Plate 357. 



AZALEA, EMPEESS OP INDIA. 



This new double variety, raised by M. A. Van Geert of Belgium, and in course of 

 distribution by him, had made a great reputation on the Continent before it was submitted 

 for critical inspection at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society early in March 

 last, when it was awarded a First-class Certificate of Merit. This award was in confirmation 

 of the first prize which was won by this distinct Azalea at the International Horticultural 

 Exhibition held in Ghent in March, 1878. It is, we believe, the first double form of 

 a variegated Azalea yet produced ; the flowers having a salmon-rose and carmine base, and a 

 broad edging of pure white ; large and full, and freely produced ; while the habit of growth 

 is robust, and yet short-jointed and compact. 



Double Azaleas are finding great favour, because so useful to cut from, the 

 blossoms being so much more durable than the single flowers. This is a matter of some 

 moment, as the Azalea is much grown for cutting purposes in early spring. This new 

 variety will be a fine decorative subject, and we shall be safe in predicting for it a large 

 share of favour as an exhibition plant. 



Plate 358. 

 PHAL^ENOPSIS ESMERALDA. 



This charming species is at the very antipodes of P. grandiflora and P. Schelleriana in 

 regard to the qualities of size and grandeur; and yet it is so pretty, distinct, and 

 attractive as to well deserve Professor Reichenbach's eulogium, as being a " lovely gem." 

 The flowers are said to equal those of P. equestris ; they are of a brilliant amethyst colour, 

 the erect spikes, which are about a foot in height, having as many as from twelve to twenty 

 blossoms, according to the strength of the plants. It is a stove epiphyte, and a native 

 of Cochin China. The plant from which our drawing was made flowered in the collection of 

 Messrs. James Veitch and Sons, Eoyal Exotic Nursery, King's Eoad, Chelsea. 



It is one of those small but interesting forms that will find favour among many 

 cultivators of orchids. It has been a passion with some to accumulate collections of orchids 

 of this character ; and it is well it is so, as many subjects are thereby preserved that are not 

 generally cultivated. The rich colouring in the flower of P. esmeralda will gain for it a large 

 share of favour, which it really deserves. 



