ii8 ROYAL GARDENS 



age, cover many feet run of space. And in the gardens are 

 many rare shrubs, of which the history is well known to 

 those interested in such things. There are several Wistarias 

 of great size, of which one specimen covers a run of 50 feet 

 of a high wall. An uncommon climber is Alaternus 

 variegata. This is a perfect specimen, covering several yards 

 of wall space. Its white variegation is most pleasing. The 

 lovely Spirea prunifolia fl. pi. is in full flower here in April. 

 There are also some fine examples of Magnolias, Deutzias, 

 Kerrias and many others, grown as wall plants. Many rare 

 shrubs growing in various corners of the garden surprise 

 beholders by their size. Most people are acquainted with 

 them only as pot-grown plants. 



Extensive ranges of glass structures are required to bring 

 forward the vast number of plants wanted for the garden. 

 And at whichever season of the year they may be visited 

 they always present a well-filled and well-ordered appearance. 

 Several spacious vineries and peach-houses provide splendid 

 crops of these fruits and are also used for housing the plants 

 which will be planted out in the flower gardens later. At 

 present a gradual renewal of the vines is in progress, and the 

 young plants give great promise. Smaller houses are used 

 for Melons, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, &c. 



A collection of Malmaison Carnations is one of the chief 

 interests of the indoor gardening. The plants seem to enjoy 

 the pure atmosphere of this delightful neighbourhood, for 

 they are in rude health. Besides the fine old pink Mal- 

 maison, all the best of the newer varieties are grown. 

 Special favourites are The Colonel, Albion, Calypso, Duchess 

 of Westminster and Horace Hutchinson. Carnations of all 

 classes indeed are held in regard at Claremont, and several 

 thousands are grown in the open garden. A good selection 

 of all the more select greenhouse plants are grown. And the 

 conservatory is kept gay at all seasons with flowering plants. 

 Frames and pits in long ranges provide space for the raising 

 and propagation of many subjects, and for growing winter 

 salads, violets, &c. 



