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AER1DES VIRENS. 
being attached to a rough block of wood by fine wire, the lower part of the stem, and 
a few of the roots also, enveloped in a small portion of sphagnum. It cannot bear 
intense light, and must therefore be securely shaded from the possibility of the sun's 
rays affecting it ; and, with a high temperature, and plenty of moisture, by syringing 
and other means, it will grow with rapidity and flower freely. 
In winter, the removal of shade, a lower temperature, a drier atmosphere, and an 
almost entire suspension of water to the plant, will place it in a perfect state of rest 
until the following April, when it should be subjected to a warm, but dry, atmo- 
sphere, and in June be again introduced into a moist stove, as before. 
In propagation, it is advisable not to separate any young branches until roots 
have protruded from them, and after separation, give the young plants very little 
moisture until they evince signs of growth. 
Our drawing was made at the nursery of Messrs. Loddiges, in April last. 
The generic name is derived from Aer, air, on account of its deriving so visibly 
its sole support from the atmosphere. 
