HARDY PERENNIAL PLANTS 217 



botanies as Aruncus, is a variable species; the plant found in the 

 Eastern States seems much more dwarf than the one commonly 

 cultivated in European gardens. To grow this plant to best ad- 

 vantage it should be given an isolated position. It usually attains 

 a height of from 3 to 6 feet, according to variety. 5. astilboides is 

 often listed as Astilbe, and is dwarf er than the above named ; flowers 

 white, borne in dense panicles. 5. filipendula is a valuable rock- 

 work plant, the finely cut leaves remaining green all the year round. 

 The flowers, especially those of the double variety, are showy. S. 

 palmata is without question one of the handsomest flowered herba- 

 ceous plants in cultivation, but unfortunately other worthless kinds 

 are often sold for it. The flowers are bright crimson, in large panicles ; 

 the leaves are palmately five- to seven-lobed. S. ulmaria (Queen of 

 the Meadow) has creamy white, very fragrant flowers. 5. filipen- 

 dula and 5. ulmaria are also listed sometimes under Filipendula. 

 The plant grows from 2 to 4 feet high, and, like all of the others, it 

 dehghts in damp soil, with partial shade during midday. 

 Propagation. They are all best increased by division. 



STACK YS (Hedge Nettle). 5. lanata is a valuable plant for 

 hot, dry situations and for planting under trees. The flowers may 

 be cut off as they make their appearance, as it is the foliage which is 

 the most ornamental. The leaves are covered with a wood-like sub- 

 stance, imparting a whitish appearance to the plant. When wild 

 it is often found in moist places. 



Propagation. Increased by division at almost any time in 

 Spring. 



STATICE (Sea Lavender). Several species do well here as 

 border plants. They need sandy soil with a little peat or leaf soil 

 added. 5. elala, S. eximia, S. tatarica angustifolia and 5. latifolia 

 are all good kinds. The flowers are often scarious and may be 

 treated as Everlastings. The plants are easy to grow, remaining 

 for some years when well established, rooting deep. 



Propagation. They are raised from seeds. 



STOKESIA (Stokes' Aster). S. cyanea is said to be found in 

 a wild state only in South Carohna and Georgia. Fortunately, this 

 splendid composite is not difficult to cultivate and produces seed 

 in abundance. This comparatively rare plant will evidently not 

 stand coddling; it seems to like ordinary field conditions. We ought 

 to have more of this charming native in our gardens, as it is one of 

 the really handsome things. 



