and 

 bulbous plants ; the latter, only, shall we mention. Of 

 these there are several species of great value, as border 

 plants for edgings, and for winter blooming in the con- 

 servatory or window garden. 



O. Bowiei. One of the most desirable species. 

 The flowers are dark rose, produced in umbels, continu- 

 ously either throughout the summer or winter, according 

 as the bulbs have been treated. Like most other bulbs, 



