AGAVE AMERICANA.

Great American Aloe.

CLASS VI. ORDER I.

HEXANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Six Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This tall and stately plant has ever been regarded, in this country, as an object of sufficient interest and curiosity to merit an exposure in the form of an exhibition; whilst in the southern parts of Spain and Portugal they are so abundant as to form hedges, by way of barriers to repress the inroads of cattle. There are several very slight varieties; one of whose leaves are edged with yellow, but the same in every other respect. Miller enumerates one whose paniculated flowers bear a very different aspect. Cortusus is said to be the first European that possessed this great Aloe, about the year 1561: in 1714 two flowered at Hampton Court, and one at the duke of Buckingham’s. At Friedericksberg, in Denmark, one flowered with 19 branches and 4000 flowers; and one in the king of Prussia’s garden, said to be 40 feet high. They are now more frequently found in bloom, as rarely a year passes without one or more of them being advertised for public inspection. In addition to their grand exterior, they possess many useful properties: Cavanilles, in his Natural History of Valentia, mentions their abundance, and the numbers of people employed in manufacturing them; for, when bruised, separated, and steeped in water, they yield a strong thread, of which all the bags are made in which dollars are imported. The juice of the leaves is said to be used as a succedaneum for soap, and the spungy substance of the stem for tinder. The points of the leaves are by the Indians made use of to head their arrows, whose hard consistence is a good substitute for iron; and the thready character of their fibres furnishes all that is necessary to fasten them. Linnæus has separated this genus from Aloe, from the extension of the stamens and style beyond the corolla, and the resting of the corolla on the germ: they also differ in growth, as all Agaves have their central leaves closely enfoliating and embracing the flower-stem, which, forming in the centre, never appears till they are expanded; it then proceeds with a rapidity that in a few weeks reaches maturity, and when the flowers are past the plant dies. On the contrary, the flower-stem of the Aloe comes out from the side annually from the same plant. Our figure was made from two plants at Kensington Gore, each bearing 2000 flowers, and about 70 years old, belonging to J. Vere, Esq. who perfectly recollects them for above half a century: but in those warmer climes, where they are so abundant, 25 or 30 years are sufficient to bring them to perfection.

PULTENÆA NANA.

Dwarf Pultenæa.

CLASS X. ORDER I.

DECANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Ten Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This lively little Dwarf Pultenæa we have not as yet seen any where but in the conservatory of G. Hibbert, Esq. where, contrasted with many large magnificent plants, its minute and diminutive form made a perfectly unique appearance. When we first observed it, its height did not exceed an inch and a half. Our figure represents the whole plant, which for six months was in progressive constant bloom, and after flowering ripened its seeds freely; an evident proof of the plant being in a state of perfection. It is now three months since the plant perfected its seeds, during which period we have not perceived the least increase in its size. But, notwithstanding this apparent torpidity, it is now exhibiting the buds of its future blossoms. It has been imagined by some to be the Chorizema of Billardiere, a new plant found by that gentleman in New South Wales whilst in search of the unfortunate La Perouse; but, upon comparing it with the figure in that work, we do not find a sufficient resemblance to induce us to regard it as the same plant.

VERBENA MUTABILIS.

Changeable-flowered Vervain.

CLASS II. ORDER I.

DIANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Two Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The native place of the Verbena mutabilis seems rather enveloped in obscurity: by some it is supposed to be indigenous to Peru. It is a beautiful plant, and the most desirable Verbena we are acquainted with, as it is at least six months in successive bloom. It is one of those Verbenas that, differing a little from the general character of that genus, has received various titles from different botanists: by Professor Vahl, in his Enumeratio Plantarum, it is called Stachytarpheta. The present species has been recently figured in the Paradisus Londinensis under the title of Cymburus mutabilis, and probably at some future period it may again receive another title: but until we can find some better path to lead us into the open plain or Information, we shall keep jogging on in the old beaten track, in preference to every crooked turning that may bewilder us into the mazy labyrinth of affected Science. Our figure was made from a fine plant in the nursery of Messrs. Colville.

CORRÆA VIRIDIFLORA.

Green-flowered Corræa.

CLASS VIII. ORDER I.

OCTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Eight Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This green-flowered Corræa is by no means so desirable a plant as the alba, but is the only addition to this genus as yet in cultivation with us, and as such deserving notice. It has been already figured in the Exotic Botany of Dr. Smith, but very imperfectly, as it is there represented with only two divisions in the corolla instead of four, and six antheræ instead of eight—a deficiency we have not met with: and although we have examined a number of living and dried specimens, yet we have always found it perfect in those characters essential to the genus. The only variation we have ever observed has been sometimes a super-abundance of petals in the corolla; (instead of a deficiency) five instead of four, a frequent occurrence in many genera when the plant is in a state of luxuriant growth: and certainly little illustration, but much confusion, might probably arise from giving a figure from any specimen so very defective. We find this genus published by Billardiere under the title Mazeutoxeron—our present figure under the specific of rufum—an excellent specific, were it not a striking feature in every species of this genus, living or dried, that we have as yet seen. Our figure was made from a plant in the collection of G. Hibbert, Esq.

PROTEA CANALICULATA.

Channelled-leaved Protea.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This fine Protea is of recent introduction, within the last four or five years, from the Cape of Good Hope to the gardens of G. Hibbert, Esq. From the particular strong channel on the back of its leaves we have adopted its specific title, and have no doubt that a feature so visible in every stage of the plant will always discriminate it. The leaves are enlivened by such brilliant red stalks, as, in addition to its flower, render it an attractive object: nor is it so difficult to preserve as many of them are; for the greatest of care is requisite to preserve numbers of this fine tribe from the damps of this island, an enemy they are so little accustomed to in their native clime.

PROTEA SPECIOSA.

Showy Protea.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This fine large Protea we believe is not at present in any other collection in Europe, but that of G. Hibbert, esq. It is enumerated in the Hortus Kewensis under the name of Protea speciosa, but the plant itself has been long lost to those gardens. Thunberg, in his dissertation on Protea, describes our plant exactly, under the appellation of speciosa: and, that no doubt might remain with respect to the specific adopted, our figure has been compared with a remarkable fine specimen in the herbarium of A. B. Lambert, esq., sent by Dr. Roxburgh from the Cape of Good Hope under the title of “Protea speciosa of Hottentot Island.” It is undoubtedly one of the grandest of this fine section of Protea; for as a section of this numerous family it will always be better understood than it can possibly be as a discriminative specific. This extended tribe will, we think, admit of at least four or five partitions, but not Generic divisions, for we can by no means agree with those who think every slight variation of sufficient consequence to form new genera; and in this genus think it more objectionable than in any other. The title of Protea being derived from the God Proteus of ever-varying form, the more removed this tribe of plants are in their externa facie from each other, so much the better do they support their mythologic title.

STAPELIA ORBICULARIS.

Orbicular Stapelia.

CLASS V. ORDER II.

PENTANDRIA DIGYNIA. Five Chives. Two Pointals.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

Stamina sub-sessilia, ad nectarium adhærentia. Antheræ bifidæ.

