SUBTROPICAL GARDENS AND EFFECTS 
77 
Subtropical plants, being of 
luxuriant growth, naturally re- 
quire for early effects and per- 
fect results an abundance of 
food and moisture. The soil 
must be prepared deep and rich, 
and efficiently drained, so that 
plenty of water can be given the 
plants and beds during hot, dry 
weather. If the soil is porous 
and in good condition, turn the 
hose on them for an hour or 
more every day. 
Among the most noble plants 
for subtropical effects are some 
that require to be wintered over 
in the greenhouse in pots or 
tubs, including Acalyphas, Aga- 
panthus, for tubs; Abutilons, es- 
pecially the variegated -leaved 
sorts ; Agaves, Aralias (figured 
on page 76); Coleus, Drac^nas, 
Cycas; Papyrus, for moist places; 
Cactus, especially Cereus gigan- 
teus, Musas or Banana plants 
(illustrated on this page); Palms, 
either in tubs or plunged pots ; 
Rubber Plants, etc. 
Among the bulbous- and tuber- 
ous-rooted plants we have also a few that produce growths of tropical 
aspect, the bulbs or tubers of which should be wintered over in a 
dormant condition in a warm place, as under a greenhouse bench. 
Included among the suitable kinds are Amorphophallus, Caladiums, 
both the variegated-leaved and the "Elephant’s Ear.” Cannas, Callas, 
Crinums and Elyacinthus candicans are all effective. 
Another showy class of subtropical plants may be grown from 
seeds, which should be started about February, that the plants may 
be good and strong before setting out in May. We give a list 
of varieties that may be grown frPm seeds on page 78. Very pleas- 
ing permanent subtropical effects are attainable with suitable hardy 
plants and those that are hardy with protection. Among such sub- 
jects we mention Acanthus, hardy Bamboos, and the giant reed 
Arundo ; Bocconiae, giant Fennel, Funkias, Royal Ferns, Gunneras, 
for\ moist situations; giant Rhubarb, Verbascums, Yuccas, and Tri- 
tomas. Nor must we forget the important hardy ornamental grasses 
Pampas, Eulalia and Erianthus. Ailanthus and Paulownia, although 
naturally they form trees, yet if young plants are set out and 
cut back to the roots every spring, the new growth will produce 
enormous and very beautiful leaves, larger than are borne on the 
trees. Ailanthus is a stately hardy perennial, with large and beau- 
tiful foliage. 
