62 
MUSA COCCINEA. 
few, seldom exceeding- four or five perfect ones on a good sized plant, being parallel, 
very conspicuous on the under side. 
The cultivation of this species is attended with somewhat more trouble than 
any of the preceding-, on account of its being- of rather a more tender habit. It requires 
at all times to be grown in a brisk heat, with an atmosphere inclined to humidity ; 
and in very open rich soil well watered. Suckers, by which it is increased, are 
produced from the roots of the old plants in abundance, at all times, but more 
particularly after the stalk is cut off, which always dies after flowering. When they 
are large enough, and have made plenty of good roots, they should be carefully 
taken from the old soil and potted in new, being careful at first in giving them 
water until well established, which will be soon manifest by the indications of 
growth in the plant; afterwards they may be treated as recommended for older 
plants. This plant, when in bloom, is peculiarly handsome ; the rose colour of the 
flowers and yellow-green tint of the leaves make a pretty contrast, and produce a 
lively eff'ect in the stove, when arranged among other exotics. When in bloom, if 
it is desired to set the fruit, the pollen from the anther, when matured, should be 
removed to the stigma by means of a soft camel's hair brush, when the atmosphere 
of the house is dry, for if damp it cannot be performed so successfully. This is 
essential to the setting- of the fruit in the whole species. Care should at all times 
be taken not to damage tha leaves, as this tends much to injure the beauty of the 
plants. 
