150 STOVE PLANTS. 



M. cmabilis. — In habit of growth this species resembles 

 M. magnifica, but is distinct from that species in having erect 

 pyramidal panicles of flowers of a rosy peach colour. Native 

 of Java. 



M. magnifica. — This truly magnificent plant is very orna- 

 mental, even when not in flower. The leaves are opposite, 

 broadly ovate, about eight or ten inches long, smooth and 

 rich shining dark green in colour. The flowers are borne in 

 very large terminal pendulous racemes, and are of a rosy pink 

 colour, and continuing a long time in perfection. It usually 

 blooms about May, but as the spikes are produced from the 

 ripened wood of the previous year, it can be retarded by 

 keeping it cool till late in spring. A fine plant for exhibition. 



M. Sieholdiana. — A fine winter-flowering kind. The leaves 

 are oblong, tapering to each end, fleshy, and three-nerved. 

 The panicles are erect, bearing white flowers, with purple 

 stamens, which give it a very handsome appearance. It can 

 be had in bloom at various times in the year. Native of 

 Java. 



MONOOH^TUM. 



This genus belongs to the large order Melastomacea, and 

 requires an intermediate house. The species are easily grown, 

 and make handsome little bushes. The soil best adapted for 

 them is two parts good fibrous peat, one part light loam, and 

 one part leaf mould. Some of the species or varieties are 

 winter and early spring flowerers, and for that reason are 

 especially valuable. 



M. dicrananthenm. — This is a very desirable species. 

 The leaves are opposite, ovate-lanceolate, and of a dark 

 green colour. The flowers are numerous, and bright rose 

 colour. Native of Quito. 



M. ensiferum. — This is one of the most useful for decora- 



