sphagnum moss about them, the plants being placed in a warm house, but where 
they can be carefully shaded from the hot sun. Their foliage, being thin of texture, 
would get injured if too much exposed to direct sunshine. The atmosphere of the 
Kast India house we find suits the requirements of the plants in the way of climate. 
We have seen them thrive well in pots for a certain time, but baskets undoubtedly 
suit them better, provided they are grown in charcoal and a little rough fibrous peat 
on sphagnum moss; they must, however, be well elevated, in order that the water 
may pass away without becoming stagnant about them, for if stagnant moisture is 
allowed to accumulate about them. it invites failure in this particular class of 
plants—the Orchids—as well as in many others. They will require all the care 
that can be bestowed upon them. 
The specimen froma which our illustration was sketched was taken from a well- 
grown plant in the fine collection of Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., M.P., of Burford 
Lodge, Dorking. The plant is of evergreen habit, and has lively green foliage ; 
the flower scapes, which proceed from the axils of the leaves on opposite sides, and 
bear enormous flowers, have the sepals and petals of a rich chestnut-brown, white 
at the base, the surface taking on a tesselated appearance from the peculiar nature 
of the venation; and the lip is trowel-shaped, of a dark chestnut-brown, reticulated 
with blackish purple. The blossoms last a long time in perfection. It is a native 
of Costa Rica, where the temperature is high at some parts of the year, and also 
very moist. 
These plants are propagated by dividing them just as they start to grow. 
Two stems or fascicles should be left at the back of the young growth. Insects 
should be well looked after, for if left too long on the plants serious damage will 
follow. 
