THE
ORCHID ALBUM,

COMPRISING
COLOURED FIGURES AND DESCRIPTIONS
OF
NEW, RARE, AND BEAUTIFUL
ORCHIDACEOUS PLANTS.

CONDUCTED BY
ROBERT WARNER, F.L.S., F.R.H.S.,
Author of SELECT ORCHIDACEOUS PLANTS,
AND
BENJAMIN SAMUEL WILLIAMS, F.L.S., F.R.H.S.,
Author of the ORCHID-GROWERS’ MANUAL, etc.

The Botanical Descriptions by THOMAS MOORE, F.L.S., F.R.H.S.,
CURATOR of the CHELSEA BOTANIC GARDENS.

THE COLOURED FIGURES BY JOHN NUGENT FITCH, F.L.S.

VOLUME II.

LONDON:
Published by B. S. Williams,
AT THE
VICTORIA AND PARADISE NURSERIES, UPPER HOLLOWAY, N.
MDCCCLXXXIII.

DEDICATED
BY SPECIAL PERMISSION
TO
H.R.H. The Princess of Wales,
BY
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS’
Very obedient and humble Servants,
ROBERT WARNER,
BENJAMIN S. WILLIAMS.

INDEX TO PLATES.

PLATE ADA AURANTIACA, Lindley[53] CATASETUM CHRISTYANUM, Rchb. f.[83] CATTLEYA ACLANDIÆ, Lindley[69] CATTLEYA CRISPA BUCHANANIANA, Williams & Moore[81] CATTLEYA DOWIANA AUREA, Williams & Moore[84] CATTLEYA LABIATA, Lindley[88] CATTLEYA SCHOFIELDIANA, Rchb. f.[93] CŒLIA BELLA, Rchb. f.[51] CŒLOGYNE CRISTATA ALBA, Moore[54] CŒLOGYNE PANDURATA, Lindley[63] COMPARETTIA MACROPLECTRON, Rchb. f. et Triana[65] CYPRIPEDIUM FAIRRIEANUM, Lindley[70] CYPRIPEDIUM MEIRAX, Rchb. f.[95] CYPRIPEDIUM PARISHII, Rchb. f.[86] DENDROBIUM FINDLEYANUM, Parish & Rchb. f.[92] EPIDENDRUM WALLISII, Rchb. f.[74] EULOPHIA GUINEENSIS PURPURATA, Rchb. f.[89] LÆLIA ANCEPS, Lindley[75] LÆLIA AUTUMNALIS ATRORUBENS, Backhouse[49] LÆLIA PERRINII, Lindley[60] MASDEVALLIA DAVISII, Rchb. f.[76] MASDEVALLIA IGNEA, Rchb. f.[62] MILTONIA REGNELLI PURPUREA, Hort. Veitch[72] ODONTOGLOSSUM ALEXANDRÆ GUTTATUM, Hooker fil.[94] ODONTOGLOSSUM CORADINEI, Rchb. f.[90] ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISTATELLUM, Rchb. f.[66] ODONTOGLOSSUM GRANDE, Lindley[79] ODONTOGLOSSUM HEBRAICUM LINEOLIGERUM, Rchb. f.[85] ODONTOGLOSSUM LONDESBOROUGHIANUM, Rchb. f.[82] ODONTOGLOSSUM MACULATUM, Lindley[52] ODONTOGLOSSUM MADRENSE, Rchb. f.[71] ODONTOGLOSSUM PESCATOREI VEITCHIANUM, Rchb. f.[68] ODONTOGLOSSUM ROEZLII, Rchb. f.[64] ODONTOGLOSSUM TRIUMPHANS, Rchb. f.[58] ONCIDIUM PHALÆNOPSIS. Lind. et Rchb. f.[96] PESCATOREA LEHMANNI, Rchb. f.[57] PHAIUS TUBERCULOSUS, Blume[91] PHALÆNOPSIS MARIÆ, Burbidge[80] See Note under [Plate 87]. SACCOLABIUM GIGANTEUM, Lindley[56] SCUTICARIA STEELII, Lindley[55] THUNIA BENSONIÆ, Hooker fil.[67] VANDA HOOKERIANA, Rchb. f.[73] VANDA PARISHII MARRIOTTIANA, Rchb. f.[61] VANDA ROXBURGHII, R. Brown[59] VANDA TRICOLOR, Lindley[77] VANDA TRICOLOR PLANILABRIS, Lindley[87] ZYGOPETALUM CLAYII, Rchb. f.[50] ZYGOPETALUM ROSTRATUM, Hooker[78]

INDEX TO NOTES AND SYNONYMS.

UNDER PLATE Aërides Lobbii Ainsworthii, Dr. Ainsworth’s[53] Bifrenaria bella, Lemaire[51] Bletia anceps, Rchb. f.[75] Bletia Perrinii, Rchb. f.[60] Bletia tuberculosa, Sprengel[91] Bothriochilus bellus, Lemaire[51] Cattleya aurea, Mr. Percival’s[70], [84] Cattleya gigas burfordiensis, Sir T. Lawrence’s[50] Cattleya labiata, Mr. Gaskell’s[75] Cattleya Mossiæ, Mr. De Barry Crawshay’s[93] Cattleya Perrinii, Lindley[60] Cattleya Skinneri oculata, Mr. Hardy’s[94] Cattleya superba, Mr. Schneider’s[64] Cattleya Trianæ alba, Mr. E. Wright’s[82] Cattleya Trianæ Russelliana, Baron Schröder’s[83] Cattleya virginalis, Mr. Percival’s[64] Cattleya Warneri, Mr. Southgate’s[51] Cattleyas, high-priced[94] Cœlogyne cristata hololeuca, Rchb. f.[54] Cymbidium tesselloides, Roxb.[59] Cypripedium Parishii, Mr. A. Paul’s[70] Dendrobium Dearei, Sir T. Lawrence’s[93] Disa grandiflora superba, Mr. Heywood’s[58] Dodgson, Richard Barton, Esq., death of[52] Epidendrum labiatum, Rchb. f.[88] Lælia superbiens, Mr. A. H. Smee’s[83] Limodorum tuberculosum, Du Petit-Thouars[91] Maxillaria Steelii, Hooker[55] Mesospinidium aurantiacum, Rchb. f.[53] Odontoglossum Alexandræ, Mr. Buchan’s fine variety of[68] Odontoglossum coronarium miniatum, Lord Rendlesham’s[67] Odontoglossum grande, Mr. Walker’s[72] Odontoglossum Jenningsianum, Mr. R. Smith’s[68] Odontoglossum Lehmanni, F. C. Lehmann in litt.[66] Odontoglossum lyroglossum, Mr. Harvey’s[87] Odontoglossum maxillare, Hook. f., non Lindley[71] Odontoglossum triumphans, Mr. Gordon’s[89] Oncidium Phalænopsis, Mr. E. Salt’s[69] Orchids at Bickley[60], [64] Orchids at Brentham Park, Stirling[65] Orchids at Chislehurst[55] Orchids at the Edinburgh Horticultural Exhibition, September, 1882[62] Orchids at Fallowfield[54] Orchids at the Manchester Exhibition, May, 1882[49] Orchids at New-Hall-Hey[50] Orchids at Pickering Lodge, Timperley[82] Orchids at Sudbury House, Hammersmith[92] Orchids at The Kilns, Falkirk[66] Orchids at Woolton Wood, Liverpool[80] Orchids in France (Ferrières)[63] Orchids in France (Gouville)[61] Orchids, Baron Alphonse de Rothschild’s[63] Orchids, Comte de Germiny’s[61] Orchids, Lord Rendlesham’s[94] Orchids, Mr. Lee’s (Downside)[71] Orchids, effects of Fog on[76] Orchids for the Drawing-room[79] Orchids, watering[57], [59] Phaius Bensoniæ, Hemsley[67] Phaius tuberculosus, Baron Schröder’s[81] Phaius tuberculosus, Sir T. Lawrence’s[81] Phalænopsis Mariæ, Burbidge[87] Vanda densiflora, Lindley[56] Vanda suaveolens, Blume[77] Vanda tessellata, Lodd.[59] Vanda tesselloides, Rchb. f.[59] Vanda tricolor, continuation[78] Vandas flowering in a small state[74] Vandas, Mr. Lee’s (Downside)[90] Zygopetalon Lehmanni, Rchb. f.[57] Zygosepalon rostratum, Rchb. f.[78]

PL. 49. LÆLIA AUTUMNALIS ATRORUBENS.

LÆLIA AUTUMNALIS ATRORUBENS.
[[Plate 49].]
Native of Mexico.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs oblong-ovate, terete, furrowed, bearing two or three leaves at the attenuated apex, and sheathed at the base with large brown imbricated scales. Leaves oblong-linear, spreading, smooth, leathery in texture. Scape terete, issuing from between the leaves, and much longer than them, bearing five or six flowers at the apex, jointed, with sheathing scales at the joints. Flowers large and richly-coloured, much more so than in the typical form, sweet-scented; sepals lanceolate acuminate, spreading, of a brilliant purple-crimson, paler towards the base; petals ovate acuminate, subundulate, of the same colour as the sepals; lip three-lobed, the lateral lobes erect, truncately rounded, white, the middle lobe obovate-oblong, of an intensely brilliant purple-crimson colour, bilamellate on the disk, the apex recurved. Column semicylindrical, decurved, rosy purple.

Lælia autumnalis atrorubens, Backhouse, in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., xii., 232.

Mr. Bateman has well observed that “the genus Lælia may be regarded as one of the most ornamental of its tribe, since pleasing colours, graceful habit, long duration, and delicious perfume—in short, all the essentials of floral beauty seem to be combined in its various species.” There is, indeed, no doubt that in this genus some of the most showy of our cultivated Orchids are to be found. There are, moreover, species presenting many different hues, varying from yellow to rich purple, and while some of them produce small flowers, in others they are gigantic in size. The subject of our plate, as will be seen from the figure, is a magnificent Orchid, our drawing of which was taken from a well-managed specimen grown by Mr. Stevens, Gardener to W. Thompson, Esq., The Grange, Walton, Stone, Staffordshire. This particular variety was imported in 1878 by Messrs. James Backhouse & Son, of York, who grow it to great perfection.

There are many known varieties of Lælia autumnalis, but the one before us is by far the most beautiful of them all, being superior both as regards the size and the colour of the flowers. The pseudobulbs of this form, too, are much stouter and stronger than those of the type form. This variety, as also does the original Lælia autumnalis, blooms during the autumn and winter months, when flowers are in great request.

Lælia autumnalis atrorubens is a compact-growing evergreen plant, the pseudobulbs of which, with the foliage, attain to about ten inches in height. The flower-spikes are produced from the apex of the bulb just at the period when it has completed its growth; they each produce several flowers, which are of large size and stout substance, and of a rich crimson-magenta or purple-crimson colour, and last two to three weeks in perfection.

This plant grows naturally in exposed situations, and on this account, no doubt, we find that it likes plenty of sun and as much light as possible, just enough shade being given to prevent the foliage from burning. The conditions best suited to it are that it should be planted in a basket or pan, and suspended from the roof of the cool house; or if fastened to a block placed on a damp wall, this will suit it equally as well. It should receive a copious supply of water during the growing season; and in warm weather syringing will be found beneficial to it in the morning, and also when the house is shut up in the afternoon.

Orchids at the Manchester Exhibition, May, 1882.—The Orchids were a marvellous sight, and probably such a magnificent display of these glorious plants was never before seen. The plants, many of which bore grand masses of blossom of many rich shades of colour, were arranged along both sides of the large Exhibition house in the Gardens at Old Trafford, and had been brought together from different parts of the country, as well as from the vicinity of Manchester. Everyone who possesses a taste for horticulture—and especially for the wonderful productions of nature which have been brought from distant lands by our plant collectors, and are transmitted to our exhibitions both by amateur growers and nurserymen, so that the public may be able to see all these treasures at one view—should avail themselves of the opportunity of witnessing this exhibition. The entrance fee is only one shilling, and besides Orchids there is always provided a grand display of other plants, too numerous to mention. It is gratifying to learn that 51,000 persons availed themselves of the opportunity to visit this grand show of 1882. We may venture to add that the Council of the Manchester Botanical and Horticultural Society, and Mr. Findlay, the Curator of the Gardens, are doing a great benefit to the horticultural world, as well as to the general public, by bringing such multitudes of fine plants together, while at the same time they secure a good revenue for carrying on the gardens, and afford much gratification to the subscribers, who can thus at their ease feast their eyes upon nature’s beauties to an extent they could not do even if they travelled to the various native habitats of the plants—for even there no one could possibly witness such a diversified display at one point. The best advice we can give to those who are fond of flowers is to go next year and see for themselves, as the specimens are too numerous to be mentioned in our limited space. The show is held annually, and continued during Whit-week, the last being the sixteenth anniversary.—B. S. W.