Pistilla. Germina duo, oblonga, acuminata. Styli duo, subulati. Stigma utroque commune, magnum, crassum, pentagonum.

Pericarpium. Folliculi duo, uniloculares, univalves.

Semina numerosa, pappo coronata.

Empalement. Cup five-cleft, sharp, small, and remaining.

Blossom one-petalled, thick, five-parted, pointed, and twisted.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This perfectly new Stapelia we have not met with in any other collection but that of Messrs. Loddige, from whom we received it under the title of orbicularis, a specific derived from the circular centre of the flower a very discriminative appellation; and, although not exclusively the character of this species, is much more distinctly marked in this plant than in any other we have as yet seen. Upon comparing our figure with forty-one species described and figured by Mr. F. Masson, not any affinity could be discerned powerful enough to render a reference by any means requisite: there is a sombre appearance annexed to almost all the flowers of this most curious tribe, and they more resemble pieces of mechanism than the vegetable productions of nature. They require but little water in summer, and still less in winter; should be carefully sheltered from rain and frost, and they will succeed very well, and are easily propagated by slips from the joints, but very rarely seed in this country. Natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and are called Stapelias after a Dutch botanist of the name of Stapel.

SOPHORA SERICEA.

Silky-leaved Sophora.

CLASS X. ORDER I.

DECANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Ten Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This delicate Sophora may literally be said to be an old plant with a new face, as we have been long familiar with the foliage, but entirely unacquainted with its flowers, till very lately we found it in luxuriant bloom (and we believe for the first time in this country) in the conservatory of G. Hibbert, esq. this month (December), probably not the regular period of its inflorescence, but the effect of casualty assisted by the uncommon mildness of the season. It would be a vain endeavour to attempt to do justice to the beautiful shining silky appearance of the leaves; and when aided by its delicate purple flowers, its attraction is equal, if not superior, to any of the genus. The want of freedom in its flowering is a defect not entirely confined to this species only, but is in some degree attached to most Sophoras. It is a native of the Cape of Good Hope, and requires as much air as can with safety be administered to it in this country.

EPIDENDRUM FUSCATUM.

Brown-flowered Epidendrum.

CLASS XX. ORDER I.

GYNANDRIA DIANDRIA. Chives on the Pointals. Two Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Amongst this numerous parasitic tribe there are many whose claim to beauty is by no means powerful, and certainly the present figure has little to boast of in that particular: but the singular and curious structure of their flowers will always render every new species and even distinct varieties desirable, particularly as they are an essential connecting link in the interesting family of the Orchidiæ. We were at first inclined to regard it as the E. fuscatum of Dr. Smith on rare plants; but on comparison with that figure we found it in foliage nearly the same, but so different both in the size and colour of its flowers, that, if it might be regarded as a variety, it must certainly be a very distinct one. It is a native of Jamaica, and as such requires the protection of the stove. From a plant plunged in the tan-bed our drawing was made at the gardens of G. Hibbert, esq.

PROTEA PULCHELLA, Var. speciosa.

Waved-leaved Protea, Speciosa Variety.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Our figure represents so evident a variation of the Protea pulchella, that it probably should be only regarded as a fine large flowering variety; but as it exhibits a strong affinity in the flowers to that fine section of Protea called Speciosa, it is certainly better to denominate it a variety of that species, than to adhere too closely to the appellation of its original, whose specific is of too indiscriminative a character to be adopted any further than the acceptation of it already may have rendered necessary. The only method to avoid confusion in this extended varying tribe in future, will be to make as few species as possible in addition to those already made, unless they can be founded upon some apparent leading feature in the plant. Our drawing was made from the Hibbertian collection.

ERYTHRINA SPECIOSA.

Showy Erythrina.

CLASS XVII. ORDER IV.

DIADELPHIA DECANDRIA. Chives in two sets. Ten chives.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

Empalement. Cup one-leafed, entire and tubular, emarginated on the upper part, the part beneath with little pores containing honey.

Blossom. Butterfly-shaped.

Standard lance-shaped, bowing sideways, ascending, and very long.

Wings nearly egg-shaped and scarcely longer than the tube of the empalement, outside the standard and very small.

Keel straight out, the length of the wings, two-petalled and emarginated.

Chives. Threads in two sets, ten threads joined together beneath, slightly turned inwards, half the length of the standard, unequal, and arrow-headed.

Pointal. Seed-bud with a footstalk awl-shaped, and tapering into the shaft, which is awl-shaped, and of the length of the stamens. Summit terminating simple.

Seed-vessel. A very long pod, and before the seeds are swelled out terminated with a sharp point; of one cell.

Seeds kidney-shaped.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This superb Erythrina was communicated to the author by A. B. Lambert, esq., with whom it flowered in the month of November, for the first time in this kingdom. It is at present treated as a hot-house plant, but Mr. Lambert informs us that it is perfectly hardy, and strikes so freely that, although at present it is a nondescript and very rare plant, it will, doubtless, soon make its appearance in most collections: its splendid flowers and easy culture will soon recommend it into general notice. There are but five species of this genus yet known; the present subject will therefore be a valuable addition to the number. The falling off of the leaves is its only defect, which we have no doubt but a hardier mode of treatment will remove. It is supposed to be a native of South America.

LOBELIA HIRSUTA.

Hairy Lobelia.

CLASS XIX. ORDER VI.

SYNGENESIS MONOGAMIA. Tips united. Flowers simple.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The Lobelias are an extensive family, but in a very confused state at present; not many of them having been described, and almost all that have been figured are blue flowers, a scarce colour in most genera, although so prevalent in this, and most probably to the attraction of this colour is chiefly owing the notice already taken of them: for, as beautiful little annuals, they have an irresistible claim to our attention. Our present subject does not possess the charm of colour, but from its lively white flowers and constant succession of bloom it is well deserving a place in the green-house. Our figure represents an entire plant, taken from the Cape Nursery of Messrs. Middlemist and Wood, near Shepherd’s Bush on the Edgware Road.

EPIDENDRUM LINEARE.

Linear-leaved Epidendrum.

CLASS XX. ORDER I.

GYNANDRIA DIANDRIA. Chives on the Pointal. Two Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

In the Icones of Jacquin we find a figure of this Epidendrum, under the appellation we have adopted, but evidently taken from a dried specimen, with a reference to the Icones of Father Plumier 182, fig. 1. under the title of Heleborine; but on comparison we find no affinity sufficiently powerful to induce us to regard them as representing the same plant. In Plumier’s figure there is no incisure at the end of the leaves, a specific character in our plant; the rest of the figure is also too obscure to admit of comparison. The plant, from its long and slender stalks, acquires a graceful bend when in flower. As a native of Jamaica it requires the tan-bed of the hot-stove for its protection; and, like many other tropical plants, is subject to lose much of its beauty by the loss of the leaves on the lower part of the stem. Our figure was made from the Hibbertian Collection.

DOLICHOS HIRTUS.

Hairy-stemmed Dolichos.

CLASS XVII. ORDER IV.

