2IO PLANT CULTURE 



P. divaricata. The well-known and deservedly popular herbaceous 

 Phloxes are divided into two sections, early and late flowering. 

 The first or early blooming section is known as P. suffruticosa, 

 being varieties oi P. glaherrima suffruticosa. The late blooming sec- 

 tion is known as P. decussata, and among the species which have con- 

 tributed varieties are P. maculata and P. paniculata. The varieties 

 are exceedingly numerous. In recent years some very beautiful 

 forms have been sent out. They stand well as cut flowers. The 

 plants should be lifted, divided and replanted every second year, 

 as when they remain long without removal the panicles are small. 

 Early in March is the best time for the operation. The growths will 

 be much improved by a heavy mulching of manure about the crowns 

 during the growing season. 



Propagation Cuttings may be taken from the plants as they 

 start into growth and rooted in a temperature suitable for Carna- 

 tion cuttings; also by division and root cuttings. Seeds give new and 

 interesting forms. 



PHYGELIUS (Cape Fuchsia). P. capensis is hardy in places 

 where the mercury does not fall lower than lo degrees F. It endives 

 the heat better than Geraniums. The trouble with this desirable 

 plant is that it continues to grow during the Autumn months instead 

 of going to rest. It can be planted as far north as Philadelphia if 

 protected. It can be wintered in a coldframe. 



Propagation. By seeds or cuttings. These cuttings should be 

 taken from the Autumn growth of outdoor plants. 



PHYSALIS. P. Franchelii, the Chinese Lantern Plant, is a 



most showy and striking plant. It has a red-colored calyx enclosing 

 a large berry of the same color. The high colors do not develop 

 until the fruit is ripe. They should be given a warm, sunny 

 exposure. 



Propagation. By seeds sown indoors and forwarded to the 

 open ground; also by cuttings. 



PLATYCODON. P- grandiflorum (Chinese Bell Flower) is an 

 erect growing plant, with flowers resembling those of the Cam- 

 panula. P. g. Mariesii is a variety of dwarfer habit, and bears 

 larger flowers. The roots are thick and fleshy. The Platycodon re- 

 quires a medium sand loam and does not succeed in either extremely 

 stiff or sand soils. In the Fall the old stems should not be cut away, 

 but be allowed to die away naturally; otherwise the crown may be 

 injured. 



