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BILLBERGIA IRIDIFOLIA. 



collections. It is a native of Rio J aneiro, where like other epiphytic plants it 

 may be seen growing upon the trunks and branches of trees ; which, in tropical 

 climates, are thus frequently adorned with hues and odours not their own. 



The genus Billbergia was originally founded by Thunberg, and has been 

 adopted by Dr. Lindley, as embracing some species formerly included in Bromelia, 

 but which appear to differ from that genus in certain peculiarities of structure. 



The natural order Bromeliacece, to which Billbergia belongs, contains alto- 

 gether about twenty genera, one of which Jnanassa, the Pine Apple, is remark- 

 able for its well-known, rich, fleshy fruit. The plants of this order are very 

 peculiar in habit ; many of the species have the power of existing without water 

 and even without soil; hence it is not unusual for the inhabitants of South 

 America to suspend in their apartments such of the species as are remarkable 

 either for the brilliancy of their colours, or the delicacy of their fragrance. 



Cultivation. — Billbergia iridifolia is a stove perennial : it requires a strong 

 heat to grow it fine, and should have a rather limited supply of water during the 

 winter months. The soil should be loam, well-rotted dung, and sand, with plenty 

 of drainers in the bottoms of the pots. It is readily increased by dividing, spring 

 being the best season for that purpose. Although requiring a strong heat to 

 ensure fine plants, it will almost live in a warm greenhouse. 