DIADELPHIA DECANDRIA. Chives in two sets. Ten Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This handsome twining plant was introduced from the Cape of Good Hope to the gardens of G. Hibbert, esq. about the year 1802, and flowered very luxuriantly, but did not perfect any of its seeds nor make any approach towards it, as the flowers with their empalements all fell off together immediately after flowering; and for the last three or four years the plant (although apparently in a healthy state) has not indicated the least appearance of bloom; and we are inclined to think it might possibly succeed better with the careful treatment of the dry stove than with its present situation in the hot-house; and if upon experiment it should prove successful, it would then doubtless become a plant in request by many cultivators who whilst it remains a hot-house plant cannot give it a place in their collection.

This genus approaches so near to that of Phaseolus, that we cannot help thinking one generic title would have been sufficient for them both.

PROTEA ARGENTIFLORA.

Silvery-flowered Protea.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

From the shining silvery appearance of this Protea we have drawn its specific title, although aware of the insurmountable difficulty of doing justice to it: but in so extended a genus it will be frequently impossible to give a discriminating or unoccupied specific from its foliage:—our title may always be ascertained when the plant is in bloom, whether in perfection or not, as the flowers living or dead always retain a shining silvery aspect. It also possesses a most exquisite sweet scent; but its superior fragrance only exists whilst the flowers are in perfection; as after that period it grows fainter, and is at last scentless. Our figure was made from the collection of G. Hibbert, esq.

PÆONIA SUFFRUTICOSA; Var. flore purpureo.

Shrubby Pæony; Purple-flowered Variety.

CLASS XIII. ORDER V.

POLYANDRIA PENTAGYNIA. Many Chives. Five Pointals.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

This elegant plant is the purple variety mentioned in our last Vol. Pl. 373. and flowered at the same time, with completely double flowers, and so equal in point of beauty, that we hesitated some time before we could determine to which we should give the preference. But had we seen the purple one in its present semi-double state, it would undoubtedly have claimed precedence, as well from its preserved botanic character, as its superior beauty. The singular versatility of these plants we were entirely unacquainted with when we figured the rose-coloured one; as, since that period, we have seen them in bloom with single flowers, the following year with double ones; and again the year after we found this purple one in the semi-double state which our figure represents, the plant then bearing five-and-twenty flowers in full perfection, forming a coup-d’œil superior to any shrub we have ever seen.

LINUM TRIGYNUM.

Three-styled Golden Flax.

CLASS V. ORDER V.

PENTANDRIA PENTAGYNIA. Five Chives. Five Pointals.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This perfectly new Linum is by far the most showy of the genus, and illumines all the gloomy months of winter with its fine large flowers, whose brilliance is not often surpassed even in the height of summer, when Flora reigns with undiminished lustre. It has been hitherto regarded as a hot-house plant, but is now found to succeed much better with the careful treatment of the green-house. It is published by Capt. Hardwicke in his enumeration of the plants of Sireenagur in the Asiatic Annual Register of 1800, and was found by that gentleman on the sides of the mountains in fine bloom in the month of December, and from whom it received the specific title of trigynum. Its provincial name is said to be Gul Ashorfee; from Gul a flower and Ashorfee gold, a coin current in India of the value of 2l. sterling. There is a figure of this Linum in the Exotic Botany of Dr. Smith, copied from a drawing, and represented with deeply serrated leaves; a character very different from any of the living plants we have as yet seen in bloom, not one of them exhibiting the slightest vestige of a serrature on their foliage. Our figure was made from a plant in luxuriant bloom at the nursery of Messrs. Whitley and Brames.

ALBUCA FASTIGIATA.

Level-topped Albuca.

CLASS VI. ORDER I.

HEXANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Six Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This genus approaches so near to Ornithogalum, that they may easily be mistaken for each other; the only visible distinction resting in the unexpanding character of the three inner petals, or calyx; for opinions vary with respect to their denomination—Jussieu, an able botanist (through all the divisions of this family), regarding that as the empalement which we, following Linnæus, describe as petals. In the Species Plantarum of Willdenow we find our plant enumerated under the specific title of fastigiata, with a technical description annexed to it. From a plant in the garden of G. Hibbert, esq. about three years ago, we made a drawing of this Albuca, but are inclined to think it rather scarce, not having seen it since that period.

DIOSMA ERICÆFOLIA.

Heath-leaved Diosma.

CLASS V. ORDER I.

PENTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Five Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This new species of Diosma so nearly resembles the genus Erica in its foliage, that, regarding it as an unequivocally good specific reference, we have adopted it. The only place in which we have as yet seen it was at the Cape nursery last December, where we observed several plants in fine bloom; and although not showy, they are certainly estimable from their neat and delicate appearance, particularly at a season when so many of the beauties of vegetation are in a state of quiescence. Upon comparing our figure with a fine dried specimen of the D. hirsuta in the herbarium of A. B. Lambert, esq., we find so powerful a resemblance as induces us to regard our plant as only a variation of culture, more especially as in the magnifier slight vestiges of the hairs on the edges of the leaves are still discernible. But no fear need be entertained of any mode of culture rendering our present specific term impervious to the naked eye. There is a dotted or punctured character which pervades the under surface of the foliage of most Diosmas, many of which, when rubbed, emit a powerful odour. The present subject, although deficient in both those respects, still possesses a peculiarity that we have thought deserving a magnified place in the dissections. It is a hardy green-house plant, and a native of the Cape of Good Hope.

ACHANIA MOLLIS.

Soft-haired-leaved Achania.

CLASS XVI. ORDER VI.

MONADELPHIA POLYANDRIA. Threads united. Many Chives.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This handsome hot-house plant is certainly an old one, having been a sojourner with us near thirty years, but has not as yet been figured in any publication that we know of:—a neglect most probably resulting from the singularity of its unclosing flowers; so uncommon a character naturally conveying an idea that the plant was in an imperfect state. Under this prejudice it has lost the charm of novelty, and many a less attractive object has been preferred before it. This genus approaches so close to the genera of Hibiscus, Althea, Malva, &c. that it must certainly be considered as a very near relation to that family. Its foliage is frequently deciduous on the lower part of the stem; a defect to which stove plants in general are but too subject. It is a native of South America and the West India Islands, was found by Dr. Houston in Jamaica in 1731, and introduced by B. Bewick, esq. in 1780. It flowers from July till the end of the year.

PROTEA REPENS.

Creeping Protea.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The appearance of this Protea, as cultivated in the gardens, is diametrically opposite to its natural character, which, as its specific indicates, is repent or creeping; instead of which, the branches of the plant are bent from their natural habit, forced as upright as possible, and fastened to a stick; in which situation the flowers only would compare with our figure. But so averse is it to this confined mode of treatment, that, as soon as the branches are liberated, they instantly take the direction most natural to them, and which is certainly the most graceful. Although repens is the more general title of this Protea, yet we have heard it sometimes called amplexicaulis, a name given by some cultivators to a plant whose foliage is so nearly resembling the one now figured, that, when it arrives at a flowering state, it will most probably prove to be no more than a variation of culture. It is a difficult matter to say in what stage the flower is most beautiful, whether in the bud state, before the pointals are released, or afterwards. From their long confinement, the pollen adheres so strongly to them, that when relieved they appear like the antheræ. Our drawing was made at the Hibbertian collection from a plant in fine bloom in the month of February.

