of the same stock, in light sandy
earth, did not suffer in the least. I have also made similar
observations outside my own garden.

The stout scapes or stems sometimes reach a height of 4ft., and are
topped with long or cocoon-shaped spikes of orange and red flowers; the
flowers are tubular and small, closely arranged, and drooping; each will
be about an inch long, and the spikes 6in. to 8in. long. The leaves are
narrow, 2ft. to 3ft. long, keeled, channelled, and rough on the edges,
of a dark green colour and prostrate habit. Either amongst trees or in
more conspicuous positions this flower proves very effective, whilst in
lines it is simply dazzling; when grown in quantity it may be cut for
indoor decoration, than which few large flowers are more telling.

Cultural hints have already been given in speaking of its hardiness, but
I may add that where the soil is naturally light and dry a liberal
dressing of well-rotted manure may be dug in with great benefit to the
flowers. It is readily propagated by division of the roots every third
year; the young stock should be put in rows, the earth having been
deeply stirred and well broken; this may be done in late autumn or
spring--if the former, a top dressing of leaves will assist root action.

This bold and brilliant flower appears in September, and is produced in
numbers more or less to the end of the year, provided the season does
not set in very severe.

Tropaeolum Tuberosum.

TUBEROUS TROPAEOLUM; _Nat. Ord._ TROPAEOLACEAE.

All the species of this genus are highly decorative garden subjects,
including the annual varieties, and otherwise they are interesting. They
are known by various names, as Trophy-plant, Indian Cress, and
Nasturtium, though the latter is only applicable strictly to plants of
another order. The plant under notice is a climber, herbaceous and
perennial, having tuberous roots, whence its specific name; they much
resemble small potatoes, and are eaten in Peru, the native country of
the plant. It has not long been grown in this country, the date of its
introduction being 1836; it is not often seen, which may be in part
owing to the fact of its being considered tender in this climate. But
let me at once state that under favourable conditions, and such as may
easily be afforded in any garden, it proves hardy. As a matter of fact,
I wintered it in 1880-1, and also in 1881-2, which latter does not
signify much, as it proved so mild; but it must be