LYCHNIS. 233 



The double-flowered variety of the Common Meadow 

 Lychnis is often cultivated for the beauty of the flowers. 

 The single flowers are very common in our hedges, which 

 are sometimes absolutely illuminated by them, in May, 

 June, and July. They are generally known by the name 

 of Rose-campion, but have a variety of other names ; as 

 Meadow-pink, Wild-william, Crow-flower, Cuckoo-flower, 

 Ragged-robin, March-gilliflowers, Wild-campion, Meadow- 

 campion, Gardener's-delight, or Gardener's-eye. This 

 species may be increased by slipping the roots in autumn. 

 They are of a bright rose-colour ; sometimes white. 



The Scarlet Lychnis has also many names ; as, indeed, 

 have most of the species. It is called by the old writers 

 Flower of Constantinople ; Flower of Bristow ; Campion 

 of Constantinople; and Nonesuch. The French call it 

 croix de Jerusalem ; croix de Maltha ; Jleur de Constan- 

 tinople: the Italians, croce di Cavalieri: the Spaniards, 

 cruces de Jerusalem : and the Portuguese, cruz de Malta. 



The Wild Lychnis, also called Wild Campion, of which 

 the double-flowered varieties, both red and white, are 

 known in gardens by the name of Bachelor's-buttons, are 

 very ornamental, continue long in flower, and blow at the 

 same time with the Meadow Lychnis. This is increased 

 in the same manner: the roots must be removed and 

 parted every year. This kind, also, is sometimes called 

 Rose-campion ; but the true Rose-campion is a species of 

 Agrostemma. 



They may be kept moderately moist. 



The Scarlet Lychnis is increased by cuttings, which, 

 however, are very uncertain, and frequently fail. The 

 cuttings should be taken from the young side-shoots, 

 without flowers. They should have three or four joints, 

 and be inserted to a depth half-way between the second 

 and third. A hand-glass will facilitate their rooting. 