URTICA BACCIFERA.

Berry-bearing Nettle.

CLASS XXI. ORDER IV.

MONŒCIA TETRANDRIA. Chives and Pointals separate. Four Chives.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

* Masculi flores.

* Feminei flores vel in eadem vel distincta planta.

* Male flowers.

* Female flowers in the same, or in separate plants.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This plant is most completely armed in all directions, and known by the appellation of the Horrid Nettle. The fierceness of its exterior evinces grandeur, and the bright red flower-stems combine some share of beauty: and notwithstanding its ferocious aspect, the Common Wild Hedge Nettle suffers a light approach with less impunity than this terrific plant; thus proving the old axiom of an open enemy, however powerful, being less injurious than a pretended friend, whose insidious character, like the Hedge Nettle, unheeded stings. In the Hortus Schœnbrunnensis of Jacquin it is described and figured, and also in the Icones of Plumier, p. 259, tab. 260, who gives it the additional specific of arborescens: and there is but little doubt of its forming a tree-like appearance in the Antilles and Blue Mountain Valley of Jamaica, where it is indigenous. The figure represents the upper part of a large specimen, communicated by A. B. Lambert, esq. with whom it flowered in the summer of 1804.

POLYGALA MIXTA.

Mixt Polygala.

CLASS XVII. ORDER III.

DIADELPHIA OCTANDRIA. Two Brotherhoods. Eight Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Amongst the numerous introductions of novelty to the gardens of G. Hibbert, esq. the Hesteria section of the genus Polygala (although not splendid) are all of them particularly desirable, from their lively, long, and (of this species) we may say continual bloom; it having been seen in flower throughout the whole year. There is a variety of it with white flowers of equal durability, and so perfect a fac-simile in every other particular, that a separate figure will by no means be requisite, especially as in the winter season the purple flowers are sometimes almost bleached by the cold, and the distinction in consequence less apparent. It is well known by the cultivators under the appellation of mixta; a specific given to it from the promiscuous manner in which the flowers and leaves are profusely mixt together.

LACHENALIA FLAVA.

Yellow-flowered Lachenalia.

CLASS VI. ORDER I.

HEXANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Six Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This Lachenalia may be regarded as a perfectly new species, there not being a figure of it extant, nor is it enumerated in the Species Plantarum of Willdenow. We were at first inclined to have called it ringens, from the wide-gaping character of the mouth of the flower: but as so many of this genus have received a specific title in reference to their colour, the appellation of flava in the present instance will doubtless be generally as well accepted. The figure was made, from the only plant that has as yet flowered in this country, at the nursery of Mr. Williams of Turnham Green, who informs me that he has had the plant three or four years, but has found it difficult to flower, and slow of increase.

BANKSIA SPINULOSA.

Thorny-leaved Banksia.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The flowers of this Banksia bear a considerable degree of affinity to the B. ericæfolia already figured in Pl. 156, but very distinct in the foliage. From the small thorns on the upper part of the leaves it has acquired the specific title of spinulosa. It is not very often seen in bloom, although an old plant; which is accounted for in the slowness of its growth, and the size it generally attains to before it becomes a flowering plant: and as this character is prevalent through the whole genus, it no doubt prevents them from being so generally cultivated as they would otherwise be; since, when in flower, they are certainly both curious and beautiful. Our figure was taken from a plant in the collection of His Grace the Duke of Northumberland, at Sion-House near Brentford; where, under the care of Mr. Hoy, several fine species of this genus are in very great perfection.

EUGENIA MALACCENSIS.

Malay Apple Tree.

CLASS XII. ORDER I.

ICOSANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Twenty Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The figure of this Eugenia was made from the finest plant in this country in the hot-house of G. Hibbert, esq. where we were in hopes it would have perfected its fruit; but were disappointed, as in a very forward state towards ripening it fell off. But, as far as it was advanced, we have represented it, as in this climate it might probably never arrive at greater maturity, unless a larger house were constructed for it: otherwise the degree of heat necessary to preserve the smaller tropical plants would always be subject to injure those of a large size, from the natural extension of their roots approaching too near the flues. But although so much care is required for it in this clime, in the warmer regions of Macassar, Amboyna, and the Moluccas, where it is indigenous, not the least attention is necessary; for, such is the extreme indolence of the natives, that it is imagined, if any care had been requisite for its preservation, it would soon have been lost for want of it. In the Hortus Malabaricus of Rheede there is an uncoloured figure of it, with descriptions, in which it is said to be a fruit-tree of great general utility to the country from its extreme abundance, grateful taste, and salubrious quality, flowering twice in the year. The fruit in an unripe state is of a bitterish and rather astringent character; but, when ripe, of a fine flavour, exceedingly wholesome, and beneficial as an allayer of inflammation in feverish habits. The flowers are by the Dutch at Amboyna preserved, and frequently eaten by way of salad. It is said to form a tall umbrageous tree, and when in fine bloom must certainly be an object of great beauty.

LASIOPETALUM QUERCIFOLIUM.

Oak-leaved Lasiopetalum.

CLASS V. ORDER I.

PENTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Five Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Throughout almost all the plants as yet introduced from New South Wales, there is a strong marked leading feature that proclaims them of Botany Bay extraction, either in the upright strictness of their habit, a hard harsh character in the foliage, or a rough and rusty exterior. Of the last description is our present figure; but it is nevertheless a very handsome plant, and the only addition (to this otherwise solitary genus) as yet in cultivation with us. Labillardiere, in his Description of New South Wales, has given a figure of a plant under the title of Lasiopetalum triphyllum, very much resembling our quercifolium—probably a variety of it—or, if intended to represent the same plant, there must be a considerable inaccuracy in the delineation. Our figure was taken from a plant at the nursery of Messrs. Colville.

LACHENALIA SESSILIFLORA.

Sessile-flowered Lachenalia.

CLASS VI. ORDER I.

HEXANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Six Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This Lachenalia is perfectly new, an attraction that may counterbalance its want of speciosity. From the total absence of footstalks to the flowers we have derived its unoccupied specific title. Professor Jacquin has figured many handsome species of this genus not yet introduced to this country, and amongst the number two equally sessile with our plant, but in no other particular resembling it. From a drawing made for the collection of G. Hibbert, esq. in 1803 our figure was taken; since which period we have not seen any vestige of the plant, and therefore imagine that, like many other Cape bulbs, it is lost to us for the present: but it probably may soon reappear amongst the frequent importations we are in the constant habit of receiving from that inexhaustible botanic mine.

PROTEA TERETIFOLIA.

