This little book is intended to acquaint all plant lovers with the many Exotic 
Plants suitable for the home or conservatory. Some 1000 plants are pictured. 
It is, however, not a scientific work. Names are as we know them as practical 
growers although we tried to conform to Bailey, Engler, Parey, Vilmorin, Nicholson, 
Birdsey. Since at times these authorities themselves do not agree, we occasionally 
retained a name of long standing; in such cases we indicate the synonym. 
Descriptions of plants are non-technical and from a layman's point of view. Wher- 
ever possible, the original habitat of species is indicated. This background may 
not prove correct for horticultural forms, but should be helpful to flower show 
planners in grouping of geographical areas, and also give a cue to the plant's 
requirements, 
The photographs are meant to convey a general idea of the appearance of cul- 
tivated exotics without necessarily showing them in flowering or even mature 
stage. 
The number at the end of the line refers to a picture, if shown, and also to a 
corresponding number on the Availability List. 
A brief guide to the individual requirements of listed plants is provided by 
means of a Key following the description of each species. 
Some pictures are added for a glimpse of the romantic background of our Exotic 
plants in their native lands. 
We classify some subjects as favoring the conservatory-greenhouse because 
most homes are either too cool—or if warm enough, too dry for the average 
tropical plant. 
The intelligent plant lover is learning to make provisions to add the necessary 
moisture and supplementary light, additions of which make a great difference 
in the keeping quality of plants. 
Light can be as important as moisture and this is understandable when one con- 
siders the high intensity of sunlight in the tropics. A fluorescent lamp or even 
an ordinary Mazda bulb will do wonders in providing energy to leaves. 
Sufficient watering can be insured by setting the pot into a saucer or jardiniere, 
allowing some water to stand at the base. 
Proper humidity is best provided through a humidifier, or even a pan of water 
on the radiator. This will not only benefit plant life but make for healthier 
living as well. 
March 1953 
sae aN i 
Psa 
