896 JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



' Blanche Fleur ' (white, tinged rose), ' Graaf Bentinck ' (white, flaked dark 

 carmine). 



Both the Spanish and the English Irises are among the easiest bulbs 

 to grow. They like a light, rich, well-drained soil, and will thrive in 

 either an open or partially shaded situation. September planting will 

 give the best results, but the bulbs may also be put in as late as November. 

 These Irises may also be grown in pots and forced gently, but artificial 

 heat should not be given until the flower buds are formed. 



Fig. 203.— Ixias. 



Ixia. — Among the gems of June bulbous flowers, the Ixia, Spar axis, 

 and Calochortus claim our notice. For a wide range of gorgeous colours, 

 there are few flowers which can vie with the Ixia (the ' African Corn 

 Lily '). On graceful wiry stems, their loose racemes of flowers present 

 a most brilliant effect, especially when the blossoms, expanding in the 

 sun's rays, display a dark centre, a contrast in colour which enhances 

 considerably the beauty of the flower. A sunny situation protected from 

 cold winds, and a good light, well-drained hoil, are essential in growing 