Cylindric-leaved Protea.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This little Protea is more desirable, by way of contrast to those splendid imbricated species, than for any beauty it possesses, and exhibits powerfully the great diversity of character annexed to this numerous genus. Attached to the dissections is part of the branch of a minor variety, and which is by some considered as specifically distinct: and were extension our object, it certainly might be made a separate species, from the difference of its character after flowering, the larger one forming a cone the size of an egg; which the lesser one does not. It also differs in the manner of its growth; but only in the dried specimens which we have seen that have been collected from old plants at the Cape; and in them the small variety forms its branches after the manner of a corymbus, and the plant has thence received the appellation of corymbosa. But had we given a separate figure of it, we could not (without making an awkward apology) have adopted a specific title whose characteristic appearance it might never acquire in this climate, and which our figure would not have possessed. By placing it amongst the variations these objections are obviated, and the appearance of repetition avoided: a desirable object in a genus so extended as Protea; and we shall take every opportunity of abbreviating as much as possible the number of slight varieties, particularly when their attractions are not considerable. Our drawing was made from plants in the Hibbertian collection.

MALUS JAPONICA.

Scarlet-flowering Japan Apple.

CLASS XII. ORDER V.

ICOSANDRIA PENTAGYNIA. Twenty Chives. Five Pointals.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This handsome fruit-tree will doubtless soon become an object of general cultivation in this country, from the brilliance and duration of its fine scarlet blossoms. It is perfectly hardy, but flowers with most freedom in the shelter of the green-house. The fruit is about the size and shape of a walnut. Why or wherefore Pyrus is the generic title adopted for Apple we were at first at a loss to conjecture, but upon investigation find it built on the egotism too inseparable from human nature, and must confess ourselves very sorry to be under the necessity of placing the defect to its original source; the celebrated Linnæus, who it appears altered it from Malus (the genus of Tournefort) to Pyrus, for no other reason but that his own system (unquestionably the best in almost every other particular) might not bear any resemblance to that of Tournefort. Jussieu in the Introduction to his Genera Plantarum, commenting on this very subject, concludes with this most excellent remark: “Such is the love of undivided praise!” We have therefore returned the genus back to its old standard, not through any desire to alter, but absolute necessity; regarding the absurdity of its nomination under the generic title of Pyrus as already too long retained; for whilst the tree is known by its fruit, that fruit should certainly be called by its name.

For the introduction of this fine plant we are indebted to the Hon. C. Greville, in whose conservatory at Paddington it first flowered, and from whence our figure was taken.

PÆONIA PAPAVERACEA.

Poppy-like Pæony.

CLASS XIII. ORDER VI.

POLYANDRIA HEXAGYNIA. Many Chives. Six Pointals.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

For this beautiful species of Pæonia we are indebted to Lady Hume, in whose select collection at Wormley-bury, Herts, it flowered for the first time in this country. When we figured the fine purple variety, we little thought of having so soon to compare it with a rival of such magnitude, and of equal beauty. The bright radiated purple at the base is a great relief to the surrounding whiteness of the petals, that would otherwise stand in much greater need of the assistance of art for a strength of shadow, that would unavoidably injure their delicacy. The more we become acquainted with this attractive genus, the greater latitude of growth we find attached to it, which appears to defy all systematic rule, varying in some species from Digynia, or two pointals, up to six or more. The present one differs more than all the rest, having six pointals and seed-buds attached together, and enshrined within a globular exterior, resembling a Poppy, and from whence we have drawn its specific title; for, as a distinct species it may certainly be considered with great propriety; and most likely the distinction will by some be thought of sufficient consequence to license a generic division: but in a genus so mutable, were the alteration still greater, whilst it could be recognised as a Pæony, we should regret to meet it under any other title.

DIOSMA OVATA.

Oval-leaved Diosma.

CLASS V. ORDER I.

PENTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Five Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Among the scented foliage characteristic of so many of the Diosmas the present species is by far the most powerful, and is the plant called Buku, so much used by the Hottentots, at the Cape of Good Hope, by way of perfume. They mix it with grease, and anoint themselves with it so profusely that a stranger can scarcely endure the effluvia of it. The D. serrata also possesses a similar scent, and is most likely used occasionally for the same purpose by the natives. Its scent, when rubbed, remains a long time, and by some is thought very pleasant, by others as disagreeable: a difference of opinion in general attending all very strong perfumes. The foliage has a very neat appearance, and the clear white flowers give it a lively aspect. Like several others of the genus, it blooms in winter and spring. Our figure was made from the Clapham collection.

PROTEA DIVARICATA.

Straddling-leaved Protea.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This very distinct species of Protea we have not seen in any other collection than that of G. Hibbert, esq. nor is it as yet amongst the numerous fine dried specimens in the herbarium of A. B. Lambert, esq. and certainly may be considered at present as a rare plant. From the firm luxuriance of the foliage, and woody character of its stem, we should be inclined to regard it as a plant not difficult to preserve; and considering the abundance of its leaves, the flowers are comparatively few: and very likely this circumstance may best account for its present scarcity; for, amongst the various beauties of this extensive tribe, numerous flowers, or speciosity of appearance, are the best recommendations to particular attention.

GOODENIA TENELLA.

Slender Goodenia.

CLASS V. ORDER I.

PENTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Five Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This delicate new Goodenia represents the entire plant, as communicated to the author by the Comtesse de Vandes, in whose choice collection near Bayswater it flowered for the first time. It is certainly one of the most graceful plants hitherto introduced from New South Wales. Its general exterior approaches very near a generic division of Goodenia called Velleia, and is by Labillardiere figured under the title Velleia trinervis. The abundance and succession of its bright yellow blossom, joined to its light an airy appearance, will no doubt insure it a place in most collections.

LYTHRUM FRUTICOSUM.

Shrubby Lythrum.

CLASS XII. ORDER I.

DODECANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Twelve Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This plant seems to have been hitherto but imperfectly known, having been figured among Dr. Roxburgh’s Coromandel Plants, vol. i. p. 20, under the title of Grislea tomentosa. It has recently received another new generic title; but upon examination we find it to be the Lythrum of Linnæus; in which opinion the author is sanctioned by the concurrence of some of the ablest botanists of the present day. This handsome shrub is described in the 4th vol. of the Asiatic Researches, under the native title of D.hawry, and is said to grow wild on the hills and banks of rivulets in the northern part of Hindostan, where it is as much esteemed for its utility as its beautiful red flowers, which are gathered both for the use of dyers and apothecaries; the latter giving an infusion of them as a cooling medicine. When used in dyeing, they lose their colour, and only yield a slight brownish tincture to the water; so that the benefit derived from them when used with [A]Aal seems to depend solely on their action as an astringent, and which appears to be confirmed by the substituting of [B]Purwas, a strong astringent, as an equivalent for the flowers of the D.hawry. It is at present treated as a hot-house plant, but would in all probability succeed very well in the careful treatment of the green-house. The figure was taken from a fine plant in the nursery of Messrs. Colville.

ALOE ARBORESCENS.

Tree Aloe.

CLASS VI. ORDER I.

HEXANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Six Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This fine tall plant has been but rarely seen in bloom near town. The specimen from which our figure was made, was sent to London by the Rev. George Reading Leathes, from his collection at Bury St. Edmund’s, to his friend sir T. G. Cullum, bart. and obligingly communicated to us by that gentleman. It grows twelve feet high, and is considered as one of the loftiest of the Aloe tribe (the dichotoma and ferox excepted), the former of which is said to arrive sometimes to the enormous height of twelve feet in circumference round the stem, twenty feet high, and four hundred round the extremity of the branches. Colonel Paterson, in his Travels in Africa, mentions, that after crossing the Cousie or Sand River he visited a European and his family, who with their cattle had no other tenement but what nature had furnished them with in the Aloe dichotoma.