PL. 50. ZYGOPETALUM CLAYII.

ZYGOPETALUM CLAYII.
[[Plate 50].]
A Garden Hybrid.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs oblong, furrowed, two to three inches long. Leaves lorate-lanceolate, narrowed towards the base, nervose, persistent, about a foot and a half in length when mature. Scape radical, many-flowered, as long as the leaves. Flowers large and very showy; sepals oblong, lanceolate, acute, the lateral ones spreading, purplish brown with green margin and indistinct transverse bands, forming broad blotches, which are often obscurely defined; petals narrower, lanceolate acute, directed forwards, of the same colour as the sepals; lip broad, obcuneate, emarginate, bent upwards abruptly at the base towards the column, so as to form a blunt chin, and again bent downwards, having two projecting points or auricles at the back, the front portion narrow at the base, nearly one and a half inch wide, indistinctly three-lobed, furnished on the disk with a raised plaited ruff or frill, the colour in the best forms a deep violet-purple, with darker purple lines. Column stout, with two small incurved lobes just below the anther bed, dark mottled purple behind, and streaked with purple in front.

Zygopetalum Clayii, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., vii., 684.

It gives us great pleasure to be able to figure one of the finest hybrid Zygopetalums that has yet been raised in this country, and one, moreover, which is totally distinct from any other member of the genus. The plant will be appreciated by growers of Orchids on account of the uncommon colour of its lip—blue being a colour that is seldom met with amongst Orchidaceous plants, but one which is, nevertheless, in great request.

The present novelty was raised by Colonel Clay, of Birkenhead, some few years ago, and was the result of a cross between Zygopetalum crinitum and Z. maxillare. The hybrid was exhibited at one of the meetings of the Royal Horticultural Society, in May, 1877, and was awarded a Certificate of Merit. Since that time we have acquired the stock of this plant from Colonel Clay, and have bloomed several specimens. The form represented by our artist in the accompanying plate bloomed in the Victoria and Paradise Nurseries in March last. We have also bloomed another variety, somewhat different from the foregoing in the markings, the colours being the same; the lip was in this case slightly blotched, and the sepals and petals were suffused with brown.

Zygopetalum Clayii is a free-growing evergreen plant, with foliage reaching to about eighteen inches in height. It produces its flowers at different periods of the year, at the time when it is starting into growth. The flowers are borne in upright spikes from the base of the young growths. The sepals and petals are brownish purple, with a narrow green border, and sometimes distant cross lines of green, while the lip is broad, and of a dark purplish blue. The plant lasts in bloom for about two months.

It is a very free-growing Orchid, requiring exactly the same treatment as Zygopetalum Mackayi, and other familiar species. The Cattleya house will be found to suit it best, and it should be grown in a compost of good fibrous loam with a little leaf-mould added. Being naturally a strong fleshy rooting plant it requires a good supply of water during the growing season. It is best cultivated in a pot.

Orchids at New-Hall-Hey.—When visiting the collection of G. W. Law Schofield, Esq., New-Hall-Hey, Rawtenstall, near Manchester, we noticed the finest variety of Dendrobium lituiflorum we have ever seen. It bore seventy of its lovely showy blossoms, the sepals and petals of which were of a very dark purple colour, and the lip white, edged with purple; this was one of the richest coloured Orchids we have seen. We also noticed a grand variety of D. crassinode superbum, each blossom being three and a half inches across, and of a very good colour. Associated with this was D. MacCarthiæ, which one seldom sees, though it bears some of the most beautifully bright pinkish rose and white flowers that can be imagined, and they are of good size and substance. Of Odontoglossum vexillarium there was a plant which had upon it forty-one of its richly coloured flowers, each measuring four and a half inches across. In the Cattleya house was a very fine Cattleya Mossiæ grandis, with sepals and petals of a delicate rose colour, and the lip large, of a rich magenta, with a lighter margin, each blossom measuring eight inches across. There is here a newly erected house for Cattleyas, which are doing well, and reflect great credit upon Mr. J. Wise, the gardener, who takes very great interest in his plants, everything being kept in good order.—B. S. W.

Cattleya gigas burfordiensis.—We noticed a wonderful example of Cattleya gigas burfordiensis at a recent meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society. It was exhibited by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., M.P., and was deservedly awarded a First Class Certificate. The plant bore four very fine blossoms, each measuring more than eight inches in diameter; the sepals and petals were of a beautiful rose colour, the lip large, three inches across, and of a deep amethyst colour, edged with dark purple-rose, the throat being orange, and the upper portion folded over the column of the same rich rosy purple colour as the lip. The plant was in a very vigorous state of growth, and the flowers stood up well, so as to give it an imposing appearance. It is no doubt one of the finest of the Cattleyas.—B. S. W.

PL. 51. CŒLIA BELLA.

CŒLIA BELLA.
[[Plate 51].]
Native of Guatemala.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs roundish-ovate, sub-compressed, pale green, the older ones oblong-ovate. Leaves of a light green colour, about ten inches in height, three or four from the top of the pseudobulb, narrow ensiform acuminate, plicate, five-ribbed, convolutely sheathing at the base. Scape radical, short, clothed with bifarious sheathing bracts, four to seven-flowered. Flowers of moderate size, tricoloured, emitting a very sweet odour, the perianth tubular below, funnel-shaped above, the bracteoles oblong, obliquely dimidiate; sepals and petals similar, somewhat fleshy in texture, creamy white tipped with magenta-rose, the upper sepal shorter, oblong obtuse, terminating abruptly at the pedicel, the lateral ones produced behind into a blunt spur adnate to the base of the column; lip yellow, produced at the base, and abruptly replicate, forming a cucullate cavity enclosed within the spur, oblong, three-lobed, the lateral lobes short quadrate, the middle lobe linguiform acute, with a large fleshy orange-coloured convex callosity occupying the disk. Column white, broadly cuneate, three-toothed at the apex.

Cœlia bella, Reichenbach fil., in Walpers’ Annales Botanices Systematicæ, vi., 218; Hooker fil., Botanical Magazine, t. 6628.

Bifrenaria bella, Lemaire, Jardin Fleuriste, iii., t. 325.

Bothriochilus bellus, Lemaire, L’Illustration Horticole, iii., 30.

We have in this plant a representative of a small genus of Orchids, few of the species of which are worthy of cultivation. That now before us is, however, a very pretty and curious plant, as will be seen by a glance at our plate. We believe that Cœlia bella was introduced about thirty years ago by the Messrs. Loddiges, of Hackney, but at the present time it is extremely scarce. Lemaire, by whom it was described and figured in 1853, in the volume of Jardin Fleuriste above quoted, states that it was introduced about the same period, from the Island of St. Catherine’s, to the Belgian Gardens, by M. Ambroise Verschaffelt, through his collector, M. F. Devos, but Sir Joseph Hooker has recently pointed out that there are specimens of it in Lindley’s Herbarium, collected in Guatemala by Mr. Skinner, and that, like its congeners, it is probably a native of Central America. For the opportunity of preparing our figure, we are indebted to the courtesy of J. C. Bowring, Esq., Forest Farm, Windsor Forest, by whom it is flowered freely every year.

Cœlia bella is a compact-growing evergreen plant, with small globose or ovoid pseudobulbs of a light green colour. The ensiform foliage is also light green, and grows about ten inches high. The flower-spikes proceed from the base of the pseudobulbs, and produce four to seven funnel-shaped flowers on each spike. The sepals and petals are of a creamy white hue, tipped with rich magenta, while the lip is yellow, the whole perianth being very thick and fleshy in texture. The plant produces its blossoms during the autumn months, and succeeds well if cultivated in a pot with plenty of good drainage; fibrous peat should be used for potting, and a liberal supply of water should be given during the growing season, which is just after the flowering period.

The temperature of the Cattleya house will be found to suit this Cœlia, or it may be grown in a moist stove. We have often seen plants of this kind do better in a house wherein miscellaneous stove plants are grown than in the Orchid house, which we believe is owing to their obtaining under these conditions more moisture and light, two things in which most Orchids delight. We mention this in order that cultivators may know and understand that there are various Orchids which can be grown, and grown well, in company with other subjects in an ordinary plant stove. We ourselves have found that many of the species do best in a house where such plants as Crotons, &c., are grown. Dendrobiums especially like this treatment, under which the bulbs attain much larger dimensions, and become better ripened. It is quite an erroneous idea that Orchids all require special houses for their successful cultivation. This certainly is not the case, as some of the finest Cattleyas, Vandas, Dendrobes, Phalænopsis, &c., that we have ever met with, have been cultivated in ordinary plant stoves, where they get a little shade from the burning rays of the sun.

Cattleya Warnerii.—A well-bloomed plant of this noble Orchid was exhibited at the Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, on June 13th, by C. L. Southgate, Esq., of Streatham. This specimen was an example of what can be produced by giving a plant the treatment it likes—for such must have been the case in this instance. The plant was in an eight-inch pot, and bore three fine spikes of blossoms, one having six, another five, and the third four flowers upon it, all expanded. The sepals and petals were of a beautiful rose colour, the lip a rich crimson, finely fringed, and marked with orange on the upper part. It was altogether a very striking object, and was greatly admired for the profusion of blossom produced in so small a pot. We mention this plant in order that our readers may know how abundantly it can be bloomed, as we often hear cultivators say that it does not flower freely, a theory which in this case must undoubtedly be wrong. The freeness of blooming evinced by this plant may be owing to the smallness of the pot in which it is grown; it may, therefore, be well for others to follow Mr. Salter’s example in this respect, since he has been so successful in cultivating it.—B. S. W.

PL. 52. ODONTOGLOSSUM MACULATUM.

ODONTOGLOSSUM MACULATUM.
[[Plate 52].]
Native of Mexico.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs oblong, compressed, usually bearing a solitary leaf, other leaves with equitant articulated petioles investing the bulb. Leaves oblong, acute, five to seven nerved, of a parchment-like texture, and a bright green colour. Scape radical, bearing a many-flowered pendulous or semi-erect raceme, furnished with boat-shaped brownish herbaceous bracts shorter than the ovaries. Flowers prettily spotted, about two and a half inches in breadth, and upwards of three inches in depth; sepals linear-lanceolate, acuminate, green or stained with brown outside, chestnut brown within, marked with green transverse bars at the base; petals oblong undulate acuminate, chrome-yellow, thickly spotted with brownish red on the basal half; lip unguiculate, cordate acuminate, sub-crenate, of the same colour as the petals, with a concave two-valved emarginate purple-veined appendage on the claw. Column white, pubescent, obsoletely auriculate near the apex.

Odontoglossum maculatum, Lindley, Botanical Register, 1840, t. 30; Id., Folia Orchidacea, art. Odontoglossum, No. 11; Pescatorea, t. 28; Reichenbach fil., in Walpers’ Annales Botanices Systematicæ, vi., 829; Bateman, Monograph of Odontoglossum, t. 20; Floral Magazine, t. 348 (as maculosum); Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 237.

The Odontoglossums are amongst the most popular of Orchids. They are not only esteemed for their fine showy flowers but for their long lasting qualities, and they can nearly all be grown in houses with a low temperature. The species we now bring before the notice of our readers is a most distinct and desirable one, which has been known in cultivation for many years. The drawing from which our plate was prepared was taken from a plant that flowered in the collection of W. Salt, Esq., of Ferniehurst, Shipley, Yorkshire, who has a grand lot of cool Orchids, which are, moreover, exceedingly well cultivated.

Odontoglossum maculatum is not only free but compact in its growth. It has thick fleshy pseudobulbs, and light green foliage, and the individual plants produce their sub-erect spikes of flowers at different times of the year, according to the period of the completion of their growth. The flowers are very strikingly beautiful, being of a colour that one seldom sees in Orchids, and they continue for a long time in perfection when protected against damp. The colour, however, varies in different plants. The form originally figured in the Botanical Register has the sepals green outside, and chestnut-brown within; that published in the Pescatorea has the sepals represented as brownish purple in front, paler purple behind, with green tips on both surfaces; and the form figured in the Floral Magazine, if correctly rendered, had the greenish sepals indistinctly spotted with brown.

