ON PITCHER AND INSECTIVOROUS PLANTS. 637 



the insect is dead irritation ceases and the apical lobe assumes 

 its normal proportions, spreading its sides ready to entrap the 

 next insect that may come in contact with its central bristles. 



Of the carnivorous character of this and the so-called insect- 

 absorbing plants, my experience, derived from close observation 

 of the Dionaea and others of this section, is such that I must 

 draw a distinct line between the term <: Insect-catching " and the 

 more generally used appellation " Insectivorous " (Insect-eating). 

 As to the former, there can be no dispute ; but as to the eating 

 powers, this is quite an open question. I find that immediately 

 after the insect is really dead, as stated above, the plant assumes 

 its proper character. With regard to the insect which has been 

 destroyed, the plant has no power to cast it away, and it gradually 

 decays on the surface of the leaf. I have also noted that when 

 the unfortunate creature happens to be a spider or a fly of unusual 

 proportions, the decomposition that follows after death often 

 causes the destruction of the leaf also ; in fact, if allowed to 

 remain on the surface long enough, it will rot the leaf through. 

 This being the case, I cannot see what advantage is derived by 

 the plants, or recognise the carnivorous instincts with which they 

 are popularly credited. 



The cultural requirements of Diona,a muscipula are not 

 extensive. The plants may be easily cultivated in a cool green- 

 house, or with' the cold sections of Orchids. They are usually 

 imported from Carolina and Florida by nurserymen. The 

 potting compost required is a mixture of peat, leaf-soil, living 

 sphagnum, and sand. The pots used should be clean, not too 

 large, and well-drained ; this latter feature is essential, as the 

 least stagnation is fatal to the well-being of the plants. The 

 potting compost should be pressed moderately firm about the 

 base of the plants, which should be raised to within a short 

 distance of the rim of the pot. During the active season of 

 growth — the early spring and summer months — Dionffias require a 

 liberal supply of water at the roots. Drier conditions may be 

 afforded during the resting season, but sufficient must be given 

 to sustain the plants in a plump condition. A bell-glass may 

 be placed over them to prevent dust or insects from coming 

 into contact with the leaves while in an active state of growth. 



