316 STUDIES IN GARDENING 



If the present writer were allowed to grow only 

 one rock plant, he would without hesitation choose 

 Lithospermum prostratum. It has only two faults 

 — namely, that it will not endure lime in the soil 

 and that it is not easy to propagate. Otherwise it is 

 as perfect as a plant can be. It is a small shrub, quite 

 prostrate in its growth, and for some months of spring 

 and early summer covered with brilliant blue flowers, 

 while it often bears again, though more sparsely, in 

 the autumn. It is always described in books as quite 

 easy to grow. Yet one often sees poor plants of it 

 even in pretentious rock gardens. The reason is that 

 gardeners often will not give it what it wants. Its 

 wants are well known, and, except on limy soils, easily 

 supplied — but they must be supphed if it is to thrive. 

 It will do well either on the north or the south side of 

 the rock garden; but does not like too hot a place or 

 too poor a soil. It roots very deeply, and should be 

 planted in at least 2 ft. of good fibrous soil and leaf- 

 mould, and placed so that its roots can rim under a 

 large rock. Also it should never be disturbed, and if 

 possible it should be sheltered from easterly winds, 

 which often damage it in winter and early spring. 

 When it is well grown it spreads into a bush several 

 feet across, and in flower is almost as brilliant as any 

 gentian. It must be propagated by cuttings, which 

 are sometimes difficult to strike. These are usually 

 taken after it has flowered, and consist of fresh growth 

 with a little of the old wood, but good healthy shoots 

 taken in April will often root better. 



