being C. Lowianum, C. gigantewm, and C. elegans; these are well managed 
by Mr. Fraser, the energetic gardener who has the care of this collection of 
Orchids. C. giganteum is a plant of noble mien, with persistent, two-ranked 
sword-shaped leaves, which become dilated at the base, and _ closely sheath 
the oblong pseudobulbs; the leaves grow some three feet or more long, are grace- 
fully arched, leathery in texture, and deep green in colour. The spike proceeds 
from the base of the mature growth, and is from two to three feet long, bearing 
a many-flowered raceme of fragrant flowers, becoming pendulous by the weight 
of the blooms. The sepals and petals are yellowish green, streaked with purple, 
whilst the lip is yellow, densly spotted round the margin with bright crimson. 
Flowering during the winter months this species is doubly valuable for decorative 
purposes, especially as its. blossoms continue in beauty for a considerable time if 
kept free from damp. 
This Cymbidium is a plant easily cultivated, but being one which produces a 
great quantity of stout fleshy roots, ample pot-room is necessary to accommodate it. The 
soil for this plant should consist of turfy loam and a little sharp sand, to which 
may be added some potsherds or nodules of charcoal; the soil from an old pasture 
where cattle have grazed, and which has been undisturbed for some years, will suit 
it admirably. Thorough drainage is essential, and, in potting, the crown of the 
plant should be kept down below the rim of the pot (and not elevated), in order 
to allow of a good supply of water reaching its roots; some potsherds should 
also be introduced with the soil to keep it open, and it should be pressed 
down moderately firm. During the time of growth water freely, but do not let 
the soil become soddened or sour, or the roots will quickly decay; when growth is 
finished, just enough water to keep the bulbs and leaves in a healthy condition is 
all they require. Cymbidiums enjoy strong heat during the summer months, which 
is their season of growth, but during winter a temperature ranging from 50° to 55° 
is all that is requisite for their well-being; strong light is essential, but they must be 
shaded from the sun during the hottest part.of the day; treated in this manner 
they are sure to maintain bold handsome foliage and produce abundance of flower. 
Where it is desirable to have numerous plants, Cymbidiums may be increased by 
division, which should be effected just when the new growth begins to start. 
