ARUM. — ARUM LILY. — ASCLEPIAS. 



33 



The roots of this species are very acrid ; a thin slice 

 placed on the naked skin will very soon draw a blister. 



ARUM. 



A. Dracunculus (Dragon Plant). — Growing from 

 three to four feet high, with a large blackish -purple 

 flower, appearing before the foliage, which is very orna- 

 mental. It is a handsome plant for decorative purposes 

 when grown in a pot, after the flower has been removed. 

 They are very ornamental in the border, and will grow 

 with little care, preferring a deep rich soil. Plant, and 

 treat as other spring bulbs. 



ARUM LILY. 

 See Richardia cethiopica. 



ASCLEPIAS. 



The following species is the only one that is proper 

 to include in our list. 



A. tuberosa (Butterfly Weed, from its showy flow- 

 ers, and Pleurisy Root, because of its supposed medical 

 properties). — This is a hardy herbaceous perennial, 

 thriving in light sandy or gravelly soil. Its showy 

 trusses of bright orange flowers are produced nearly the 

 entire summer. It is a desirable plant for the shrub- 

 bery border, where it may remain for an indefinite period, 

 without being disturbed. In fact, it should never be 

 disturbed, as it is impatient of removal, and cannot well 

 be propagated by division. It grows readily from seed, 

 which should be sown where it is wanted to grow. For 

 purposes of sale it is best grown in small pots, in which 

 tubers will be formed that can be handled without loss. 

 Propagation can also be effected by terminal root-cut- 

 tings. This species is confined exclusively to America. 



ATAMASCO LILY. 



See Zephyranthes. Page 25. 

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