SEPTEMBER, 1923.| THE ORCHID REVIEW. 273 
these plants, namely that most growers are in the habit of re-potting too 
early in the season. These plants are not re-potted at Slough until early in 
March, for it is not until then that root-growth commences, Plants that 
are re-potted earlier (and the beginning of January is often recommended). 
stand much danger of losing their roots. Besides, even if the plant does. 
not lose its roots it is more likely to lose than gain by this shift im 
November, and the new compost will be two months old before it is 
wanted. A second shift is given to vigorous seedlings in July, and the 
plants give a ready response when given fresh compost at this season. 
- Space does not permit of describing the Odontoglossums and Odontiodas, 
a large number of which are cultivated, as also are Disas and their hybrids. 
Records of most of the best productions of this firm are preserved in 
paintings by well-known artists. In concluding these comparatively brief 
remarks, we should like to state that Messrs. Flory & Black export 
numerous plants to all parts of the world, and judging by the excellent 
testimonials received, many of which we have read, their customers are 
thoroughly satisfied with the plants sent out and the healthy condition in 
which they arrive. 
PERISTERIAS.—The members of this genus are characterised by stout 
pseudo-bulbs, from the base of which the flower spikes are produced. The 
leaves are large, broad, and plicate, while the fleshy flowers are almost 
globular in shape, the column bearing two large fleshy wings. They are 
natives of Central America, and under cultivation require a fairly light 
place in the intermediate house. The plants should be potted in fibrous 
loam, with a little leaf-mould, and some coarse fibre to keep the mixture 
porous. When growth is active the water supply should be well maintained, 
but at other times the compost should be allowed to remain somewhat 
drier. The best known species of the genus is P. elata, commonly called 
the Dove Orchid. 
+> + 
MAXILLARIA GRACILIS.—Concerning this Brazilian species, Loddiges in 
1832 remarked :——‘‘ This curious little plant is a native of Brazil; it is very 
slender in its habit, and does not exceed the height of four inches. With 
Us it flowered in the month of August, in the stove, which is constantly 
necessary for its preservation. It may sometimes be separated for increase, 
and should he potted in moss, vegetable earth, and small pieces of broken 
pots.” The plant grows ina neat little tuft, the two-leaved bulbs being 
less than an inch long. The flowers are light yellow, with the midrib and 
Margins of the sepals reddish, a few purple spots on the lip, and some 
reddish stripes on the face of the column. It is a miniature species of the 
M. picta group. 
