May, 1922.] THE ORCHID REVIEW. 147 
A second consignment of these pretty flowers include five spikes of 
Ophrys arachnitiformis. Some doubt has been placed upon the true nature 
of this plant by various authorities, as it shows much variation when in a 
wild state. Mons. Denis self-fertilised it, and although in the resulting 
seedlings some variation is shown, it is not more than occurs with plants- 
that have arisen naturally. Hence he believes that it is a true species and 
nota hybrid. Mr. W.H. St. Quintin has stated (Orchid World, vi., 99) :— 
“T think anyone who has spent much time ina district where this plant 
occurs will have come to the conclusion that it is a good species, though a 
local one, and showing much variation.” | 
O. balarucensis (lutea major X aranifera) is represented by seven robust 
spikes with yellowish-green flowers having reddish brown on the labellum. 
O. pseudofusca (fusca X aranifera) is somewhat similar to the preceding, 
as one would expect from the parentage. O. Battandieri (fusca x lutea) is- 
apparently not fully developed, but it gives promise of finer results. In O..- 
quadruplospuria (Gramps x Macchiattii), a taller spike is seen and with 
darker flowers. 
Regarding a fine example of Ophrys fuilay, M. Denis gives the parents- 
as Grampinii X aranifera, and says that Mr. Rolfe was in error in stating- 
them to be Grampinii and bombyliflora. 
M. Denis also sends two good examples of Orchis lactea, a species as 
rare as it is difficult to cultivate. He obtained them from Garons, near 
Nimes, and the spikes bear numerous milk-coloured and rose-tinted flowers, - 
the lateral sepals marked with three dark lines. 
ae 
SOPHRONITIS GRANDIFLORA.—This pretty Brazillian species is of dwarf 
habit, seldom exceeding three inches in height, and the small pseudobulbs 
bear a single leaf. The flowers are brilliant scarlet and very effective. It 
is best cultivated in shallow pans with a compost of fine fibre, sphagnum: 
moss and a few chopped leaves, and suspended in the cool house. A moist 
Condition should be maintained throughout the whole year, slightly less 
water being given when not in active growth. 
+04 
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