This species, as do many other Mexican Orchids, likes a light position, with plenty of air on warm days, and a good supply of water during the growing season. Propagation is effected by division of the pseudobulbs in the usual way.

Death of Richard Barton Dodgson, Esq., Beardwood, Blackburn.—We are very sorry to have to record the death of one who has done so much for horticulture as our good friend Mr. Dodgson. All who knew him must feel deeply grieved at the loss of such an amiable and kind-hearted gentleman—for such he was, not only to us, but to all who came into contact with him; of this, the expressions of gratification that have emanated from all who have paid Mr. and Mrs. Dodgson a visit, supply abundant evidence. The reception given by him to Gardeners, Nurserymen, &c., when calling to see his collection of plants, was always a most cordial one, and whether it was to one or a dozen persons it never varied. All who were acquainted with Mr. Dodgson know how fond he was of his Plants, especially his Orchids. In the collection at Beardwood there are some of the finest specimens that can anywhere be seen, and also many rare varieties that are not to be met with elsewhere. This collection has been forming for many years, and it was always Mr. Dodgson’s study to procure the best kinds possible. Many persons will be able to recall the fine specimens exhibited from Beardwood at the Manchester, Blackburn, and Preston Shows, and will recollect that when the Royal Horticultural Society held their large Exhibition at Preston, Mr. Dodgson took most of the first class honours in the classes in which he exhibited. He was most kind and liberal to his Gardeners, giving them every encouragement in carrying out their duties, and they in their turn, were always ready to wait upon him. During his illness he would often express a wish to see his favourite plants as they came into bloom, and these were accordingly taken into his bedroom by his Gardener, and proved a great source of delight to him in the midst of his severe sufferings. We regret that the available space in the Album is so limited or we should have said more. We have figured and described from time to time some fine plants from the Beardwood collection, and we have yet other illustrations taken by our artist, which will be published at some future time. We must again express our deep and sincere regret at the loss of such a devoted patron of Horticulture.—B. S. W.

PL. 53 ADA AURANTIACA

ADA AURANTIACA
[[Plate 53].]
Native of New Grenada.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs sub-cylindrical, tapering upwards, three to four inches long, sheathed with reddish scales at their base. Leaves terminal, channelled, broadly linear, four to six inches long, one to three in number. Scape terminal, longer than the leaves, bisquamate, bearing a drooping spike of from ten to fourteen rather distichously placed flowers, which have each a scariose lanceolate-subulate bract at its base. Flowers brightly coloured, the perianth closed below, and only opening in the upper part; sepals sub-equal, of a bright orange or cinnabar-red, spreading only from above the middle, linear-lanceolate, much acuminate, the lateral ones somewhat oblique at the base; petals smaller, but similar in form and colour; lip of the same bright orange-red, undivided, parallel with the column, and adnate to its base, lanceolate, shortly acuminate, scarcely half the length of the sepals, with a crest formed of two connate membranaceous lamellæ, pubescent inside near the base. Column short, thick, wingless; anther case hemispherical; pollen-masses two, obovate, seated on a cuneate caudicle, arising from a gland.

Ada aurantiaca, Lindley, Folia Orchidacea, art. Ada; Hooker, Botanical Magazine, t. 5435; Bateman, Second Century of Orchidaceous Plants, t. 113; André, L’Illustration Horticole, 3 ser., t. 107; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 62.

Mesospinidium aurantiacum, Reichenbach fil., in Walpers’ Annales Botanices Systematicæ, vi., 857.

This is the only member of the genus Ada with which we are yet acquainted, and even this is by some authorities referred to Mesospinidium. Whether forming a distinct genus or not, it is a well marked and charming Orchid, one by means of which a fine contrast of colour can be insured in the arrangements made for the decoration of our Orchid houses. The accompanying plate was taken from a fine specimen which bloomed in the Victoria and Paradise Nurseries, but as our page is limited in size only a portion of the plant could be represented. This plant bore twenty of its graceful and brilliantly-coloured spikes of flowers. When thus successfully cultivated no one could fail to admire the Ada aurantiaca, the more so as it is one of the Orchids which thrive in a cool house, and plants can be purchased at a very small cost.

Ada aurantiaca is an evergreen species of remarkably free habit. It grows about ten inches high, and has foliage of a fine dark green colour. It produces its flower spikes from the young growths, between the leaves, one or two together, the spikes being drooping towards the extremity and the flowers of a bright orange-scarlet colour. These flowers are produced during the winter and spring months, and last for several weeks in perfection.

The species is a native of New Grenada, where it is found at the great elevation of 8,000 feet, consequently it will grow well with Odontoglots under cool treatment. Some years ago it was very rare, but now, thanks to our collectors, it is more plentiful, and hence has become popular. It is a most important decorative plant on account of its colour, which, as a contrast, is especially useful when placed amongst the Odontoglots. We have found it most effective when it is brought into close association with the delicate colours of O. Alexandræ and O. Pescatorei the effect obtained by the intermixture is altogether charming.

The Ada requires the same treatment as the Odontoglots. The potting material best suited to its growth is good fibrous peat, with plenty of drainage. It will thrive either in a pot or in a basket, and in potting it should be well elevated above the rim, so that the roots can work freely among the material in which it is potted. The soil should be kept moist during the growing season, but on no account must the moisture be allowed to become stagnant, a condition which can be prevented by using charcoal mixed with the peat, which will keep the drainage open, and allow the water to pass off. If the soil should by any mischance become soddened it must be removed and fresh soil made use of, the roots at the same time being well washed previously to repotting.

Shade is very essential to the well being of the foliage, as the leaves are apt to go spotted if the sun is permitted to shine upon them. In its native country it is found in shady places, and hence will not bear full exposure, although in its artificial home it likes all the light possible.

Aërides Lobbii Ainsworthii.—We have received a grand spike of this beautiful Orchid from R. F. Ainsworth, Esq., M.D., of Lower Broughton, Manchester. It is one of the darkest and best varieties that has come under our notice. The same plant was exhibited a few years ago at the Royal Horticultural Society’s Show at Preston, and it was the admiration of every one who saw it. Mr. Mitchell, the gardener, informs us that it blooms in the same style every year. The spikes are more than two feet long, and well branched, while the colour of the flowers is very bright and effective, so that it makes a fine exhibition plant. This variety is much darker and brighter in its markings than the type.—B. S. W.

PL. 54. CŒLOGYNE CRISTATA ALBA.

CŒLOGYNE CRISTATA ALBA.
[[Plate 54].]
Native of India.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs oblong, becoming somewhat angulate, growing from a thick scaly rhizome, diphyllous. Leaves linear-lanceolate, somewhat flaccid. Scape radical, erect, bearing a drooping raceme of three to five flowers, furnished at the base with dry brown imbricated scales; bracts oblong, persistent, sheathing the stalked ovaries. Flowers large, fragrant, about four inches in diameter; sepals oblong-lanceolate, acuminate, undulate, white; petals similar to the sepals in form and colour; lip three-lobed, concave, everywhere pure white, the lateral lobes half oblong, truncate at the upper end, and somewhat broader than the small middle lobe, which is transversely roundish and obtusely dentate; on the disk are five parallel veins or lamellæ covered by delicate fringes, which are also white, the three central ones having a wavy plate at their base, while in front of the two which stand on each side the middle vein is a solid plate terminating abruptly.

Cœlogyne cristata alba, Hort.; Moore, in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., xv., 442; Id., N.S., xv., 511; Id., N.S., xvii., 153.

Cœlogyne cristata hololeuca, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., xv., 563; Bull, Catalogue of New Plants, 1882, 100.

All Orchidists know well the old type of Cœlogyne cristata, which has been in cultivation for many years, and which is one of the most useful plants we have for winter decoration. In the novelty we now introduce we have a pure white form of this plant, which is a most charming addition to our collections, and which will assuredly be sought after by all Orchid growers. We are indebted to the kindness of Mr. W. Bull, of the King’s Road, Chelsea, for the opportunity of figuring this choice variety. It was first made known last year at the Regent’s Park Spring Exhibition, by Mr. J. D. Richards, gardener to T. A. Titley, Esq., Gledhaw, Leeds, who obtained for it a well merited First Class Certificate, and shortly after the plant passed into the hands of Mr. Bull, who gained another Certificate with it at South Kensington, and has the honour of having introduced to the public a most lovely novelty. The variety is extremely rare, Mr. Bull having only a very limited number of plants. As will be seen from our plate it will make a most useful plant for cutting, since pure white flowers are so highly appreciated for bouquets and other decorative purposes.

The new variety is in all respects similar to the type, save in the absence of the yellow blotch upon the lip. It is a compact-growing evergreen plant, attaining the same dimensions as regards foliage and bulbs as Cœlogyne cristata itself, and producing its pure white spotless flowers in the same manner, four or five together on a drooping spike; it blossoms during the winter and spring, and lasts for two or three weeks in beauty if the flowers are kept dry. It is both a free-growing and a free-blooming plant, and will no doubt thrive either in the Odontoglossum or Cattleya house. If cultivated in a cool house we should recommend that the plants be taken into a warmer structure when they begin to show flower. We have always found C. cristata to be greatly benefited by this treatment, as the spikes are apt to damp off in too cool an atmosphere; moreover, on account of their pure white colour they seem to absorb the cold damp more quickly and readily than many other flowers, and this of course soon disfigures them.

We have found good fibrous peat the best material in which to grow Cœlogyne cristata, and no doubt the variety we now figure will require the same treatment, as the two forms are found growing together in their native country. Pot culture will suit them best, as they require a good amount of water at their roots during their growing season, which can thus be secured. After the growth is completed less water will suffice, but they must always be kept so far moist at the root that their bulbs may remain in a plump firm condition.

Orchids at Fallowfield.—In this, which is one of the noted collections near Manchester, Dendrobium Falconeri was the first plant that attracted attention; it is a choice kind, and there was a fine specimen of it with two hundred of its bright purple, white, and orange-coloured flowers in full beauty. This was an exceedingly well cultivated plant. Mr. Swan, the gardener, informs us that he has had this specimen for several years under cultivation, and that it improves each successive season, and has been several times exhibited at the Manchester Shows. We mention this in order that our readers may understand that this species can be cultivated successfully for years with proper treatment. We also noticed the charming Thunia Bensoniæ, with many spikes of its reddish purple flowers, some of the spikes producing as many as eighteen flowers on each spike. When grown in this way it forms a grand object of attraction, especially as we possess but few Orchids of the same colour. We also noticed some fine spikes of Oncidium macranthum, bearing its bright yellow flowers, and when grown among the plants of Odontoglossum Alexandræ, with their pure white blossoms, it produces with other flowers a good effect. We also saw in the East India house some fine plants of Aërides Lobbii finely in bloom, some of their racemes of bright coloured flowers being three feet in length and branched. A. crassifolium was in full beauty; it is one of the best of its family, and one that should be grown in every collection, as it occupies such a small space.—B. S. W.

PL. 55. SCUTICARIA STEELII.

SCUTICARIA STEELII.
[[Plate 55].]
Native of British Guiana.

Epiphytal. Rhizome short, articulated, branched, ebulbous, the branches monophyllous. Leaves flagelliform, as thick as a swan’s quill, channelled, subulate at the apex, two to four feet long, drooping. Scape radical, short, one to three flowered. Flower large, fragrant, with the perianth connivent; sepals oblong, the lateral ones produced at the base into a blunt chin, pale primrose-yellow, blotched with deep reddish brown; petals of the same form and colour as the sepals; lip three-lobed, pale yellow, striately marked with brownish crimson, especially on the lateral lobes, which are roundish erect, the intermediate one bilobed, with roundish, subcuneate, divergent divisions, and bearing at the base an oblong callus having three obtuse orange-coloured teeth in front. Column semiterete, decurrent with the base of the lateral sepals, so as to form a blunt spur or chin; pollen-masses four, sessile, in pairs, on a dilated transverse gland, acuminate at both ends.

Scuticaria Steelii, Lindley, Botanical Register, xxix., misc., p. 14; Reichenbach fil., in Walpers’ Annales Botanices Systematicæ, vi., 551; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 292.

Maxillaria Steelii, Hooker, Botanical Magazine, t. 3573; Lindley, Botanical Register, t. 1986.