PROTEA CORONATA.

Crown-flowered Protea.

CLASS IV. ORDER I.

TETRANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Four Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This Protea may be regarded as an intermediate character between the P. mellifera and that fine section of Protea speciosa; and certainly, in point of beauty, deserves to be ranked among that showy division: but as the principal leading feature in the Speciosas exists in the powerful feathery fringe upon the edges of the imbrication, and the present one possessing so very slight a characteristic of that description, we could not with propriety rank it amongst them. Its affinity to the P. mellifera is only in the honey-bearing character of its flowers, which, like that species, contain a quantity of nectariferous juice. The unoccupied term of coronata is adopted, from the resemblance its imbrication bears to the form of a crown, and which is more apparent in this species than in any other as yet in cultivation with us. Our figure was made from the Clapham collection.

OPHRYS ARACHNOIDES.

Spider-like Ophrys.

CLASS XX. ORDER I.

GYNANDRIA DIANDRIA. Chives on the Pointal. Two Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This interesting species of the Orchideæ family was sent from Switzerland, by Dr. Messear, to the gardens of Isaac Swainson, esq. at Twickenham, where it flowers annually. It is said to be a native of Britain, France, Portugal, &c. and is known by the appellation of Ophrys arachnoides, or spider-like, but is generally thought to bear a stronger analogy to the humble bee. In the Flora Londinensis of Curtis, there is a figure under the title of Ophrys fuciflora very much resembling our plant in most particulars, except in the colour of the flower, which is very different. The same plant is again figured in Dr. Smith’s English Botany, under the specific of aranifera; and thus the plant is known both as a spider and a drone. The arachnoides may therefore be considered, if not a distinct species, as a very strong marked variety, and is at present a scarce plant. It remains so long in bloom, that the author observed it at the nursery of Messrs. Whitley and Brames, three weeks after he had made the drawing, nearly as perfect as the figure represents.

OPHRYS MYODES.

Fly-like Ophrys.

CLASS XX. ORDER I.

GYNANDRIA DIANDRIA. Chives on the Pointal. Two Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Amongst the Alpine plants of G. Hibbert, esq. we met with this curious little insectiferous plant, and which, like the preceding figure, is said to be indigenous to almost all Europe. It is figured in the English Botany of Dr. Smith, but apparently from a taller plant, and differs in the colour of the body. It is also represented in the Botanical Magazine, of a higher stature, but nearly the same in colour. Variations probably the mere effect of climate, and a different mode of culture. As they all bear an unequivocal resemblance to the fly, so exact a representation of ever so humble a species of animated nature will no doubt be always thought deserving a place in every collection.

HIBBERTIA CRENATA.

Scolloped-leaved Hibbertia.

CLASS XIII. ORDER X.

POLYANDRIA DECAGYNIA. Many Chives. Ten Pointals.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This is an addition to the genus Hibbertia, but differs from the H. volubilis in having ten pointals instead of five; and will most likely, when more of the genus are in cultivation with us, form a section under the title of decagynia, and the original of the genus as pentagynia: a mode frequently adopted, to prevent that confusion too often attending the formation of new genera. Under this arrangement the genus of Hibbertia will be considerably enlarged, and certainly no genus more deserves it than that which bears the name of such a liberal promoter of botanic science.

Our figure represents the entire plant, from the nursery of Messrs. Colville, where it was first raised from seeds received from New South Wales.

YUCCA GLORIOSA.

Superb Yucca.

CLASS VI. ORDER I.

HEXANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Six Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Of this genus of plants there are as yet known but four species. The present one, from its specific title, might naturally be supposed to possess a magnificent exterior of unrivalled beauty; which is by no means the case: for although it is a grand plant when in fine bloom, the term of gloriosa must certainly be regarded as a metaphysical hyperbole, very inapplicable to any plant ever so beautiful. It is indigenous to North America, and of great utility to the natives, who make cords from the stringy texture of the leaves, and use it in the fabrication of their houses, to fasten the ends of them together. Their swinging beds, called Hamacks, are also said to be made of the same materials; and most probably the sailor’s bed, so well known by the appellation of Hammock, derives its title from the Hamack of the Indians. It is easily increased from the young shoots, which become flowering plants in about five years in the open ground: but if kept in the green-house, it might remain for twenty years without blooming, for want of sufficient air and sun to bring it to maturity.

Our figure are was made from a plant ten feet high, in luxuriant bloom, at Hedsor Lodge, the seat of Lord Boston.

PSORALEA PINNATA.

Winged-leaved Psoralea.

CLASS XVII. ORDER IV.

DIADELPHIA DECANDRIA. Two Brotherhoods. Ten Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The Psoralea pinnata is a very ornamental plant for the conservatory, and certainly deserves a coloured representation. At present there are only two uncoloured engravings of it extant: one in the Flora tetrapetala Rivinus, No. 5.; the other in Hermann’s Hortus Lugdunensis, tab. 273. The Psoraleas are a well marked natural genus, and appear much more characteristic of each other than many of the Papilonaceous genera.

Our drawing was made from a fine specimen received from the collection of the Hon. W. Irby.

SERAPIAS CORDIGERA.

Heart-bearing Serapias.

CLASS XX. ORDER I.

GYNANDRIA DIANDRIA. Chives on the Pointal. Two Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

For this luxuriant specimen of the Serapias cordigera we are indebted to the Right Hon. the Marquis of Blandford. It is a rare plant, of a curious structure but very sombre aspect. It is one of those numerous divisions of the class Gynandria approaching the genus Ophrys on the one side, and Neottia on the other. From the Ophrys it is not easily distinguished; but from Neottia it is separated by the difference of its habit. This plant is well known by the title of cordigera, a specific derived from the resemblance the lip of the nectarium is supposed to bear to the shape of a heart: but the analogy is certainly not very powerful. The flowers remain a considerable time in perfection. It is indigenous to Spain, Barbary, Italy, &c.

MELALEUCA DIOSMÆFOLIA.

Diosma-leaved Melaleuca.

CLASS XVIII. ORDER IV.

POLYADELPHIA POLYANDRIA. Threads in many Sets. Many Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This perfectly new species of Melaleuca was sent to us by Mr. J. Milne, botanic gardener at Fonthill, who is very successful in the cultivation of new plants. The punctured or dotted character on the under side of the leaves gives it an affinity to the Diosma tribe, as does also its scented foliage, which when rubbed emits a grateful aromatic odour; and which the leaves retain in some degree when dried. The flowers, although not splendid, are perhaps equally estimable from the rarity of their colour, which is a bright green when in perfection; but in retiring they acquire a yellower tint. It is a native of New Holland, and requires the careful treatment of the green-house.

LINUM VENUSTUM.

Graceful Linum.

CLASS V. ORDER V.

