of many of our readers, but as it is interesting to 
the general observer, as well as the botanist, we 
shall annex Dr. Lindley’s remarks on the differ- 
ences between phyllodia and leaves. He says, — 
^^The petiole becomes so developed as to assume 
the appearance of a leaf, all the functions of which 
it performs, They may always be distinguished 
from true leaves by the following characters: — 
1. — If observed when the plant is very young, they 
will be found to bear leaflets, 2. — Both their sur- 
faces are alike, 3. — They very generally present 
their margins to the earth and heavens ; not their 
surfaces. 4. — They are always straight-veined; 
and, as they only occur among dicotyledonous 
plants, this peculiarity alone will characterize 
them.” 
Although this plant succeeds well with frame 
protection, or in mild winters, against a south wall, 
we recommend it as a window plant, than which 
none is more beautiful, or more easily managed. 
It should be potted in a compost of loam, peat, 
and sand ; and may be increased by cuttings of 
the young wood in summer. A south window, in 
a room without fire, suits it best ; except in severe 
frosts, when it must be removed during the night. 
In winter it should be watered very sparingly, but 
freely when in flower. Before its last flowers have 
fallen, cut it back, as much as is required to give 
the plant a regular shape. From the middle of 
June to the middle of September, plunge its pot in 
the open border of the garden ; first keeping it out 
a fortnight in the shade, as sudden exposure to the 
open sun would discolour its foliage. 