This is a small genus of Orchids separated from Maxillaria by Dr. Lindley, and generally adopted. The few species are distinct in their habit of growth, as also in reference to the manner in which they produce their flowers. That which we now figure is one of the best as yet known. Our drawing was taken from a plant in the collection of W. McDonald, Esq., Woodlands, Perth, who has many fine specimen Orchids, and among them some choice species. We may state that Mr. McDonald often sends us specimens of beautiful Orchids, such as we are always very glad to receive from any growers, either for the purpose of naming, or with the view to their illustration in the Album.

Scuticaria Steelii is a native of British Guiana. The foliage is terete, pendulous, and of a dark green colour, three to four feet in length, and tapering off to a point; in fact it is almost like a rush in its form. The flower spikes proceed from the rhizome at the base of the leaves; they are about two inches high and generally three-flowered. The sepals and petals are yellow, irregularly spotted with brownish crimson, while the lip is yellow, striped with crimson. The plant blooms at different times of the year, and continues a long time in perfection. When in flower it is a very attractive object, those who see it in bloom being astonished to find such a beautiful inflorescence proceeding from the peculiar rush-like foliage, and when hanging from the roof of the house the whole plant has a very singular and handsome appearance.

The plants thrive best grown on blocks of wood, with a little live sphagnum moss about their roots; if the moss should become decayed it must be removed and renewed by fresh. They will also grow on rough blocks of wood without moss, but when cultivated in this way they require the more frequent application of moisture to keep their roots active. We have seen them thrive well in baskets, planted in rough fibrous peat, but grown in this way they do not look so well. They should be hung up as near to the glass as possible, in the full light, as they require but little shade. They will do either in the Cattleya or East India house. A good supply of water must be given during the growing season, but less when their growth is completed. These plants are not easy to increase, as they do not like to be divided.

Orchids at Chislehurst.—When calling in July last on W. Vanner, Esq., at Camden Wood, Chislehurst, we were pleased to find some beautiful Orchids in bloom in the show house, which is a square lofty structure, with tables round the sides, and chairs and seats in the centre. The Orchids are here shown off to the best advantage, intermixed with foliage and flowering plants, the flowering Orchids being brought into this house as they come into bloom. We noticed some fine plants of Lælia purpurata in full beauty, one variety with rose-coloured sepals and petals, and a beautifully veined rich dark amethyst lip, was especially fine. Cattleya Mendelii was well represented, one plant having six spikes of bloom—a grand plant and the picture of health. Lælia elegans was also in bloom, a fine large variety, with a very richly-coloured lip. We also saw here two specimens of the finest varieties of Odontoglossum hastilabium we have ever met with, having large branching spikes, one with seventy flowers upon it; the sepals and petals were creamy white, barred with purple, the lip white, with a purple base. This is a grand exhibition Orchid, as it lasts a long time in perfection.

In the next house were some fine plants of Odontoglossum Alexandræ; one variety in particular was very fine, having rose-coloured sepals and a very large finely spotted lip. The Bull’s-blood variety of Masdevallia Harryana was in good form; also M. Harryana læta and M. Harryana lilacina, a very pretty light-coloured variety, with rosy lilac flowers. Sobralia macrantha was also very finely in flower, as well as many other good things in bud, or making good growth for another year.—B. S. W.

PL. 56. SACCOLABIUM GIGANTEUM.

SACCOLABIUM GIGANTEUM.
[[Plate 56].]
Native of Burmah.

Epiphytal. Stem short, producing from the basal portion thick fleshy roots. Leaves subsecund, leathery, broadly lorate with the apex oblique and bilobed, about a foot long and two inches broad, channelled, the surface streaked. Racemes densely flowered, drooping, about equalling the leaves in length, axillary. Flowers very numerous, handsomely spotted, and remarkably fragrant, with broad, short, membraneous bracts at their base; sepals oblong or cuneate-ovate, obtuse, white, with a few amethyst dots; petals narrower, obovate, white, more freely spotted with amethyst; lip wedge-shaped, dilated, and trifid at the apex, the central portion short, ligulate, and slightly retuse, and the lateral parts semi-rhomboidal, all being of a beautiful mauve-violet or magenta colour, veined with darker lines; from the short conical spur two elevated hairy lines pass outwards, diverging in the middle, and reuniting at the contracted portion of the lip. Column greenish, short, reclinate, the anther with a stout beak.

Saccolabium giganteum, Lindley, in Wallich’s Catalogue, 7306; Id., Genera and Species of Orchidaceous Plants, 221; Bateman, in Botanical Magazine, t. 5635; Jennings, Orchids, t. 8; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 287.

Vanda densiflora, Lindley, in Paxton’s Flower Garden, under t. 42; Id., Folia Orchidacea, art. Vanda, No. 22; Van Houtte, Flore des Serres, tt. 1765-66; Reichenbach fil., in Walpers’ Annales Botanices Systematicæ, vi., 869.

There can be no doubt as to the position that the Saccolabiums occupy in the Orchid family—they certainly rank among the very finest of the whole race. They are not very numerous, but among the known species there are some which are of great beauty. They used to be exhibited in splendid style some quarter of a century ago by the late S. Rucker, Esq., of Wandsworth, Mrs. Lawrence, of Ealing Park, Dr. Butler, of Woolwich, and also from other fine collections then in existence, at which time there was seldom an exhibition group staged without a fine specimen of Saccolabium guttatum, or some other equally fine species. Now, however, we rarely see them shown. Orchid growers appear to have forgotten this noble class of plants, and many beginners think that they are difficult to cultivate, but we ourselves have never found them to be so, and, together with other nurserymen, we are growing and selling specimens every year. Where can the greater part of these go to? Why they are purchased by foreigners, who seem to have a greater taste than we have in this country for these most wonderful of all Orchids, which even when not in bloom are objects of attraction from their noble aspect and graceful foliage. Our illustration of S. giganteum was taken from a plant which bloomed in the Victoria and Paradise Nurseries, Holloway. It blooms during the winter months, which adds to its value, as there are but few Saccolabiums which flower at that season of the year. The species, at first referred to Saccolabium by Lindley, was afterwards transferred by him to Vanda, under the name of V. densiflora.

Saccolabium giganteum is a slow growing plant, and makes about three leaves a year; from the axils of these the flower spikes emerge, and extend to the length of ten or twelve inches. The plant continues in bloom for about six weeks, the flowers, moreover, are deliciously fragrant, which is an additional recommendation, indeed this species possesses all the good qualities a plant can possess, and, if strong, blooms freely when only a few inches high. We have seen a very fine specimen of it in the beautiful collection of C. Walker, Esq., Brettagh Holt, Milnthorpe, bearing many flower spikes, all of good length; it was a noble object, one that Mr. Walker might well be proud of. We were surprised three years ago to receive, amongst some imported masses, one which stood three feet high, forming quite a pyramid of young growths, and carrying from twenty to thirty spikes; other masses were also of great size.

We have found this Saccolabium to grow well in the East India house, where the temperature by fire-heat during winter is kept at about 60° during the night and 65° during the day. When the sun causes the heat to rise above this, air should be given, avoiding cold draughts. The plants require plenty of light, but must be shaded during the spring and summer months, when the temperature should be about 65° by night and 70° by day, or with sun-heat 75°. During June, July, and August it should range from 70° to 75° by night and 75° to 80° by day. The house should be moistened twice a day in summer—in the morning and in the afternoon, about three or four o’clock, when it may be closed for the night, always, however, keeping a certain amount of air on, but not sufficient to interfere with the temperature.

We find the best material for growing the Saccolabiums in is fresh clean sphagnum moss, with good drainage. If grown in pots these should be nearly filled with drainage material, and the plants placed on sphagnum moss and kept well elevated above the pot rim. They will do well in baskets suspended from the roof, so that their roots can hang in the moist atmosphere. They require a good supply of moisture during the summer season, and also in autumn, but in winter less will suffice, indeed during this season they must never be allowed to get too wet, though the moss must be kept damp. They have no thick fleshy bulbs to fall back upon for support, and therefore if they are allowed to become too dry they will shrivel, and lose their lower leaves, which is a great disfigurement. The plants must always be kept free from insects.

PL. 57. PESCATOREA LEHMANNI.

PESCATOREA LEHMANNI.
[[Plate 57].]
Native of the Andes of Ecuador.

Epiphytal. Stems none, or consisting of a short crown or growing point, from which the leaves, with their narrowed overlapping bases and the stout fibrous roots proceed. Leaves lorate-lanceolate acute, upwards of a foot long, and from an inch to an inch and a half wide, of thin, firm texture, ribbed. Scapes radical, much shorter than the leaves, bracteate, one-flowered. Flowers large, upwards of three inches across, showy, white striped with purple; sepals and petals broadly cuneate oblong, obtusely rounded, with a short projecting point, white, with contiguous curved parallel lines of reddish purple extending nearly to the edge; lip deep mauve-purple, the basal segments small, triangular, erect, the interposed calli forming a ruff of chestnut-brown, consisting of about eleven ridges, the anterior mauve-coloured portion oblong, revolute, retuse, covered with lines of long bristle-like purple papillæ. Column stout, curved forwards, purple and rounded behind, brown in front, the anther case whitish green.

Pescatorea Lehmanni, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., xii., 424.

Zygopetalum Lehmanni, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., xii., 424.

The genus Pescatorea is one of recent introduction. A few years ago the plants referred to it were unknown, but latterly they have been met with by botanical collectors, and have gradually found their way to our Orchid houses, some very beautiful species being included amongst them. Pescatorea Lehmanni, represented in the accompanying illustration, is one of these. It was exhibited a short time since at the Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, by Messrs. Vervaet & Co., Nurserymen, of Ghent, Belgium, and on that occasion was deservedly awarded a First Class Certificate. It was from this specimen, which was a well-grown one, that our plate was taken. The plant was grown on a block of wood, and thus placed had a really beautiful and attractive appearance. The species was collected by Mr. Lehmann, in whose honour it is named, and who has sent home many fine Orchids.

Pescatorea Lehmanni is an evergreen plant, with broadish light green ribbed foliage, which grows from twelve to eighteen inches in height. The flowers are produced from the axils of the leaves at the base of the very short stem, several proceeding from each tuft; they have the sepals and petals white, striped with purple lines, while the lip is mauve-coloured, covered with a number of hair-like papillæ, and having a rich brown ruff or throat. The plant blooms after it has completed its growth, and the flowers continue fresh for some considerable time; it appears to yield its blossoms at different times of the year.

These plants are not generally well cultivated, but in the case of those we saw at Messrs. Vervaet’s there seemed to be no difficulty about it. They were fixed on blocks of wood, which appears the most natural method of cultivating them; and no plants could be thriving better, producing finer foliage, or flowering more profusely than these. The appearance they presented when hanging from the roof was very charming, as the flowers and plants both seemed to be in their natural position, which of course conduces greatly to success in their cultivation, wherein it is wise in most cases to follow natural habits as closely as possible. They are found in their native country growing on the branches of trees in moist places, and in consequence when suspended from the roof they require abundance of water, which can easily be applied with a syringe about the roots. We have seen them thrive well on blocks plunged in pots of fibrous peat, but in this way they frequently fail, and after two or three years’ growth the plants rot away. Of course there are exceptional cases in which they grow well for a longer period; but they will, we believe, be found to thrive better and last longer in a suspended position, if they get shaded from the sun. Their leaves being broad and thin are apt to become spotted if exposed to the full sun heat, but they like plenty of light, which they get when hanging from the roof, besides which their growth becomes more robust, and their foliage stands better. We find the cool end of the East Indian house to suit them. They require to be watered all the year round, not having bulbous stems to support them, and they take little rest, being generally in full vigour. In winter rather less water may be given, just sufficient to keep them plump.

Insects must always be closely sought after, as the foliage of these plants is tender, such as these pests delight to feed upon. The species are propagated by dividing them where there are one or two back shoots, with a young growth in front.

Watering Orchids.—We have found rain-water to be the best for Orchids and for all kinds of plants, this being the water supplied in their natural habitats. Rain-water is easily to be obtained, by providing tanks under the stages, and allowing the rain-water to enter from the roof; in this way no room is lost. A pump should be attached, in case the water gets low in dry weather, when it can be easily raised to the required height.

The plan we adopt is to have a deep cemented tank in the centre of the house, under the stage, so that the top may be open; this allows the water which is standing in the tank to become somewhat warmed by contact with the atmosphere of the house, which is very beneficial; in fact, Orchids should never be watered with water that has not had the chill taken off, as cold water, especially in winter time, causes spot, and may rot the growths and injure the roots. Into this tank the rain-water runs from the roof, and as we have the New River water laid on as well, when rain-water is scarce we fill up with this, and thereby have a mixture of rain and hard water.—B. S. W.

