Pachysandra.—This early hardy perennial has ornamental foliage and blooms in April. It will succeed in almost any soil, and may be increased by suckers from the roots. Height, 1 ft. Paeonies.—These beautiful flowering plants are mostly hardy enough to endure our winters. The herbaceous kinds are increased by dividing the plants at the roots, leaving Continue reading “Flowers Encyclopedia – P to Plums” »

Odontoglossum Grande.—A most beautiful orchid, delighting in a temperature of from 60 to 70 degrees and an abundance of water during summer, but good drainage is essential. The blooms are yellow, spotted and streaked with venetian red, and are often 6 in. across. The pots should be two-thirds filled with crocks, then filled up with Continue reading “Flowers Encyclopedia – O to Orchids” »

Narcissus.—See "Daffodils." Nasturtiums.—These are among the most useful of our hardy annuals, producing a display of the brightest of colours throughout the entire summer. The tall-growing climbers make a gay background to a border, and are equally valuable for trellis-work, while the dwarf varieties are first-class bedding plants, and of great service for ribboning. The Continue reading “Flowers Encyclopedia – N to Nymphaea” »

Mimosa.—These shrubs are often called Sensitive Plants, on account of the leaves of several of the species of this genus shrinking when touched. They grow well in loam and peat with a little sand, but require to be planted in a warm situation or to have greenhouse care. Cuttings of the young wood root readily Continue reading “Flowers Encyclopedia – Mimosa to Myrtle” »

Madia.—A hardy annual of a rather handsome order. The seed should be sown in May in a shady situation. The plant is not particular as to soil, and will flower about eight weeks after it is sown, and continue to bloom during August and September. Height, 1½ ft. Magnolia Grandiflora.—A handsome, hardy evergreen, with large Continue reading “Flowers Encyclopedia – M to Milk Thistle” »