PENTANDRIA PENTAGYNIA. Five Chives. Five Pointals.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

This fine new Linum was raised from seed by Mr. J. Bell, in whose garden near Brentford it has flowered for the first time in England. It is nearest in affinity to the L. hirsutum of Jacquin, under which specific title the seed was received by Mr. Bell. The flowers when dead or dried lose their fine pinky tint, and acquire a blueish colour, the same as it first appears with in the bud state. It might then compare with Jacquin’s figure in point of colour, but would be too far removed in its appearance for us to have adopted the specific of hirsutum with any propriety. We may therefore with justice regard it as a beautiful nondescript species. It is a native of Mount Caucasus, flowers in June and July, and seeds so freely that it will no doubt be soon abundantly cultivated.

CRINUM LATIFOLIUM.

Broad-leaved Crinum.

CLASS VI. ORDER I.

HEXANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Six Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The Crinum latifolium is certainly one of the most attractive of the genus, as, in addition to the fine red colour of its flowers, it possesses an aromatic odour of agreeable fragrance. It is a bulb-bearer, as are all of this genus, although several of them have been placed erroneously amongst the genus Amaryllis, which does not bear bulbs. The genus Crinum, at present a short one, will therefore, with a good grace, admit a few additions; whilst that of Amaryllis, already very extended, will receive no injury by a slight curtailment. It is a native of the dry sandy parts of the East Indies, and was introduced by Mr. Lambert in the year 1803, but has not flowered till this summer—a period of four years. But there is little doubt of its now blooming annually, as it is not uncommon for bulbs imported from a great distance to enjoy a state of quiescence after their arrival. Our figure was made from a fine plant in luxuriant bloom in the hot-stove of J. Vere, esq.

FRAGARIA INDICA.

Indian Strawberry.

CLASS XXII. ORDER V.

ICOSANDRIA POLYGYNIA. Twenty Chives. Many Pointals.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This new species of Fragaria, from the lively yellow flowers and brilliance of its fine red fruit, is desirable as an ornamental plant, but is in no other respect estimable, from the insipidity of its fruit, which is entirely destitute of flavour. It is a native of the north-east parts of Bengal. Our figure was made from the only plant that has as yet flowered in England, in the gardens of the Honourable C. Greville.

VACCINIUM NITIDUM.

Shining-leaved Whortle-berry.

CLASS VIII. ORDER I.

OCTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Eight Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The Vaccinium nitidum is one of the handsomest species, but not so often to be met with as many of the genus. It is nearly allied in its foliage to the V. crassifolium; for, if leaves of both were detached, and mixt together, they might be easily mistaken. The habits of the plants are, however, very distinct, as is also the shape of the flowers. During the month of May and beginning of June this plant is in the greatest perfection. After that period the flowers lose much of their fine red colour. Our figure was made from a beautiful little shrub, above a foot high, in the nursery of Messrs. Whitley and Brames.

CINCHONA CARIBÆA.

West India Bark-tree.

CLASS V. ORDER II.

PENTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Five Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This specimen of the Cinchona Caribæa, or Jesuits Bark of Jamaica, was communicated to the author by A. B. Lambert, esq. who raised it from seed, and with whom it has flowered for the first time in this kingdom. Opinions are various as to the time and means by which the medicinal virtues of the Peruvian bark were first discovered; but as the discovery of most very useful things is generally the effect of chance, Geoffroy’s account of it (as given in the Medical Botany of Dr. Woodville) is certainly the most natural, who states it to have been occasioned by some Cinchona trees having been blown into a pool of water, and lying there till the water became so bitter that nobody would drink it, till one of the neighbouring inhabitants being seized with a violent paroxysm of fever, and having no other water, drank of this, and was perfectly cured. He prevailed on some of his friends, who were ill, to make use of the same remedy, and it proved successful. But the use of it was little known till the year 1638, when a signal cure being performed on the Countess del Cinchon, the lady of a Spanish viceroy at Lima, (from whom it derives its generic title) it came into general use, and a large quantity of the bark was by that lady distributed amongst the Jesuits, in whose hands it increased in reputation, and was by them first introduced into Europe. The Caribæan species is said to be an excellent substitute for the Peruvian bark, and therefore a most valuable acquisition to us; as Mr. Lambert, in his description of the genus Cinchona, informs us that well grounded fears are entertained of the Peruvian species being some day lost to us, as, from the extreme decortication they have experienced, they are nearly extinct in those parts where they were formerly most abundant.

DIANTHUS ALPINUS.

Alpine Pink.

CLASS VI. ORDER II.

DECANDRIA DIGYNIA. Ten Chives. Two Pointals.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The Dianthus alpinus is a very scarce plant, little known, and rarely to be met with in any collection, although its beauty renders it deserving a place in every one, and its size would never exclude it from any. Our figure represents the entire plant, from the collection of Isaac Swainson, esq. who raised it from seed which he received from Germany. The only coloured representation of it extant is in the Flora Austriaca of Jacquin, from a native specimen, and of no greater magnitude than our figure represents—a diminutive stature, particularly characteristic of the true Alpine pink.

DAHLIA PINNATA NANA.

Dwarf Winged-leaved Dahlia.

CLASS XIX. ORDER II.

SYNGENESIA POLYGAMIA SUPERFLUA. Tips united. Superfluous Pointals.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This double-flowered dwarf Dahlia is certainly the most attractive of the genus. It is supposed to be only a variety of the D. pinnata, but the variation is almost powerful enough to constitute a species; as, besides the difference in its flowers, we have never found it arrive to more than half the height of the pinnata, although we have seen it every autumn for four years in luxuriant bloom. At present it is a scarce plant, and appears to be not quite so hardy as the taller species, nor so easily increased. Our figure was made from a plant in the collection of the Right Hon. Lady Holland, at Holland House, Kensington.

NICOTIANA GLUTINOSA.

Clammy Tobacco.

CLASS V. ORDER I.

PENTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Five Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This species of Nicotiana is called the Spanish Tobacco; and although we cannot exactly ascertain whether it is cultivated for the purpose of manufacturing into tobacco or snuff, yet there is little doubt of that being the case. The general appearance of this species very much resembles the common Tobacco plant, so well known. The most ostensible difference appears to exist in the glutinous character of the present species, whose stalks, leaves, and flowers are beset by numerous little glands, that emit a viscid juice. There is not much beauty attached to it; but, as a scarce and unfigured species, it well deserves a representation, as would any species of a genus that forms so considerable a branch in the commerce of a mercantile country. Our figure was made from a fine specimen received from A. B. Lambert, esq.

MELALEUCA SALICIFOLIA.

Willow-leaved Melaleuca.

CLASS XVIII. ORDER IV.

POLYADELPHIA POLYANDRIA. Threads in many Sets. Many Chives.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Very few species of plants revolt so much in appearance from their original genus as the present one, whose exterior bears very little resemblance to Melaleuca, although, upon examination, it perfectly accords in every particular. It is a native of New Holland, and, we are informed, was first raised from seed by Mr. Barr, nurseryman at Ball’s Pond, Islington.

Our figure was made from a plant in fine bloom at the nursery of Messrs. Whitley and Brames.

