MISCELLA^v'EOUS EXHIBITION PLANTS. 95 



it is wanted for exhibition. When fairly started, it should be 

 grown in a frame or airy position in the greenhouse, and to 

 have it in fine condition for the show, pinch and regulate the 

 shoots to make a well-filled pyramid, and supply the roots 

 with weak liquid manure to give breadth and substance to the 

 leaves. The points of merit are : (1.) Size and symmetry of the 

 specimen ; (2. ) breadth, thickness, and health of the leaves. 



ASPIDISTRA. 



The Aspidistra lurida variegata is also eminently adapted 

 for culture as an exhibition plant by the amateur, and, like 

 the Sweet Verbena, it is often met with in fine condition in 

 the cottagers' windows. It even takes a high place, when 

 well-coloured, in any collection of greenhouse foUage plants, 

 and for general usefulness in house decoration it has few 

 equals. It is easily increased by division of the plant, and 

 should be potted in a mixtui'e of rough loam and peat, with 

 some charcoal and bits of sandstone. Shift into larger pots as 

 required without disturbing the roots, and give plenty of water 

 in summer, with a little liquid manure to assist in developing 

 the foliage to its full size, care being taken not to overdo it 

 to spoil the variegation. Shade from strong sun, and give 

 enough water in winter to keep the leaves and roots healthy. 



The points of merit are: (1.) Size, health, and vigour of 

 the plant : (2.) size and colour of the leaves, which should be 

 without blemish and the variegation pure. 



AURICULA. 



The Auricula, Primula Auricula, or Bear's Ear, better known 

 in Scotland as the " Dusty Miller," has again become a very 

 popular plant, after suffering neglect for a considerable period. 

 Florists arrange them into Alpine and Stage Auriculas, and 

 the latter are divided into Green-edged, Grey-edged, White- 

 edged, and Selfs. 



The following are some of the best varieties for competition 

 in each class : — 



Alpine. — A. F. Barron, Colonel Soott, Evening Star, Mrs. Dodwell, 

 Sailor Prince, and Triumphant. 



