CEREUS. 



45 



C. variabilis. 



Stems rather straggling and branching freely, usually four- 

 winged, constricted as in Phylloeactus, spiny along the edges. 

 Mowers large, showy, tube 6 inches long, smooth, fleshy, with a 

 few scales near the top ; sepals greenish, strap- shaped, pointed ; 



Tig. 19. -Cere us repandun. 



petals spreading, with toothed margins and a long acute point, 

 white or cream-coloured. Common in some parts of South America 

 and the West Indies ; always near the sea. Flowers in July, opening 

 in the evening and closing before noon the following day. K 

 requires tropical treatment. There are some old plants of it in the 

 ivew collection, where they flower annually. 



