271 
GESNERA ZEBRINA. 
(zebra-leaved gesnera.) 
ORDER. 
ANGIOSPERMIA. 
natural ORDER. 
GESNERACEyE. 
Generic Character. — See p. 243. 
Specific Character. — Plant apparently an lierbaceous perennial. Stems erect, succulent, downy. 
Leaves somewhat roundish, convex, revolute, and partially crenate at the margin, pubescent, deep 
green, veined and striped with reddish purple. Spikes o/" 7?oziJer.s terminal, ascending, indefinite. 
Peduncles very long, erect. Corolla drooping, orange-red above, pale orange below, with the 
segments of the limb almost equal, and its interior, as well as the throat, spotted with red. 
In the history of floriculture, it usually happens that not more than two or 
three plants, of the highest class of beauty, are annually brought to light. The 
main characteristic of these is, that from their splendour at certain periods, or their 
attractiveness at all times, they are calculated for continuing in cultivation almost 
as long as ornamental plants shall be at all valued. 
Of the nature thus pointed out is the handsome species of Gesnera here depicted, 
which may very properly be accounted one of the most meritorious plants which 
have developed themselves in the year just closed ; for, not only does it arrest the 
attention during the time at which its blossoms are unfolded, but, by the diversified 
markings of its leaves, at every season when these are in perfection. And whether, 
on further experiment, it will prove an evergreen sub-shrubby plant, or will lose its 
stems and foliage in the later winter months, we are at present unable to say. The 
probability is that it will be found an herbaceous perennial, flowering in October, 
November, and December, and dying down, like some other species, after the 
inflorescence has all withered ; though it is possible that it will partake more of the 
character of G. mollis^ and acquire a woodiness of stem at the base. 
Our drawing was taken from a plant which flowered very finely at Mr. 
Low''s, Clapton, in October and November last, and on which there is yet a 
considerable number of flower-buds, if the season would permit their expansion. It 
class. 
DIDYNAMIA. 
