THE GOLDFISH AND ITS CULTURE, 47 
the tints and colors so varied that endless combinations in 
their grouping are possible. 
Nearly all of our native water-plants are annuals or decid- 
uous in character. Their growth being restricted to the sum- 
mer season, we rely therefore principally on the cultivated 
tropical and sub-tropical species, and more especially so during 
the winter. 
I describe here only those species that by their merits 
recommend themselves most for our special purpose. 
THE COMMON HORN OR WAXWORT. 
(Ceratophylluim demersum ) 
The general appearance of this plant is like a branch of 
spruce under water. The dark green, needle-like leaflets are 
horny or waxy to the touch; 4 to $ inch long, and arranged 
in whorls around the stem; the new shoots are, when they first 
appear, bright green and very effective when the old growth 
forms the background. 
Altogether it is a very attractive plant, but, being a native 
of the northern section of this country and Europe, it is dor- 
mant during winter and only of decorative value at that period. 
THE ROSY HORNWORT. 
(C. roseum ) 
The leaves of this species are longer than those of the pre- 
ceding ; they are dark chestnut brown and the young shoots 
of a brilliant rosy color. This is a very desirable, sub-tropical, 
evergreen plant which I introduced from Florida in 1880, 
