% 
the stem when it is making its growth. The individual blossoms are as much as 
five inches across, and are well expanded, the sepals and petals being of a bright 
but delicate rose colour, and the lip white at the base, the front and side lobes 
rich magenta-crimson, the disk and interior of the tube being of a bright golden 
yellow. The plant continues in blossom for three or four weeks if the flowers are 
kept from damp; indeed, all Cattleya blooms retain their freshness for a longer 
period if kept dry, especially the large light-flowered forms of C. Mossie, C. Triane, 
C. Mendelii, &c., which soon become spotted if the atmosphere surrounding them 
is much charged with moisture. 
Cattleya superba is not in general well cultivated, but we have seen some 
specimens which were grown with extraordinary skill and success in the select 
collection of O. Schneider, Esq., of Cromwell Grange, Fallowfield, near Manchester. 
These specimens, as many as nine in number, were suspended in baskets from the 
roof of the warm house. They were grown from imported plants, and we have 
noticed them in the same position growing and blooming freely for the past three 
years, and, as they succeed so well, we should certainly recommend their being 
retained in the same situation. It is a golden rule for cultivators that when a 
particular kind of plant is found to thrive in a certain position, it should be kept 
there, so long at least as the conditions are suitable. In the instance just referred 
to the plants were suspended close to the glass, where they enjoyed a_ great 
abundance of light, and this was possibly the secret of their success. Other 
important considerations are that the plants do not like to be disturbed and will not 
bear cutting up. 
It is necessary at all times to keep sweet healthy material about the roots by 
removing the old effete soil and replacing it by that which is fresh and sound. 
We find rough fibrous peat and charcoal to suit iby but this must be accompanied by 
good drainage. We have seen them thrive well on blocks of wood, but when grown 
in this way they require more water. If cultivated in baskets they also need a 
good supply during the season of growth. In winter less will suffice, merely enough 
being given to keep the bulbs in a plump condition. As soon as they show signs 
of growth, more water should be given, but it is necessary to avoid wetting the 
young growths, as this often causes them to damp off, and when this is the case 
the succeeding growth will be weakly and unable to develop blossoms. 
The plants should be kept free from insects; sometimes thrips will attack the 
young growths, but it should be speedily removed, as, if allowed to remain, it will 
soon make great havoc. 
