Plate 480 . 
GAILLARDIA PICT A, VAR. SPLENDID A. 
We very rarely now see any particular attention given to a 
class of plants which in former years used to be very popular ; 
we mean the hardy and half-hardy annuals. Many of them 
were no doubt evanescent in character ; but there were large 
numbers which were exceedingly beautiful, gave great density 
of colour, and were well adapted for adding to the beauty of 
bouquets. So far has this gone, that even the sweet-scented 
flowers, with which most persons are pleased, the mignionette 
and the sweet-pea are banished, as no place can be found for 
them in the system of bedding out which now so universally 
prevails. Asters, stocks, and a few others are cultivated, but 
many of our older favourites are quite passed by. 
We think that it cannot be denied that this wholesale rejec- 
tion of annuals is to be deplored, and we cannot but hope that 
some day they may be again restored to favour ; we therefore 
figure a variety of the old Gaillardia picta, which has been 
introduced by Mr. William Bull. We believe it to be of French 
origin, and although only an annual, we are sure it must meet 
with the approval of those who love beautiful flowers. It will 
be seen that while bearing a great similarity to the older type, 
it is more brilliant in colouring and larger in flower. 
Although generally treated as annuals, yet as they are some- 
times inclined to sport from seed, many persons treat them as 
herbaceous plants ; and where the soil is damp and cold, and 
therefore some risk is run in leaving out the plants in winter, 