PL. 58. ODONTOGLOSSUM TRIUMPHANS.

ODONTOGLOSSUM TRIUMPHANS.
[[Plate 58].]
Native of New Grenada.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs ovate oblong, two to three inches in length, furrowed when old, diphyllous. Leaves oblong-lanceolate, acuminate, narrowed to the base. Scape arising from the base of the pseudobulbs, elongate, the inflorescence racemose, the flowers having longish internodes between them, and the pedicels each furnished with a small triangular bract at its base. Flowers large, handsomely spotted; sepals oblong acute, narrowed to the base, deep golden yellow, marked for three-fourths of their length with transverse spots and blotches of rich brownish crimson; petals similar in form and colour, somewhat broader, the margins lobulate or sinuate-dentate; lip clawed, the limb fiddle-shaped, apiculate, with the point recurved, the margin denticulate, the basal half white with yellow crests, and the anterior portion of a rich brownish crimson, narrowly edged with yellow, the claw bicarinate, the keel running out into crests on the disk, with a pair of larger falcate crests interposed. Column white, semi-terete, curved at the tip, with a rhombic minutely erose wing.

Odontoglossum triumphans, Reichenbach fil., Bonplandia, ii., 99; Id., Pescatorea, t. 46 (less densely blotched, and lip tipped with rosy purple); Lemaire, Illustration Horticole, t. 609 (as in Pescatorea); Bateman, Monograph of Odontoglossum, t. 23; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 245.

The varied phases of beauty which are met with in the genus Odontoglossum are quite overwhelming; indeed so many of the species are really fine plants that to describe and illustrate all that are deserving would alone be a heavy task. We have now, at least, before us a species of the O. luteo-purpureum group which is quite distinct, O. triumphans, which we may observe is one of the most useful to cultivators, since it mixes up so well and forms so fine a contrast in colour with the forms of the O. Alexandræ type. The particular variety we now illustrate, and which is a very remarkable one, was kindly sent us by E. Wright, Esq., Gravelly Hill, Birmingham, who has been cultivating Orchids for many years, and who has also sent us blossoms of many other beautiful species. The spike of O. triumphans here represented was, it will be seen, a very fine one, having splendidly marked and showy flowers. There are many varieties of this species, some of them being lighter in colour than others; in fact there is an almost endless variation among the imported plants owing no doubt to the chance intercrossing of the parents, which has been effected by insects in their native country, where so many of them are found in contiguous spots. Our home cultivators too are taking a hint from the insect world, and doing much service to floriculture by hybridising some of the choicest forms of Orchids with remarkably good results. We hope their success will encourage them to continue their pleasing and profitable work.

Odontoglossum triumphans is an evergreen plant, with pseudobulbs from two to three inches in height, and foliage of a light green colour, growing about twelve inches high. The flower-spikes are produced after the plant has completed its growth; in some of the varieties these grow two or three feet in length, with many flowers developed upon them. The sepals and petals are of a golden yellow, barred with brownish crimson; the lip is white at the base, its front portion having a large irregular blotch of brownish crimson. It generally blooms during the spring and winter months, and lasts for six or more weeks in beauty. This is a most useful feature in the Odontoglots, as they can be used for decorative purposes, and can be removed into living rooms without any injury to the plant or flowers if due care be taken—that is to say, the heat need not be higher than from 45° to 50°, they must not be placed near gas, and the roots must be occasionally moistened.

As an example of the power of endurance possessed by these plants we may mention that we took a plant packed in a box with other specimens to America, and showed it at the Philadelphia Exhibition, where the Odontoglot lasted some time in full beauty. We also took many other Orchids in bud, and they flowered after their arrival, much to the astonishment of the American cultivators. Mr. R. Warner carried an Odontoglossum in full bloom to the St. Petersburgh Exhibition, and afterwards, while still in blossom, showed it in London. We mention these facts to show what may be done with these beautiful flowers.

Odontoglossum triumphans requires the same treatment as O. Alexandræ as regards temperature, material for potting, and moisture at the roots.

Disa grandiflora superba.—This grand Orchid is grown very successfully by Mr. Elphinstone, gardener to John Heywood, Esq., the Grange, Stretford, Manchester. We received from him a spike of it bearing seven flowers—a perfect marvel of cultivation. We should like to see this gorgeous plant better managed than it generally is, it being, when grown as Mr. Elphinstone grows it, without exception the most showy Orchid in cultivation.

PL. 59. VANDA ROXBURGHII.

VANDA ROXBURGHII.
[[Plate 59].]
Native of India.

Epiphytal. Stems dwarf, stout, erect, leafy, with aërial roots from the lower portion. Leaves two-ranked, evergreen, leathery, light green, ligulate, channelled, obliquely tridentate at the apex. Flowers six to twelve, in erect axillary racemes longer than the leaves, tessellated; sepals and petals oblong-obovate, obtuse, undulated, white on the exterior surface, the inner side pale green, marked with olive-brown in chequered lines; lip three-lobed, projected backwards near the middle to form a short pinkish spur; the lateral lobes lanceolate, sharp-pointed, about as long as the column, white; the middle lobe convex, with the sides inflected beneath, ovate, emarginate and very obtuse, channelled, violet-purple, deeper towards the apex. Column short, thick, obtuse, white.

Vanda Roxburghii, R. Brown, in Botanical Register, t. 506; Lindley, Genera and Species of Orchidaceous Plants, 215; Id. Folia Orchidacea, art. Vanda, No. 4; Id. Paxton’s Flower Garden, t. 42, fig. 2; Hooker, Botanical Magazine, t. 2245; Van Houtte, Flore des Serres, ii., t. 11; Wight, Icones Plantarum Indiæ Orientalis, iii., t. 916; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 307.

Vanda tessellata, Loddiges; Paxton’s Magazine of Botany, vii., 265 (var. with rosy lip).

Vanda tesselloides, Reichenbach fil., in Walpers’ Annales Botanices Systematicæ, vi., 864.

Cymbidium tesselloides, Roxburgh, Flora Indica, iii., 463.

We now bring before our readers a plant that few of the present generation of Orchid growers have seen, but one which we think they all should possess, as it requires but little space, and produces its flower-spikes on very small specimens. Our plate will give some idea of this, as it represents a full-sized plant, with a spike of very charmingly coloured flowers. There are several varieties of this species known, among which we consider the one which our plate pourtrays to be an excellent form. The plant represented is in the collection of W. Lee, Esq., Downside, Leatherhead. We are delighted to know that Mr. Lee is taking up the cultivation of the Vandas (of which he possesses a splendid collection), and intends devoting a centre table in one of his houses to their accommodation. There are no Orchids that flower so freely when they are well grown; indeed, Mr. Lee blooms many plants of Vanda tricolor while quite small. When the specimens attain a large size they flower two or three times a year, lasting each time some six weeks, or even more, in perfection. They are extremely fragrant, imparting a grateful odour to the whole atmosphere of the house. Other growers also are paying more regard to these beautiful plants, which we are glad to observe, as, though they flower so often, they do not require so much heat as some East Indian kinds.

Vanda Roxburghii is a dwarf compact growing plant, with light green foliage. The flower-spikes proceed from the axils of the leaves, and are upright, bearing from six to twelve flowers. The sepals and petals are of a greenish yellow, netted with purplish brown, the lip being of a bright mauve colour. This plant usually blossoms in May, and lasts six weeks in full beauty; but it sometimes varies as to the time of flowering.

The treatment which we find to suit this plant is to grow it in a basket suspended from the roof, where it procures a good amount of light, being merely shaded in summer when the sun is hot. It does best at the coolest end of the East Indian house. We have also cultivated it in a pot with good drainage and sphagnum moss; it requires a moderate supply of water in summer, but in winter only just sufficient should be given to moisten the moss.

Watering Orchids.—There can be no doubt that Orchids, like other plants, are particular as to the fluids given to them to nourish their roots. We often hear growers say, that the water obtainable in the particular locality where they may reside is hard, and that their plants do not thrive as they should do. We can fully sympathise with these men, as we know that hard water is bad for Orchids as well as for other plants. Hardwooded plants especially will not thrive if the water they receive does not suit them; but it must be borne in mind that these plants have fine hair-like roots, and are much sooner killed than Orchids which have thick fleshy roots. When conversing the other day with an Orchid grower from the north of England, who said that his plants were not doing well, that he could not keep the sphagnum moss alive—which he attributed to the use of hard water—and that he consequently put up a cistern for rain-water, and employed that, we were not surprised to hear that the result had been to improve the health of the plants, and that the moss was now growing luxuriantly.

There is a great difference between different hard waters; some contain a quantity of iron, while others contain lime; these when used for syringing leave white marks upon the foliage. We believe water containing chalk and lime to be beneficial to some kinds of Orchids, especially Cypripediums; in fact, some growers use chalk or broken limestone mixed with charcoal and peat to grow them in, and they succeed very well in it. We have frequently seen distinct traces of lime on imported Cypripediums. An importation of Cypripedium Spicerianum, received some time ago, was literally covered with lime deposit, probably owing to the plants having been found growing in the fissures of limestone rocks, where the water trickled down upon them. We should think that water containing iron would be the most injurious to Orchids.

PL. 60. LÆLIA PERRINII.

LÆLIA PERRINII.
[[Plate 60].]
Native of Brazil.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs (stems) club-shaped, under a foot in height, becoming furrowed when old. Leaves solitary, oblong-obtuse, about as long as the stems, coriaceous, of a dark green colour. Spathes oblong, compressed, green, often tinged with purple. Scape two-flowered, purplish. Flowers large, about six inches in expansion, richly coloured; sepals linear-oblong, bluntish, the lateral ones falcate, of a diluted magenta-rose; petals broader, oblong-lanceolate, of the same colour as the sepals; lip oblong-lanceolate, three-lobed, unguiculate, the base forming an inflated fistular cavity, the lateral lobes erect, acute, convergent over the column, the middle lip elongate, oblong-obtuse, wavy at the margin, the basal portion white inside, washed externally with magenta, the front part of an intense velvety purple-crimson. Pollen-masses eight.

Lælia Perrinii, Lindley, Botanical Register, 1842, under t. 62; Paxton’s Magazine of Botany, xiii., 5; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 207.

Cattleya Perrinii, Lindley, Botanical Register, 1838, t. 2; Hastingen, Paradisus Vindobonensis, i., t. 10.

Bletia Perrinii, Reichenbach fil., in Walpers’ Annales Botanices Systematicæ, vi., 421.

The Lælia Perrinii is a very old species, and one that nearly all Orchid growers have seen or had in their possession, but we do not consider it too ancient to be introduced to the notice of our subscribers. It is a useful acquisition to the Orchid house, as it flowers when there are few Lælias, or any other Orchids in bloom. There are several varieties of this Lælia, which vary in colour, some being much paler than others. The form we here illustrate is part of an importation we received a few years ago, many of which bore blossoms of the same colour as that here represented. A pure white variety also came from the same locality at the same time, but the latter is very rare, there being only a few plants in this country. The white-flowered forms seem to be making their appearance in many of the species of Lælia and Cattleya. We are glad to notice this, as they make a very pretty contrast with the dark-coloured flowers, of which we have so many in these two genera—genera which resemble each other very closely, the only tangible difference being in the number of pollen-masses.

Lælia Perrinii is an evergreen plant, with dark green foliage and pseudobulbs, the leaves being about a foot high, and the pseudobulbs ten inches. The flower-spikes proceed from the top of the bulbs, and issue from a sheathing bract; they appear after the plants have completed their growth. The sepals and petals are of a light tint of magenta colour, while the lip is of a dark purple-crimson, with a rich yellow throat. The species blooms in October and November, and continues for about two weeks in perfection.

It requires the same treatment as Cattleya Mossiæ, and is best grown in a pot with good drainage and fibrous peat. It must be kept moist at the roots during the growing season, but after it has completed its growth less water will do, that is, merely enough to keep the roots and leaves in a plump state. When it recommences to grow a little water may be applied to encourage it to make strong growths, which are the precursors of finer flowers. The plants must be always fully exposed to light by being kept near the glass.

