666 



THE BOOK OF GARDENING. 



A. Thibaiitimia^ from Borneo, is the finest of the genus ; it is 

 of robust habit, with leaves from 2ft. to 2^ft. long, and i5in. to 

 2oin. broad, of a deep olive greyish-green, with numerous grey 

 veinlets branching from the midrib, which is of a greyish-white ; 

 the under-surface of the blade is purple. 



Ananassa sativa variegata (Variegated Pine-Apple) is a pretty 

 Bromeliaceous plant having handsome striped leaves with spiny 

 margins. It is increased by suckers taken off the old plant, 

 potted into small pots, and grown on in bottom-heat. The 

 crown of the fruit may be treated in the same way. Equal 

 parts loam and peat and just a sprinkling of crushed bones 

 form a compost in which the plants will thrive. Give frequent 

 syringings and a moderate supply of water when growing, but 

 only just sufficient to prevent shrivelling when at rest. 



Andropogon Schcenanthus. — -This grass is a great favourite 

 owing to its easy culture and the fragrant odour emitted by 

 the leaves when slightly rubbed, which has gained for it the 

 name of Lemon Grass. It is readily increased by division or 

 by seed, and grows freely in peat, loam, and sand. In India, 

 where this plant grows wild, the Europeans make an agreeable 

 tea with the fresh leaves, which is considered a tonic. An essential 

 oil is obtained by distillation which is used in the adulteration 

 of Otto of Roses. 



Anthurium. — The fine foliage species of Anthurium, from 

 Tropical America, have a striking aspect, and are valuable for 



exhibition purposes as well as for 

 decorating the stove. They may be 

 propagated and grown in the same 

 manner as Alocasias. 



A, crystallinu7n (Fig. 432) has large, 

 ova], heart-shaped leaves of a bright 

 velvety green, and veins beautifully 

 marked with pure silvery-white lines. 

 The young leaves are violet-coloured. 

 A. magnifiaiin (sometimes called 

 A. Gordifoliiwi and A. grande) pro- 

 duces deep shining green leaves 3ft. 

 long and 28in. broad. It is something 

 like A. crystalHmim, but lacks the silvery 

 lines so conspicuous in that species. 

 A. splendidum (Fig. 433) is very distinct 

 from all the other species. It has large, 

 handsome, heart-shaped leaves, with 

 blendings of pale yellowish and deep 

 velvety lustrous-green shades. A. Veitchn 

 makes a noble and handsome exhibition plant. It has elongated 

 leaves of a leathery texture and waved appearance, 3ft. to 4ft. 



Fig. 432. — Anthurium 

 crystallinum. 



