ON ORCHIDS. 



539 



in perfection after expanding its flowers. The lovely D. formosum 

 giganteum (Fig. 370) is one of the most beautiful and useful 

 Orchids in cultivation, and its exquisite large white and yellow 

 flowers being produced in the late summer and autumn months 



Fig. 



7 1 . — Dendrobium thyrsiflorum. 



(when flowers of all description are scarce) adds further to its value. 

 It requires highly humid and hot conditions during the period of 

 growth, with the full benefit of the sun's rays. A fig or forcing- 

 house suits it admirably. It should be suspended near the roof-glass. 



The evergreen section, to which D. thyrsiflorum (Fig. 371) 

 belongs, is a lovely one, and may be grown under similar con- 

 ditions to those suggested for trie deciduous section, with the 

 exception that a little more warmth must be afforded during the 

 resting period, or the foliage is liable to become spotted. There 

 are numerous interesting varieties which flower through the 

 summer months, and these are worthy of every consideration. 



Renanthera. — Owing to its shy-flowering qualities, this genus 

 is not grown to any great extent. There are only three species 

 which merit attention : R. coccinea, R. Storiei, and the dwarf- 

 growing R. Imschootiana. These should be grown under similar 

 conditions to those advised for Dendrobium, as they require 

 strong light to flower satisfactorily. 



Peristeria and Phaius. — I have coupled these two genera 

 as they require practically similar treatment. With the exception 

 of Phaius tuberculosus, all are suitable for ordinary stove culture. 

 The potting compost should consist of good fibrous peat and 

 sphagnum, to which may be added a liberal mixture of turfy 