Orchids at Bickley.—A recent visit to Oldfield, the residence of F. A. Philbrick, Esq., Q.C., reminds us of the grand collection of Orchids in Avenue Road, Regent’s Park, many of the best of which were sold on Mr. Philbrick changing his residence. It is surprising to find the rapid way in which a new collection is now being grown and brought together in the new place. Houses had to be built, and the plants removed from one garden to the other, which, of course, involves more or less of injury. It is now twelve months since we visited this place, and the change that has taken place in that interval in respect to the collection of Orchids is remarkable, and highly creditable to Mr. Heims, the gardener. The plants have real vigour about them, sending out their growths and making roots freely, which is a sure sign they are doing well. The Cattleya house is a well-built structure, having plenty of light, with provision for a good circulation of air, two things very essential to the successful cultivation of Orchids. Mr. Philbrick is doing the right thing in securing the very best species and varieties, for, as he remarked to us, “they take up no more room than the bad ones, which are dear at any price.” We noticed some grand specimens of Lælia purpurata in bloom, with many spikes of flowers, and there were some wonderful varieties among them; also some large specimens of Cattleya Mossiæ in bloom. Of Sobralia macrantha there were large specimens which had been very fine; and of Cattleya Mendelii some fine varieties. Near to these stood several good Lælias, such as L. elegans, L. anceps alba, and L. anceps Dawsoni, which were growing vigorously. Epidendrum ritellinum majus was at the time finely in bloom.—B. S. W.

PL. 61. VANDA PARISHII MARRIOTTIANA.

VANDA PARISHII MARRIOTTIANA.
[[Plate 61].]
Native of Moulmein.

Epiphytal. Plant dwarf, compact, evergreen, the stem short, with closely-set leaves, and thick aërial roots. Leaves distichous, ligulate-obtuse, with an unequal bilobed apex, stout and fleshy in texture, narrower, less drooping, and more densely set than in the type. Scape axillary, the spike erect, bearing several (about six) flowers. Flowers large, scentless, but remarkable for their beautiful colouring; sepals roundish-obovate, the outer surface pale mauve, with darker mauve blotches, and a well developed white keel, the inner surface bronzy-brown, richly suffused with magenta; petals similar in form and size, wholly mauve-coloured exteriorly, and within of the same brownish magenta tint as the sepals; lip auricled at the base, and produced into a short gibbous spur, the auricles white, with longitudinal mauve stripes, and two yellow blotches beneath the column, the interior portion of the richest magenta or lake-carmine, rhomboid, gibbous below the apex, and having a keel along the median line, and a conical callus at the base. Column bent forward, white marked with purple.

Vanda Parishii Marriottiana, Reichenbach fil., in Gardener’s Chronicle, N.S., xiii., 743; xv., 726.

Of this handsome novelty Professor Reichenbach observes, that it is “a very unexpected glorious surprise.” We are indebted to the courtesy of H. J. Ross, Esq., Castagnolo, à Lastra, à Signa, Italy, for the opportunity of figuring it, he having been kind enough to send us a flower-spike, accompanied by a coloured sketch of the entire plant; we have since exchanged a few plants of it with him, and from these several materials our plate has been prepared.

Vanda Parishii Marriottiana was first flowered by Sir W. H. S. Marriott, Bart., in honour of whom it was named by Professor Reichenbach. It is totally distinct from the type, which was figured in the first volume of this work under [Plate 15]; and from which it will be seen that while in that the sepals and petals are distinctly spotted, they are in the variety before us of a bronzy brown, richly suffused with magenta, the lip being altogether of a rich magenta, as in the original form. This variety also differs from the type in having scentless flowers; and, moreover, the growth of the plant is altogether distinct, the leaves being more closely set on the short stem, as well as narrower, and less drooping.

A curious fact is mentioned by Professor Reichenbach, in his original description of this choice variety, namely, that, when fading, the blossoms take on an olive-green tint with dark blotches, thus in some degree reverting to the original colours.

Vanda Parishii Marriottiana requires the same treatment as other Vandas, and which has been already described under [Plate 15].

Orchids in France.—The Chateau de Gouville is situated about twelve miles from Rouen, in a most picturesque part of Normandy, and is the country seat of the Comte de Germiny, a nobleman who is a most ardent admirer of Orchids, and spares no pains to extend his very fine collection, which is unequalled in France. The plant houses are situated near to the Chateau, and are well built of iron and stone, having circular roofs. On entering the first, which is filled with Caladiums and Gloxinias, one is at once struck with the beauty of these flowers; there is an endless variety of colour in the collection, and the size of the flowers is remarkable, larger than any we have previously met with. There is yet another house entirely filled with Gloxinias, which we had to pass through, when a large house is reached, where Stove Plants with ornamental foliage are planted out in the central portion, forming a handsome parterre, through which a stream of water flows. Above this natural undergrowth, the Vandas and Saccolabiums are suspended in baskets, and as a collection, are the finest we have ever seen. Among them we noted grand plants of V. suavis, of V. tricolor and its finest varieties, and of V. cœrulea, some of them being several feet high, and in perfect health. We also noticed enormous masses of Saccolabiums growing on suspended blocks of wood, as imported. The plants evidently like this treatment, as they are rooting most profusely among the undergrowth, and the effect is indeed most charming. On the side stages are some grand plants of Phalænopsis Schilleriana, and of P. amabilis, as well as numerous Saccolabiums, Aërides, &c. We noticed a nice plant of the rare Renanthera matutina in bloom; this is a little gem, reminding one of a miniature Renanthera coccinea. At one end of this fine house, growing on rustic stands, is a fine collection of Nepenthes, forming together with the Orchids and other plants, as viewed from the entrance, a truly imposing tropical scene.

Leaving this house, we came to a compartment where are some grand plants of Cœlogyne cristata, with large masses of Pescatoreas, Bolleas, Dendrobes, &c., in vigorous health. The Cattleya house contains some wonderful examples of cultivation; we noticed particularly the following:—Cattleya exoniensis in bloom; two fine specimens of C. labiata pallida just past flower; Lælia elegans alba; L. Perrinii, fine specimens in bloom; Cattleya gigas just opening; and several grand plants of C. Trianæ, showing quantities of flower, as well as of C. Mossiæ, and Lælia purpurata.

In the Odontoglossum house are many fine plants of good varieties and of rare species, all doing well, and presenting a picture of health. Here we saw the true Cypripedium Chantinii flowering profusely, and C. Spicerianum with several spikes. A small house adjoining this is entirely devoted to Phalænopsids, the plants being suspended from the roof in baskets over tanks of water, which method of cultivation seems to agree well with them.

Altogether this is one of the finest collections of Orchids we have ever had the good fortune to see, the East Indian kinds being especially well cultivated. Great credit is due to M. Rondeau, the gardener, for the manner in which he manages his plants, and as M. le Comte remarked to us, for a gardener to grow his plants well, he must love them as he loves his children.—H. Williams.

PL. 62. MASDEVALLIA IGNEA.

MASDEVALLIA IGNEA.
[[Plate 62].]
Native of New Grenada.

Epiphytal. Stems slender, erect, tufted. Leaves evergreen, coriaceous, six to eight inches long, the blade deep green, elliptic-oblong, blunt or notched at the apex, keeled behind, and narrowed below into a long slender channelled petiole, which is invested at the base by one or two membranous sheaths. Scapes slender, radical, ten to twelve inches long, invested at the base by sheaths, and having a sheathing bract beneath the blossom like those of the leaves. Flowers remarkable in form, and brilliant in colour, paler on the outer surface; dorsal sepal keeled, attenuate or subfiliform from a triangular base, bent down between the two lateral sepals so as to occupy the sinus, pale orange-red; lateral sepals connate below, elliptic-oblong, acute or apiculate, obliquely incurved, of a vivid cinnabar-red or glowing orange-scarlet, with three deeper red nerves; all united at the base into an incurved gibbous tube; petals white, small, included, ligulate, acute, hastately auricled at the base in front; lip white, small, enclosed, unguiculate, linguiform, subcordate at the base, crenulate in front. Column erect, wingless.

Masdevallia ignea, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, 1871, 1482; Hooker fil., Botanical Magazine, t. 5962; Moore, Florist and Pomologist, 1873, 169, with coloured plate; André, Illustration Horticole, t. 333; Gardeners’ Chronicle, 1872, 545, fig. 149; Floral Magazine, 2 ser., t. 15.

This is a most distinct species of Masdevallia, and one that should be welcomed wherever richly coloured flowers are required, whether it be for exhibition purposes, or as a distinct companion to the other fine members of this genus. For the supply of cut flowers it will be found invaluable, on account of its distinct glowing colour. There are a great many varieties among the species of this genus—some of which are infinitely superior to the one here figured, and the most select and distinct of which we hope to be able to illustrate at a future time. We find upon reference to those publications wherein the various Masdevallias have been figured, that the several artists have done but scant justice to their remarkable beauty, owing, we suppose, to the frequent want of the pigments necessary to represent truthfully their rich colouring and markings. We refer here more particularly to that section of the genus represented by M. Harryana. Since the publication of some of those plates, however, the chemist has had the good fortune to discover the two lovely colours, magenta and mauve, by the aid of which we are now enabled to pourtray more accurately than before these wonderful productions of nature, the Orchids, in which the two colours referred to largely preponderate.

Masdevallia ignea is a dwarf growing evergreen species, producing its flowers singly on erect growing peduncles during the summer months, and lasting for some weeks in perfection. It was introduced from New Grenada in 1870. Our plate was taken from a well-grown plant flowered in the fine collection of C. Dorman, Esq., The Firs, Lawrie Park, Sydenham, under the care of Mr. Coningsby.

The Masdevallias require a copious supply of water all the year round, but more particularly when they are making young growths; abundance of air and efficient shade, with a temperature varying from 45° to 50°, are also necessary to their free development. The treatment is more fully explained under [Plate 24].

These plants are subject to the attacks both of the thrips and the green fly, which should be vigorously pursued and destroyed. Should they become numerous, the plants should be carefully fumigated, say two or three times a week, until the pests are annihilated. When the smoke is applied, care should be taken to have the plants dry, and to remove those which are in bud or in flower. Propagation is effected by division just before the plants begin to grow.

Edinburgh International Horticultural Exhibition, September, 1882.—There were many Orchids at this Show, which, we think, our readers will be pleased to see noticed, especially as it was late in the season for Orchids to be in bloom. There were many fine specimen plants shown in the various classes. A. Paul, Esq., exhibited a fine plant of Cattleya Harrisonii, with thirteen spikes of its delicate-coloured blossoms; also the lovely and rare Lælia Turnerii, with its rich-coloured flowers, eight on each spike; and a fine specimen of Saccolabium, quite distinct in character, with a very large and long spike of flowers; the same plant last year produced four spikes, each nearly two feet in length, and is itself eighteen inches in height, and two feet across; the showy Odontoglossum grande was very finely shown, also Vanda suavis. W. McDonald, Esq., of Perth, had some fine plants; we noticed a well-cultivated Cattleya crispa superba, with fine spikes of flowers; also, Odontoglossum grande, with seven spikes of bloom; this is one of the most showy and best of Orchids at this time of the year. The same grower also exhibited a good specimen of O. Pescatorei, and the rare Cattleya exoniensis, which was in fine colour. From C. Walker, Esq., of Brettagh Holt, came some fine plants of Odontoglossum grande. The most extraordinary specimen was Renanthera coccinea, which was exhibited by Mrs. Tait, Milrig, Galston; it stood five feet in height, with four of its richly-coloured spikes of blossom, one of which bore about one hundred expanded flowers; it was a most gorgeous sight, especially as it bloomed in such a small state, for the plant, as a rule, makes a long growth before it commences flowering. Dr. Paterson, of the Bridge of Allan, exhibited a most charming variety of Cattleya Dowiana; and J. Douglas, Esq., of Dalkeith, showed a fine form of Cattleya gigas. Our limited space will not permit us to say more.—B. S. W.

PL. 63. CŒLOGYNE PANDURATA.

CŒLOGYNE PANDURATA.
[[Plate 63].]
Native of Borneo.

Epiphytal, Pseudobulbs large, somewhat compressed, oblong ovate, bearing about two leaves at the summit. Leaves large, broadly-lanceolate, plaited, eighteen inches long, many-nerved. Scape radical, produced with the young growth, supporting a pendulous raceme somewhat longer than the leaves. Flowers numerous, rather distant, large, four inches across when fully expanded, fragrant, each one issuing from the axil of a brown cucullate deciduous bract as long as the pedicel; sepals and petals linear-oblong, acute, pale green; lip concave at the base, cordate-oblong, appearing to be panduriform from the inflection at the sides, retuse, setaceo-acuminate, the edges crisped, green marked with blackish veins and stains, the disk with three keels and two deep double-warted crests on each side, the crests converging towards the middle of the lip, where they are lost amongst a series of irregular rugged often two-lobed warts. Column green, with the edges thin and rounded.

