200 
PETREA STAPELSIA. 
It delights in good open loam, mixed with a little sandy peat ; and cuttings in 
sand, under a glass, in heat, root freely. It must be kept constantly in the stove, 
where it thrives well, particularly if the situation be warm and moist ; when growing 
it takes a good deal of water, but in the autumn and winter it is necessary to be 
very cautious in the administration of this element, as the roots when over watered in 
winter do not start well when put into new soil in the spring ; the pots should be 
well drained. 
The generic name is given in honour of Robert James Lord Petre, of whose 
death, which took place in 1742, Linmeus speaks as one of the greatest losses 
Botany or Gardening ever felt in this island. 
