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CREEPERS 



CREEPERS. 



In the tropics, there is generally a lack of ornamental creepers. 

 The Ivy, which forms so delightful an adornment to gardens and 

 houses in temperate countries, does not thrive in tropical regions, 

 even at the higher elevations. Yet few buildings, whether bungalows, 



Ficrs PUMILA. A good substitute for Ivy in the Tropics. 



stores, churches, etc., which would not be greatly improved in 

 appearance by the growth of a suitable creeper over their walls, more 

 especially in situations which are exposed to the glare of the 

 tropical sun. Ficns piiinila (better known as F. repens) answers 

 this purpose remarkably well, as may be seen from the accom- 

 panying illustration. The plant thrives at all elevations, is ever- 

 green, a quick-grower, and readily increased by cuttings, which 

 may be planted /// situ. It occasionally bears large green oval 

 fruits, which are not edible. The following are a selection of 

 creepers suitable for pots, tree trunks, etc.: 