Cœlogyne pandurata. Lindley, Gardeners’ Chronicle, 1853, 791; Id. Folia Orchidacea, art. Cœlogyne, No. 7; Hooker, Botanical Magazine, t. 5084; Bateman, Second Century of Orchidaceous Plants, t. 160; Van Houtte, Flore des Serres, t. 2139; Reichenbach fil., Xenia Orchidacea, t. 121; Id. Walpers’ Annales Botanices Systematicæ, vi., 224.

As a curiously beautiful plant this Orchid is perhaps unequalled. It is very rarely met with in a flowering state in collections, which is the more to be wondered at, as though the flowers are not bright in colour, yet on account of the peculiar association of tints—light green and black—and their large size, it makes a very attractive object. The flowers are produced upon drooping spikes from the young growths during the summer, and continue for some time in perfection.

Cœlogyne pandurata is a native of Borneo, where, according to Mr. Low, it is common on trees, in shady places overhanging water. It thrives best in the temperature of the Cattleya house, and during the period of growth requires a good supply of water. After the growth is complete, less water must be given, until it begins again to show signs of starting into fresh growth, when the supply should be gradually augmented.

The specimen here figured was flowered in the fine collection of Baron J. H. Schrœder, The Dell, Staines, under the care of Mr. Ballantyne, the gardener, who seems to be very successful in the cultivation of this interesting plant.

The root material in which we find it to succeed best, is a compost of peat, with a little moss and charcoal added. It does well either in a pot or in a basket, suspended from the roof, but should be well shaded from the sun, as too much sunlight causes the leaves to become spotted and look sickly, and this is very detrimental to the plants. It will be found to be a very free-growing species, when it obtains the treatment it requires.

The plant is propagated by separating the pseudobulbs just before they start into growth.

Orchids in France.—The Chateau de Ferrières, the country seat of Baron Alphonse de Rothschild, in the department of Seine et Marne, is situated about 33 kilometres from Paris, and about two miles from the station Ozouer la Ferrière, on the Ligne de Mulhouse. Orchid growers, when in Paris, would do well to pay this wonderful place a visit, since it is unequalled both for size and beauty by any other place in France. Here Orchids are well cared for, Mr. Bergman, the gardener, being very successful in their cultivation, admirably seconded as he is by his son, who passed some years in this country, studying gardening in all its branches.

Commencing with the Vanda house we were pleased to find these noble plants so much at home, there being several remarkable specimens of V. suavis, V. tricolor, and V. tricolor insignis, marvels of cultivation. Vanda cœrulea is doing well and flowering profusely. V. Lowei is represented by a plant of enormous dimensions, having four strong growths, and is one of the finest plants we have ever seen. The species of Phalænopsis are also well grown here, in company with the Vandas, and right well do they seem to like their company, since there are some wonderful plants of nearly all the species, thriving well and making strong flowering spikes. In the Cattleya house are some fine healthy plants of all the best species and varieties thriving admirably. Mr. Bergman gives his plants plenty of light, which causes them to look somewhat yellow, but he gets his bulbs ripened off well, and flowers them in greater profusion. Passing from here to the new Odontoglossum house we find a grand collection of these favourite Orchids. These plants are grown very largely here, as cut Orchids are in great request.

In another house are some other fine Vandas, associated with ornamental Stove Plants. Doing well in the same house, near the door, are a quantity of plants of Vanda teres, planted out in a compost of moss and charcoal, which is kept together on the stage of the house by a wirework edging. Here the plants are allowed to grow freely until they touch the glass, when they are cut down and replanted. All the light possible is given them, together with a copious supply of water, and the plants flower luxuriantly every year. Mr. Bergman, Jun., informed us that last year 651 flowers were cut from these plants. We recommend cultivators to give this plant a trial in the way above described, as it is one of the richest gems of the Orchid world. Cœlogyne Massangeana was doing well; one plant, having ten spikes, was suspended from the roof, and was an object never to be forgotten.

H. Williams.

PL. 64. ODONTOGLOSSUM ROEZLII.

ODONTOGLOSSUM ROEZLII.
[[Plate 64].]
Native of Colombia.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs narrowly ovate, two inches long, compressed, with acute margins. Leaves elongately linear-lanceolate, acuminate, nearly or quite a foot in length, keeled behind, and there marked with nine nervose striæ, the colour a clear pale green. Scapes short, slender, terete, three to six-flowered (according to Rchb.), erect, with subulate pale green bracts shorter than the pedicels, which pass gradually into the slender grooved ovary. Flowers three to four inches across, flat, exceedingly chaste and effective; sepals obovate-oblong acute, sub-equal, snow-white; petals similar to the lateral sepals in form, but rather broader, pure white, marked with a distinct transverse purplish-red band at their base; lip large, two and a half inches across, broadly obcordate, or cuneately flabellate, obtusely bilobed, with a mucro in the sinus, sagittate or bearing a spur-like horn directed upwards and backwards on each side at the base of the short claw, and having three short slender keels on the disk in front of the horns, and a pair of short calli interposed; the disk has a largish yellow blotch streaked with red, while the rest of the surface is snow-white. Column short, wingless.

Odontoglossum Roezlii, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, 1873, 1302, fig. 269; Id. Xenia Orchidacea, t. 182, fig. 1; Hooker fil., Botanical Magazine, t. 6085; Bateman, Monograph of Odontoglossum, t. 30; Floral Magazine, ser. 2, t. 90.

This grand Odontoglot, which has been designated “a first-class beauty,” and which comes near to Odontoglossum vexillarium, was introduced in 1873 by Mr. B. Roezl, the very successful traveller and Orchid hunter, who has so well worked up the greater part of the Western hemisphere in the search after these plants, and to whose zeal and energy Orchid growers are so deeply indebted for the many rich gems he has introduced to cultivation. The species was most properly named by Professor Reichenbach after Mr. Roezl, and we are glad to be able to figure it, in order to remind Orchid growers how much they owe to the unflinching perseverance of one who has now retired from active life among his favourites. The best compost in which to cultivate this plant, is a mixture of peat and moss, with good drainage.

Odontoglossum Roezlii is one of the few Odontoglots that require to be grown in a warm temperature. The Cattleya house will be found to be the best position for it, and if the plants are suspended either in pots or in baskets from the roof of the house, where a copious supply of water can be given to them, they will be found to thrive well. This species is particularly liable to the attacks of the thrips, and great care should be exercised in searching for and destroying them. We have found flowers of sulphur mixed with water, and applied to the young growths with a camel’s-hair pencil, very beneficial in preventing the attacks of this insect, while the application does not at all injure the young and tender parts. The thrips has a great aversion to sulphur—in fact will not go near it.

The drawing from which our plate is prepared was taken from the select collection of D. Tod, Esq., Eastwood Park, Thorliebank, near Glasgow, who is not only forming a nice collection of Orchids, but who flowers this species very freely, and cultivates it better than we have seen it grown in any other collection. We have had these plants under our notice for the past three years, and believe Mr. Tod’s gardener has hit upon the right method of treatment, the plants being very strong and vigorous, with clean healthy foliage. The specimens at Eastwood Park are grown in a warm house, near the glass, with plenty of moisture during the summer season, and even in winter they are kept moist at the roots.

Orchids at Bickley.—We are glad to see the East Indian Orchids well represented in the new collection being got together by F. A. Philbrick, Esq., Q.C., at Bickley. They are grown in a house where they are associated with stove plants. Here are seen some fine examples of Vanda, Saccolabium guttatum in bloom, also a wonderful specimen of Aërides affine, with many spikes just coming into flower. We, moreover, noticed some fine plants of Cypripedium in bloom in the same house. The cool house is well filled with fine examples of Odontoglossum and Masdevallia, which are promising to make fine plants. Many kinds of Masdevallia were in bloom when we saw them, amongst them an especially fine dark variety of M. ignea in full beauty, and some varieties of M. Harryana were very bright in colour. Odontoglossum Alexandræ was well represented by several varieties in bloom. A cool and airy house is set apart for Dendrobiums, and alongside this is a house devoted entirely to Phalænopsis containing a fine lot of healthy plants, all hanging in baskets near the light, but shaded from the sun, which bid fair to eclipse their predecessors in this collection.—B. S. W.

Cattleya superba.—We have received a very fine spike of blossom of this splendid Cattleya from the choice collection of O. Schneider, Esq., Cromwell Grange, Fallowfield, near Manchester. The inflorescence was cut from a remarkably well-grown specimen, and bore six flowers. We have never seen better managed plants of this species than are to be found at this place; they do great credit to Mr. Holmes.—B. S. W.

Cattleya virginalis.—A fine variety of this chaste Orchid comes to us from R. P. Percival, Esq., Birkdale, Southport. The sepals and petals are pure white, and the lip white, with an orange spot at the entrance to the throat. This species is very strongly scented.—B. S. W.

PL. 65. COMPARETTIA MACROPLECTRON.

COMPARETTIA MACROPLECTRON.
[[Plate 65].]
Native of New Grenada.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs small, oblong, truncate, compressed or flattish, with the angles rounded, of a pinkish colour, monophyllous or sometimes a second leaf sheathing the bulb. Leaves oblong ligulate, acute, keeled, bright green, shining. Peduncles slender, drooping, lateral, sheathed at the base by ovate-lanceolate bracts, and bearing a secund raceme of flowers having minute scale-like bracts at the base of their inch-long pedicels. Flowers large, of a delicate rose colour, prettily spotted; dorsal sepal ligulate acute, umbonate at the back near the base; lateral sepals ligulate acute, fornicate, connate into a slender pointed spur two inches in length, all blush-white, thickly spotted with purple; petals cuneate-ovate acute, purplish rose, covered with deep rosy purple dots; lip with a pair of blunt-angled auricles at the base, and a linear keel-shaped claw, the anterior lobe subquadrate, an inch and a half broad, emarginate with an apiculus, of a pleasing delicate tint of soft magenta-rose, deeper near the claw, where it is marked by a few purple spots, the sides crenate or repand, the two included spurs of the lip elongate, and finely papulose, orange coloured in the inferior half. Column free, erect, with a perpendicular ridge in the middle of the stigmatic hollow.

Comparettia macroplectron, Reichenbach fil. et Triana, in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., x., 524; Id. xi. 398.

The Comparettias form a small genus of very dwarf-growing Orchids, some of the species of which are, not only very beautiful, but also free blooming. That which we now illustrate is a most charming plant. The original, from which the drawing was made, was sent to us by F. A. Philbrick, Esq., Q.C., of Oldfield, Bickley, and was a well-grown specimen, which did great credit to Mr. Heims, the gardener. Generally these plants have not been well managed, but latterly they appear to have been better looked after, and we have received, from Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., M.P., and others, specimens of other desirable kinds, which we hope to illustrate in due course. We are glad to find that our collectors are turning their attention to the importation of the Comparettias, as there are some lovely species among them. Moreover, they require but little space to grow them in, and they are always charming when in blossom.

Comparettia macroplectron is an evergreen and very floriferous plant, with small peculiarly-shaped pseudobulbs, and short bright green glossy leaves. The flower-spikes are produced from the base of the pseudobulbs, and bear five or sometimes more flowers in a drooping raceme. The sepals and petals are rose colour, the former paler than the latter, and both are spotted with a deeper tint of rose-purple; the lip is also of a beautiful delicate rose colour, which becomes deeper and purple-spotted near the base. The flowers are produced in July and August, and continue in perfection for some time.

This plant will thrive either in a basket or pan suspended from the roof, where it can receive a great amount of light, and in order to grow it successfully this plan should be followed. The species, which are all small growing subjects, are found on the branches of trees where they obtain just sufficient shade to screen them from the burning sun, and where they also get heavy dews at night, and sometimes a great amount of rain. It is during this rainy period that they make their growth and produce their flower spikes. Both the foliage and bulbs being small, they require careful attention as regards moisture at the roots.

We find the most suitable material in which to grow them, is a little fibrous peat and sphagnum moss with good drainage, so that the water may pass away without becoming stagnant. Some portion of this material should be changed each year, just as the plant begins to show signs of making its growth.

The Comparettias will not submit to be divided or cut; and we find the Cattleya house the most suitable structure to grow them in. They are subject to the attacks of white scale, and if these are allowed to accumulate, the plants will soon show signs of bad health, but if sufficient care is bestowed to keep them clean they will well repay the trouble which is taken, and afford great pleasure not only to those who are fond of Orchids, but also to those who take an interest in watching these floral treasures as they put out their new growths and beautiful flowers.

