ial in colds and pulmonary disorders.

* * * * *

ELECAMPANE.

Inula helenium.

A hardy, herbaceous, perennial plant, introduced from Europe, but
growing spontaneously in moist places, by roadsides, and in the vicinity
of gardens where it has been cultivated. Stem from three to five feet
high, thick and strong, branching towards the top; the leaves are from
nine inches to a foot in length, ovate, toothed on the margin, downy
beneath; the flowers are yellow, spreading, and resemble a small
sunflower; the seeds are narrow, four-sided, and crowned with down.

The plants blossom in July and August, and there is but one variety
cultivated.

_Propagation and Culture._--It is generally propagated by dividing the
roots; but may be grown from seeds, which are sown just after ripening.
The plants should be set in rows two feet asunder, and a foot from each
other in the rows.

_Use._--Elecampane is cultivated for its roots, which are carminative,
sudorific, tonic, and alleviating in pulmonary diseases. They are in
their greatest perfection when of two years' growth.

* * * * *

HOARHOUND.

Marrubium vulgare.

Hoarhound is a hardy, herbaceous, perennial plant, introduced from
Europe, and naturalized to a considerable extent in localities where it
has been once cultivated. Stem hoary, about two feet high; leaves
round-ovate; flowers white; seeds small, of an angular-ovoid form and
grayish-brown color.

_Propagation and Cultivation._--The plant prefers a rich, warm soil; and
is generally propagated by dividing its long, creeping roots, but may
also be raised from seeds. When once established, it will grow almost
spontaneously, and yield abundantly.

_Gathering and Use._--The plants are cut for use as they come into
flower; and, if required, the foliage may be cut twice in the season.

The leaves possess a strong and somewhat unpleasant odor, and their
taste is "bitter, penetrating, and durable." The plant has long been
esteemed for its efficacy in colds and pulmonary consumption.

* * * * *

HYSSOP.

Hyssopus officinalis.

Hyssop is a hardy, evergreen, dwarfish, aromatic shrub, from the south
of Europe.

Three kinds are cultivated, as follow:--

COMMON OR BLUE-FLOWERING.

More generally found in gardens than either of the following varieties.
The stems are square and tender at first, but afterwards become round