14 Subtropical Gardening. 



this, although not very large, forms an agreeable and distinct object, 

 and is very well calculated for producing a striking effect among 

 dwarf bedding and edging plants. It should, however, be placed 

 singly, and among veiy dwarf things, such as Sedum, Sempervivum, 

 and its dwarf relative E. secunda. So arranged, it was very beauti- 

 fully seen at Battersea last year ; also charmingly done by Mr. 

 Roger, at Bury Hill, Taplow j and even so far north as Osberton, 

 Notts, by Mr. Bennett. It may be propagated by the leaves or by 

 cuttings, and requires a dry greenhouse shelf in the winter. Light 

 sandy earth, not of necessity very poor, will suit it best in the 

 open air. 



FERDINANDA EMINENS. This is one of the tallest and noblest 

 subtropical plants, growing well in the southern and midland 

 counties : wherever it is supplied with rich soil and abundant 

 moisture. It is also very much the better of being sheltered, and 

 so are all large and soft-leaved plants. Where the soil is rich, deep, 

 and humid, and the position warm, it attains great dimensions, 

 sometimes growing over twelve feet, and suspending immense pairs 

 of opposite leaves. It will in all cases form a capital companion to 

 the Castor-oil plant, and though it may not be grown with such 

 ease as that in all parts, it should be in every collection, growing 

 quite as well in the south of England as in the neighbourhood of 

 Paris. It requires to be planted out in a young state, and grows 

 freely from cuttings. Greenhouse treatment will do in winter. It 

 is better to keep a stock in pots through the summer to afford 

 cuttings, though the old ones may be used for that purpose. 



Ficus ELASTICA (Indiaruller Plant}. Another fine old plant, 

 for which we have lately found a new use. It is one of those 

 valuable leathery-leaved things that are useful in hothouse, drawing- 

 room, or flower garden. It not only exists in the open air in 

 summer in good health, but makes a good growth under the in- 

 fluence of our weak northern sun. Never assuming the imposing 

 proportions of other plants mentioned here, it is best adapted for 



