78 SPHENOGYNE SPECIOSA. 
seen by our plate, that some of the blossoms are pale yellow, while others are of a 
rich orange. The rays of dark spots which encircle the centre of the flower, are 
also of a most lustrous hue, resembling polished metal, and contributing materially 
to enhance its beauty. 
From what precise district this beautiful plant was obtained, we are yet 
uninformed. It was introduced to this country in 1836, as some assert from the 
South American continent, but as others are led to believe, from the Cape of Good 
Hope. We are not acquainted with a more ornamental annual of the same 
character, or one better adapted to the formation of groups in the flower-garden. 
Seldom growing more than one foot high, it may, if considered desirable, be rendered 
still dwarfer, by securing its shoots to the ground with small pegs at an early 
period of its progress. It will thus form a most gorgeous display ; contrasting 
admirably with Verbenas, and other similar plants. 
As this is a rather tender annual, its seeds should be sown in pans, or in a 
prepared bed, and subjected to a trifling degree of bottom heat. It will not 
endure much disturbance, and should therefore be potted while very young ; and 
in its subsequent removal to a larger pot, as well as in its final transplantation to 
the destined situation, great care must be exercised, as its roots are somewhat 
slender. Seeds sown in February, will produce plants fit for transferring to the 
open ground in May ; and these will flower vigorously during June and July. 
For the greenhouse it is not at all calculated, and should be cultivated solely for 
the flower-garden, in which a succession of flowers may be maintained by a 
variation in the period of sowing. 
A considerable advantage will be gained by pegging down the shoots of the 
plant. No support for its stems will thus be needed, nor will they be so liable to 
be broken or injured by wind. Its flowers will likewise be brought closer together, 
and produce, collectively, a more striking effect. 
This species flowered most profusely in the collection of Messrs. Young, Epsom, 
throughout the months of July and August, 1838. Our figure was obtained at 
this period, and from this as well as most other nursery establishments, seeds may 
be procured. 
Of the generic name, the origin will be found in sphen, a wedge, and gyne, a 
female ; the stigma of the florets in x his genus being wedge-shaped. 
