194 SUBTUOPICAL PLANTS POR THE FLOWER GARDEN. 



more simple : they may be stored in -filter as readily as 

 potatoes, under shelves in the houses, in the root-room, or^ 

 in fact, anywhere covered up from the influences of frost. 

 And then in spring, when we desire to propagate them, 

 nothing is easier than pulling the roots in pieces, and 

 potting them separately. Afterwards it is usual to bring 

 them on in heat, and finally harden them ofP previous to 

 planting out ; but a modification of this practice is de- 

 sirable, as some kinds are of a remarkably hardy constitu- 

 tion, and make a beautiful growth if put out without so 

 much as a leaf on them. 



In rambling through an obscure part of Paris one even- 

 ing, I encountered a tuft of Canna springing up strongly 

 through and around a box-edging — pretty good evidence 

 that it had remained there for some years. Upon inquiiy 

 of the proprietor of the garden I found this was the case^ 

 and that he had no doubt of the hardiness of several other 

 kinds. They were planted not more than eight or ten 

 inches deep. When we remember that the Cannas are 

 amongst the most valuable plants we use for giving grace 

 and verdure to the flower garden, this surely is a hint 

 worthy of being acted upon. Considering their diversity 

 of colour and size, their graceful pointed habit and facility 

 of propagation, we must concede them the first place ; but 

 their capability of being used by anybody who grows 

 ordinary bedding plants, and the fact that they may be 

 preserved so veiy easily through the winter, enhance their 

 value still more. The following are among the best of the 

 hardiest kinds : — ^C. Annsei, mussefolia, gigantea, limbata, 

 Warscewiczii, nigricans, maxima, and zebrina. Of course 

 they will prove equally hardy with us. As it is desirable 

 to change the arrangements as much as possible eveiy year, 

 it may not be any advantage to leave them in the ground, 

 and in that case they may be taken up with the bedding 

 plants, and stored as simply and easily as carrots, parsnips, 

 or potatoes. A bed of Cannas, protected by a coating of 

 litter, was left out in Battersea Park tln^ough the severe 

 winter of 1866-7. During the unfavourable summer of 

 1867 they attained a height of nearly twelve feet. 



