more apposite fable. Andromeda is represented 
by them as a virgin of most exquisite and unrivalled 
charms; but these charms remain in perfection only 
so long as she retains her virgin purity, which is 
also applicable to the plant now preparing to cele- 
brate its nuptials. This plant is always fixed on 
some little turfy hillock, in the midst of the 
swamps, as Andromeda herself was chained to a 
rock in the sea, which bathed her feet, as the fresh 
water does the roots of this plant. Dragons and 
venomous serpents surround her, as toads and 
other reptiles frequent the abode of her vegetable 
resembler, and, when they pair in the spring, throw 
mud and dirt over its leaves and branches. As 
the distressed virgin cast down her blushing face, 
through excessive affliction, so does this rosy-co- 
loured flower hang its head, growing paler and 
paler till it withers away. Hence, as this plant 
forms a new genus, 1 have chosen for it the name 
of Andromeda.” Linneus subsequently extended 
the analogy. ^‘At length comes Perseus, in the 
shape of summer, dries up the surrounding water, 
and destroys the monsters, rendering the damsel a 
fruitful mother, who then carries her head (the 
capsule) erect.” 
Andromeda speciosa is an exceedingly handsome 
species, and of which there are several varieties, 
each varying more or less in their foliage and 
flowers, but in no important degree ; that called 
pulverulenta may be esteemed the best. 
It should be grown in sandy peat, not less than 
eighteen inches deep ; where it will flourish and 
flower, regardless of late frosts. 
