28 
BARBACENIA PURPUREA. 
I) 
from those of B. squamata in having larger and more distant spinous serratures 
at their margins. The plant is also distinguished by the flower-stalk being 
considerably longer than the leaves, and by the colour of the flowers. Several 
of the species described by Martius in the Plantes Brazilienses are much larger 
plants than either of these, and some are apparently well worth the attention 
of collectors of showy species. 
The situation pointed out by Mr. Gardner as the natural habitat of this plant, 
sufficiently indicates the kind of treatment most likely to prove congenial. And 
as far as our experience enables us to judge, this is in strict accordance with the i 
practice of successful cultivators. A warm, moist atmosphere, and a proportionate 
and uniform degree of heat about the roots in the growing season, together with a 
porous soil, partly composed of well-rotted leaves, through which water can easily 
pass and any excess drain away, seem to be the essential elements in the main- 
tenance of a high state of cultural perfection. 
It is increased by division of the roots. 
