CHAPTER X. 



Phloxes. 



Those magnificent ornaments of the border, the 

 herbaceous or half -shrubby (" suffruticose *') Phloxes, 

 are hardly more valuable for the purpose they fulfil 

 than the dwarf Alpine species are for the rockery. 

 These plants are all distinguished by profusion of bloom 

 and brilliant colours. They are not fastidious as to 

 soil, and they are easily increased by division between 

 autumn and spring, or by cuttings inserted in gritty 

 soil under glass, in early summer. This reduces culture 

 to simple proportions and suggests that whoever has a 

 rockery may expect to succeed with the Phloxes. 



They will flourish on the limestone, and may be used 

 for walls. They do not care for cold, heavy soil, and 

 damp shady places. Well-drained soil and sunshine 

 are their principal requirements, and these can be 

 provided in most cases. The annual Phloxes, varieties 

 of Drummondiiy are, of course, excellent plants for 

 summer beds and borders, rivalling Verbenas. 

 The following are some of the best Alpine Phloxes : 

 Amoena. A most charming spring or early summer 

 plant, bearing umbels of pretty rosy flowers at a height 

 of about six inches ; it is absolutely hardy and will 

 thrive in dry places. There is a variety with variegated 

 foHage. 



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