ant it where these conditions do
not exist; moreover, the rule with species of the order _Ericaceae_ is to
require a pure, or approximately pure, atmosphere. Doubtless these
conditions will debar many from growing this shrub successfully; but I
may add, where its requirements can be afforded, not only should it be
freely planted, but it will probably thrive without any further care.

As a cut flower it is exquisite, if taken with a good stem and a few
leaves; to many it may appear odd when I say it is too good to cut, but
there are others who will comprehend me. The flowers can nowhere show to
more advantage than on the bush, and it seems a pity to take its
strongest branches for the sake of transferring the blossom.

It is a slow-growing subject, but easily propagated by layering the
lower branches; no matter how old or hard the wood has grown, if pegged
well down they will soon become rooted.

Flowering period, June to August.

Lactuca Sonchifolia.

SOW THISTLE-LEAFED LETTUCE; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITAE.

This is one of the few ornamental species of a somewhat numerous genus;
it is, moreover, perennial and hardy in this climate--characteristics
not common to the family. It came from Candia, in 1822, since which time
it has been grown in English gardens, more or less, as a decorative
plant; it is of unusual form, especially in the foliage. I think it
would scarcely be called handsome; but the flowers, which are a fine
pale blue, and of the form usual to the order, are too good to be
overlooked, and their value is enhanced by the fact of their being
produced so late in the year.

In speaking of the flower as a subject of the pleasure garden, it is
unnecessary to describe it beyond saying that it is of a rich but pale
blue colour, and over 1in. across, produced on stalks nearly 2ft. high,
in lax panicles. The leaves are large--about 1ft. long and 9in.
wide--have a stout mid-rib, are pinnate, and most curiously lobed. The
leaflets, moreover, are fantastically shaped, being again lobed, also
toothed and bent in various ways. The teeth have spine-like points, and
the only uniform trait about their form seems to be that the edges are
turned backwards. The upper surface is a pale green colour, the under
side grey, almost white. It is of rather neat habit, and though I have
not grown it in lines, it is only needful to see one good specimen in
order to be certain of its effectiveness when so planted; it would be
sin