104 THE ORCHID REVIEW. 
so far as our knowledge extends, the fact that it occurs is pretty conclusive 
evidence that this is an effective means for the propagation of the species, 
as would a priori be expected from such a brilliantly-coloured, highly- 
specialised Orchid, which is incapable of self-fertilisation. Arrangements 
of this kind cannot possibly be meaningless, and it is most unlikely 
that the plant has now lost its use for them. 
DENDROBIUM NOBILE. 
A TRULY marvellous specimen plant of Dendrobium nobile is now in flower 
at Hollin Hall, near Bradford, the residence of Mrs. G. Knowles; carrying 
1,134 fine flowers. Five years ago when the present gardener, Mr. Moorby, 
‘took charge of the establishment, he found this plant in an 8in. pot, half 
starved, and the bulbs not measuring more than ten inches in height. By 
skilful treatment and a little advice he not only resuscitated the plant, but 
brought it up to the condition which is a credit to him. The plant is ina 
14in. basket, measuring three feet in diameter, the longest bulbs 4ft. 6in. 
long, and last year it received an Award of Merit from the Bradford Paxton 
Society. It is quite evident from the foregoing that Orchids will grow and 
pay well in smoky manufacturing towns like Bradford, if they are properly 
attended to. The plant in question. is growing with four smaller ones in a 
house devoted chiefly to tomatoes, and the aggregate number of the five 
plants amounts to 2,758 flowers. 
Mr. Moorby admits his success is due to top dressing every year with 
fresh sphagnum and peat, thus keeping the compost fresh and sweet; 
another point upon which he lays stress, is the resting of the plants, at the 
right time, and by witholding water gradually; he never allows his plants 
to shrivel to any extent, and the beautiful foliage on last season’s growth 
proves conclusively that his treatment is right. I have only seen two 
specimen plants approaching the one alluded to; they were exhibited five 
years ago at the Temple Show, and created a great deal of interest. I 
I never heard how many flowers each of these specimens carried; the 
exhibitor will perhaps enlighten the readers of the Orchid Review on the 
subject. 
By way of conclusion I may add that there is also a very fine plant of 
Dendrobium Wardianum, with seven flowering growths, which to my 
knowledge has been in the possession or the late Mr. G. Knowles for 
over twelve years. 
R. EICHEL, 