PÆONIA DAURICA.

Dauric Pæony.

CLASS XIII. ORDER II.

POLYANDRIA DIGYNIA. Many Chives. Two Pointals.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This fine Pæony is at present a scarce plant; nor is there any figure of it extant, if not in the Flora Russica of Dr. Pallas. The specimen our figure represents was received from Mr. J. Bell, who raised it from seed, and with whom it has flowered for the first time in this country. It may with propriety be ranked among the most attractive of the herbaceous species. The flowers expand in the early part of summer; and from the cold climate whence it is indigenous, little doubt need be entertained of its resisting our winter, if it can but endure the sudden changes of weather to which this island is subject; a transition that frequently proves more fatal to plants the natives of a cold northern clime, than to those of southern origin.

XERANTHEMUM HERBACEUM.

Herbaceous Eternal Flower.

CLASS XIX. ORDER II.

SYNGENESIS POLYGAMIA SUPERFLUA. Tips united. Superfluous Pointals.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This handsome species of Xeranthemum may be regarded as truly herbaceous, as the plant not only dies down annually, but even whilst living keeps constantly sending up fresh shoots from the root. The white appearance of the leaves is owing to their being enveloped by a kind of wool: but there are two varieties; the one whose foliage is almost without this woolly coat, and the other entirely divested of it, and of a rich green colour; but in every other particular the plants are all exactly alike.

Our figure was made from a small plant in fine flower in the conservatory of G. Hibbert, esq.

BROUSSONETIA PAPYRIFERA.

Paper Mulberry.

CLASS XXII. ORDER IV.

DIŒCIA TETRANDRIA. Chives and Pointals on different Plants. Four Chives.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

* Masculi flores.

* Feminei flores.

* Male flowers.

* Female flowers.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This useful plant is the Morus papyrifera of Linnæus, but certainly would not have been so called by him, had both, the male and female plant come under his inspection, as it does not belong either to the class or order of the Mulberry. Neither of the plants, when in bloom, possesses much beauty, but they have rather a sombre aspect: yet the female plant, when in fruit, is certainly very handsome. In Japan and the South Sea Islands, where it is indigenous, the bark of it serves to make a clothing for the natives. In Japan, it not only makes cloth for them, but all the Japanese paper is made from the bark of it. There are four sorts. The first is a royal size, of a square form, very smooth, and painted on one side. The second is a fine letter paper, in sheets often three feet long. The third is used for covering their best varnished articles, and so fine as sometimes to look like a spider’s web. The fourth is a common writing-paper, varying in size and form. The process of its manufacture is by cutting off the shoots after the leaves fall, and boiling them till the bark separates. It is then peeled off, and steeped 3 or 4 hours in water, to purify, and the black outer cuticle, and green matter within, are scraped off and separated, according to their qualities. It is again boiled with a little ashes, and stirred with a bamboo stick; and the boiling is complete when its downy fibres can be separated with a touch of the finger. It is then agitated in water till it appears like a lump of tow, and again beat with camphor wood battens, and strained, for the coarser paper. An infusion of the roots of the Hibiscus manihot, or the leaves of Rivaria Japonica, with the flour of Japan rice, is then mixed with it, and poured on their moulds; which are not, like ours, formed of wire, but of fine rushes, and the sheets laid on a matted table with a fine shred of bamboo between each, and covered by a board with a stone upon it, to squeeze out the water, dried the next day singly on flat boards, and then packed up for sale.

Our figure was made from fine plants in the garden of J. Vere, esq.

GNAPHALIUM GRANDIFLORUM.

Large-flowered Gnaphalium.

CLASS XIX. ORDER II.

SYNGENESIA POLYGAMIA SUPERFLUA. Tips united. Superfluous Polygamy.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This Gnaphalium is at present the largest flowering species (the G. eximium excepted). Its flowers are equally durable with those of any Xeranthemum, nor does it vary essentially in any particular from that genus (as a section of which it would have been much better understood). The genus Elychrisum we find, upon examination, to be built upon the same equivocal ground, and there is little doubt but at some future period those two superfluous genera will fall into the old Linnæan genus of Xeranthemum. Our figure was made from a fine plant in the Clapham collection, about a foot and a half high. We have seen it grow much taller, but it is not then so handsome. It is certainly not a new plant, but has not been as yet figured in any modern publication. The whiteness so prevalent in its flowers and leaves (by way of contrast to the green foliage of most other plants) would render it deserving a place in every collection, even if its long-lived shining flowers were not a sufficient recommendation.

PONTEDERIA DILATATA.

Dilated Pontederia.

CLASS VI. ORDER I.

HEXANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Six Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

This handsome aquatic is a native of the East Indies, and figured in Col. Syms’s Embassy to the Kingdom of Ava, under the title of Pontederia dilatata. On examining some plants in the hot-house of J. Vere, esq. (whence our figure was taken) we observed so much variation in them, that we are inclined to think the P. hastata of Dr. Roxburgh’s Coromandel Plants represents (from a weak plant) the same species our figure delineates.

GARDENIA RADICANS.

Rooting Gardenia.

CLASS V. ORDER I.

PENTANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Five Chives. One Pointal.

ESSENTIAL GENERIC CHARACTER.

SPECIFIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

The Gardenia radirans is a native of Japan, and is figured by Thunberg in his Botanical Dissertation. The figure is small and coarse, but yet characteristic. We have represented a fine young plant, as its fragrant flowers are then much better relieved by the surrounding leaves. It is at present cultivated in the hot-house; but we are inclined to think it might succeed in the protection of the green-house. The luxuriance of its petals frequently absorbs nearly all the parts of fructification. But our specimen fortunately afforded three antheræ out of the five, and the pointal entire.

Our figure was made from a plant in the nursery of Messrs. Whitley and Brames.

OXYLOBIUM CORDIFOLIUM.

Heart-leaved Oxylobium.

CLASS X. ORDER I.

DECANDRIA MONOGYNIA. Ten Chives. One Pointal.

GENERIC CHARACTER.

REFERENCE TO THE PLATE.

Plants of a Papilionaceous character furnish the most frequent opportunity for generic divisions. Nine Genera have already been made by Dr. Smith and others to contain the Butterfly flowers of New Holland. Our little novelty agrees with neither. From Pultenæa, Aotus, Mirbelia, and Dillwynia, it differs in the pod not being two-seeded. The two last genera have also the cups two-lipped, and the first with appendages attached to it. Gompholobium has a globular pod, and Chorizema an oblong one and a bilabiate calyx. Daviesia, Viminaria, and Sphærolobium have pods one-seeded. Thus situated, we are under the necessity of adding one more to the number of genera, perhaps already too extended. We have never seen it exceed a foot in height. The foliage is mostly in whorls: and the stem, leaves, cups, and fruits are hairy.

Our figure represents one of the plants from the nursery of Messrs. Loddige, who first raised it from seed, and where we observed its brilliant little flowers in successive bloom for at least six months.

Plate 438 read 433.

467 instead of Lythrum of Linnæus, read Lythrum fruticosum of Linnæus.

468 line 4 from the bottom, instead of height read size.

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