ON AQUATIC PLANTS. 



situating close to the margin of the water. A similar situation 

 also suits the Spiral Rush (^Ju7icus effusus spiralis), which is an 

 interesting plant, with curious corkscrew-like stems. 



The following are giant members of the Grass family of very 

 graceful and effective habit : Miscanthus japo?iicus, better known 

 as Eidalia japonica, and its handsome variegated varieties foliis- 

 striatis and zebrinus, are tall, elegant subjects, with large 

 plumose panicles of purplish flowers ; their beauty is best dis- 

 played when planted close to 

 the w^ater's edge. The tall 

 Arundo Donax, and its varie- 

 gated variety, A. D. versi- 

 color, are strikingly handsome 

 plants, the latter being the 

 tenderer and less vigorous, 

 but both should be situated 

 in sheltered, sunny positions, 

 and their crowns protected in 

 winter. Panicimi virgahim is 

 a very ornamental plant, .of 

 erect and robust habit, pro- 

 ducing large branching pani- 

 cles of flowers. The well- 

 known Ribbon Grass {Fha- 

 laris arujidiiiacea variegata), 

 with its prettily striped leaves, 

 is a very effective plant for 

 the waterside. In sheltered, 

 sunny situations the stately- 

 growing Erianthus Rave7ince 

 could be introduced with good 

 effect, its bronzy - coloured 

 foliage being very attractive. 

 The w^ell - known Pampas 

 Grass, Gyneriiuii argenteuin, 

 with its long glaucous green 

 leaves and handsome silvery 

 panicles of flowers, is a very 

 desirable subject to intro- 

 duce ; as is also the North 

 American Grass {Uniola lati- 

 folia), with its broad flat 

 leaves and graceful panicles 

 of flowers. 



In the background, in drier situations, groups 

 growing Bamboos might be introduced with very 

 Amongst Ferns may be mentioned the Flowering 



Fig. 598. — Epilobium axgustifglium. 



of the 



stately- 

 effect, 

 or Royal 



Fern {Osmunda regalis) and its pretty crested variety crisiata ; 



telling 



