230 The Catchfiy. 



natives of North America. They are readily recognised K 

 their resemblance to the Pinks, from which they may be 

 once distinguished by the absence of scales at the base of th 

 calyx. Several species are not uncommon in gardens, and ar 

 of easy culture. S. Pensylvanica grows in most of the northern 

 and middle states, where it is usually called Wild Pink. I t ; 

 rather a pretty plant, being of low stature, with numerous 

 stems, and frequently a great profusion of flowers. The calyx 

 is long, and very hairy and glutinous. The petals are wedee- 

 shaped, the edges generally slightly crenated. It is found in 

 dry sandy soils, and flowers in June. 



S. regia, or Royal Catchfly, is altogether the most beauti- 

 ful and showy of all the species. In some of the Western 

 States it often grows in great profusion, sometimes to the 

 height of three or four feet, producing its splendid scarlet 

 flowers in abundance. When cultivated, it will grow in anv 

 common garden soil, and thrives best in a mixture of peat and 

 loam. The stems are hollow and jointed, and the leaves pale 

 green. 



S. chloraefolia is a neat, low plant, with large pure white 

 flowers, and pinkish calyxes. It grows compactly, and its 

 leaves are broad and of a good color, having but little of the 

 clammy secretion of the others. It is a native of the West. 