Orchids at Brentham Park, Stirling.—A visit to this place, the residence of R. Smith, Esq., is at all times a great treat, since it commands a grand view of the country around, surrounded by the distant mountains. Our chief source of attraction, of course, was the Orchids, of which there is here the largest and richest collection in Scotland. There are many fine plants of Cattleya, such as C. exoniensis, the best variety, which, when in bloom, must present a most gorgeous sight. C. amethystoglossa is also a fine specimen, and is the same beautifully spotted variety which was figured in Warner’s Select Orchidaceous Plants. Cœlogyne Massangeana is a wonderful example of good cultivation, with its pendulous spikes overhanging the pot. So is Zygopetalum Gautieri, with many spikes of its charming mauve-coloured flowers; and Odontoglossum Andersonianum, with fine branching spikes, which must be very beautiful when in bloom. Associated with this was a very fine O. Alexandræ, quite one of the best spotted varieties we have seen, which Mr. Smith kindly sent for our artist to copy.

There are many fine Odontoglots here, which are showing well for bloom. Since our visit last year there has been a new house erected for the Cattleyas, of which there is a good and well-grown collection. Mr. Smith is always looking out for the best varieties that can be procured.—B. S. W.

PL. 66. ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISTATELLUM.

ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISTATELLUM.
[[Plate 66].]
Native of the United States of Columbia.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs ovate, one and a half to two inches long, pale green. Leaves one or two from each pseudobulb, ligulate-oblong, acute, narrowed to the base, keeled. Peduncles radical, terminating in a showy raceme of flowers, and furnished below with lanceolate pale brown bracts, smaller triangular bracts being produced at the base of the pedicels. Flowers two and a half inches across, attractive in colour and marking; sepals and petals subhastate, broadish oblong-ovate above, acuminate, yellow, with a few large rich chestnut-brown blotches; lip short, narrow, the blade oblong-panduriform, apiculate, the margin much undulated and minutely denticulate, yellow at the base and chestnut-brown in front, bearing at the base of the disk subulate radiate calli, consisting of about six teeth on each side, and in front of these two rhomboid serrated lamellæ, all these parts yellowish, streaked (and the keels bordered) with chestnut-red. Column trigonous, arcuate, with violet spots in front of its base, and chestnut-red wings.

Odontoglossum cristatellum, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., x., 716; Id. xvii., 143.

Odontoglossum Lehmanni, F. C. Lehmann in litteris—fide Reichenbach.

The Odontoglossum cristatellum is described by Prof. Reichenbach as a near relative of O. cristatum. It is, without doubt, a very rare plant, one that has flowered in but few collections, and is supposed to be a natural hybrid. It is not perhaps so showy as some other Odontoglots, but still it is one that is quite worth cultivating. Our sketch was taken from a well-grown plant in the collection of O. Schneider, Esq., Cromwell Range, Fallowfield, Manchester. This gentleman, who has an excellent collection of Orchids, has houses set apart for the various kinds, and we may say that our visit there gave us very great satisfaction, as we there saw many well-grown plants of species that are usually found difficult to cultivate.

Odontoglossum cristatellum is a compact evergreen plant, growing from ten inches to a foot in height. It is furnished with light green foliage and produces its flower-spikes at different periods of the year, according to the time of the completion of its growth; moreover, it lasts for several weeks in bloom. The plant requires to be grown in the cool Odontoglossum house, with the same treatment as O. Alexandræ, as regards soil, water, and temperature, fire-heat being always avoided if possible in summer. The less fire-heat the plants receive the more successful will be their growth, though, of course, in cold weather, some little fire will be required to keep the house up to the correct temperature, at the same time giving a little air, but avoiding cold draughts.

The Odontoglots are among the most accommodating of Orchids, as they are free-growing, and most of them free-blooming subjects. By having a stock of plants, a succession of flowers may be kept up all the year round in the case of such kinds as Odontoglossum Alexandræ, O. Pescatorei, and others. There are some amateurs who are not satisfied unless they possess some thousands of plants of the two species just named, and they argue correctly, that by obtaining so many they have the opportunity of selecting the good kinds for permanent cultivation, and of doing away with the bad ones, or else of using them for ordinary decorative purposes. The good varieties take up no more room than the indifferent ones, and both are valuable and beautiful in their respective departments.

Orchids at The Kilns, Falkirk, N.B., the seat of John Gair, Esq.—A short time since we paid a visit to this place, and we were well repaid for our journey. We always maintain that there is something to be learnt in every place, and we found it so here. Thus we often hear it remarked that Orchids and stove plants cannot be grown together, but we found in this collection that many stove plants were grown in the centre bed, while Orchids were suspended from the roof, the side tables also being full of Orchids. In this case the house was a large span-roofed one, and contained many kinds of Orchids, coming from countries various and diverse. The plants, consisting of many hundreds, were all grown together, and there was not one in bad condition among them. We propose to mention the different genera which have been cultivated in this house for several successive years, since we have been fortunate enough to be able to bear testimony to the progress they have made. On entering the house one’s attention is at once arrested by some finely grown specimens of Bollea, Huntleya, and Batemannia, all in luxuriant health. Next came Lælia purpurata, L. elegans, L. elegans prasiata, and others, all in the best possible condition, and flowering freely. There was also standing on the same table a well-grown collection of Cypripediums, consisting of all the choicest and best kinds, which were growing splendidly. Mr. Fairbairn appears to use a great deal of water, more than we do, for we were informed by him that he syringed them every day in summer, and kept them moist in winter, though at that season he does not syringe them so much. By the side of these were many fine plants of Dendrobiums, and other good Orchids. At the end, and on the other side of the house, there was a good collection of East Indian Orchids—Aërides, Saccolabiums, Angræcums, Vandas, &c., all doing well. Then came a fine lot of Cattleyas, such as C. Trianæ, C. Mendelii, C. gigas, C. Warnerii, C. Mossiæ, and others, all in excellent health. The centre table was furnished with many fine Orchids mixed with foliage plants, and from the roof were suspended such genera as Phalænopsis and Dendrobium, making fine growths, and enjoying the moisture from the stove plants below.—B. S. W.

PL. 67. THUNIA BENSONIÆ.

THUNIA BENSONIÆ.
[[Plate 67].]
Native of India—Rangoon.

Terrestrial. Stems deciduous, terete, one and a half to two feet high, swelling into tuberous knobs at the base, the lower part clothed with suborbicular green reflexed leafy sheaths, which, as they advance upwards, gradually pass into the leaves. Leaves sheathing, membranous, subdistichous, linear-lanceolate acuminate, glaucous beneath, six to eight or ten inches long. Flowers large and very showy, terminal, growing in short nodding racemes of ten to fifteen together, each emerging from a pale green sheathing bract, which encloses it while in bud; sepals and petals linear-lanceolate, partially spreading, two to three inches long, of a light magenta-purple striately distributed, and paler towards the centre; lip about three inches long, three-lobed, the lateral lobes short, obtuse, rolled round the column, toothed; middle lobe broadly oblong, flabellate, closely undulated and lobulate, of a very rich deep magenta-purple, the base produced into a short notched spur, the disk of a rich bronzy orange, bearing several ciliated keels. Column furnished with toothed wings at its apex.

Thunia Bensoniæ, Hooker fil., Botanical Magazine, t. 5694; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 298.

Phaius Bensoniæ, Hemsley, in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., xviii., 565.

This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and free-flowering of the Thunias. The colour of its gorgeous flowers is very uncommon in the Orchid family, and is very charming. It is a plant that should find a place in every collection, especially when seen in such a form as that represented in our drawing, taken from a plant to which we alluded when referring to the Orchids in bloom in the collection of W. Leach, Esq., Oakleigh, Fallowfield, Manchester—a collection very ably managed by Mr. Swan. The Orchid houses at Oakleigh are well arranged, so that the different temperatures required by plants coming from different localities are readily obtainable, and the plants being grown near the glass they have plenty of light. This is a great advantage to Orchids generally, as by this means the growths get better ripened, and this enables the plants to flower more freely, and to produce flowers of a richer colour.

Thunia Bensoniæ is a deciduous plant, losing its stems and foliage after it has finished its growth. It attains to a height of from eighteen inches to two feet, or sometimes more when the growths are strong. We have seen blooming plants eighteen inches in height. The flowers proceed from the top of the new stems at the time they are making their growth, and they continue blooming for some time. The sepals and petals are of a pale magenta colour, while the lip is much darker, of a rich purple, with a bronzy orange blotch. Sometimes the spikes produce as many as fifteen of these beautiful blossoms, which was the case with the plant from which our illustration was taken; they do not, however, all open at the same time, but follow in succession until the spike is exhausted.

The Thunias are all deciduous plants, and require different treatment from that given to evergreen Orchids. After their growth is completed, they require a season of rest, which must be given by putting them away in a dry part of the house. It is after they have finished their growth that their foliage begins to decay, and subsequently falls away. When in this dormant state they require just sufficient moisture to keep them from shrivelling. This treatment must be continued until March, when they will begin to show signs of growth; at that time they must be shaken out of the pots, the decayed roots cut off, and the plants re-potted, setting the bulbs one inch below the pot rim, and just into the soil, so that the young growths are not covered. We find rough fibrous peat and sphagnum moss suitable material for growing them in, and good drainage is indispensable, as the plants require a considerable amount of water when they are in a vigorous state, as their growth and flowering are both completed in about six months. Water should be sparingly applied until the stems are a few inches high, just sufficient being given to keep them moist until the roots are beginning to fill the pots; then a little manure water will benefit them, making them grow stronger and flower more freely.

They are of easy cultivation, and do not require deep pots, indeed pans from three to four inches deep will suit them, and they may be suspended from the roof, where they can get plenty of light. They will, however, thrive on tables if they receive all the light possible, and are shaded from the sun. We have also grown them on blocks, but grown in this way they require more frequent and copious supplies of water.

Thunias are readily propagated by taking off some of the old bulbs when the young growths are about ten inches in height, but only part of the old bulb should be removed or cut off, dividing it in pieces of about six inches in length, and placing these in sand. The growths proceed from the joints, and these make plants during the season; they must be potted in due course, and often bloom during their second year.

Odontoglossum coronarium miniatum.—We received in August last from the garden of Lord Rendlesham, M.P., Woodbridge, Suffolk, a fine inflorescence of this rare Odontoglot, which is seldom seen in flower. The spike bore twelve of its gay-looking yellow and brown flowers. In growth it resembles O. coronarium, only it is much smaller; the flowers also resemble those of that species, but they are, like the growth, considerably smaller. Many growers believe this to be the same as O. brevifolium, but the two plants are quite distinct, both in flower and in growth, besides which O. brevifolium is much the freer flowerer of the two.—B. S. W.

PL. 68. ODONTOGLOSSUM PESCATOREI VEITCHIANUM.

ODONTOGLOSSUM PESCATOREI VEITCHIANUM.
[[Plate 68].]
Native of New Grenada.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs roundish or bluntly ovate, slightly-ribbed, about an inch high, diphyllous. Leaves strap-shaped or lorate-oblong, narrowed both to the base and apex, six inches long, of a deep green colour. Peduncle springing from the base of the pseudobulb, a foot in height in the only specimen which has yet flowered, bearing a raceme of about half-a-dozen flowers rather closely placed back to back at its upper end, with minute bracts at the base of their pedicels. Flowers two and a half inches across, the most beautiful which have yet appeared amongst the forms of this species; sepals oblong acute, over an inch in length, pure white, marked with two or three transverse curved bars of the richest crimson-purple or wine-purple; petals broadly ovate apiculate, slightly wavy, white, more irregularly transversely blotched than the sepals with the same rich purple colour; lip undulated at the edge, heart-shaped at the base, contracted in the middle, dilated and cuspidate at the apex, white with a few purple spots round the basal lobes, the disk including the contracted parts bright yellow, furnished on each side with a flat lacerated appendage streaked with red, having a pair of parallel plates between, and bearing a few deep red spots. Column with short lacerated wings.

Odontoglossum Pescatorei Veitchianum, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., xvii., 588; Moore, Florist and Pomologist, 1882, 76.

There is no doubt that Odontoglossum Pescatorei is one of the most beautiful species of this extensive and exceedingly beautiful genus of Orchids. Its flowers borne in fine branching panicles, are most pleasing in their form and character, and of a chaste and lovely whiteness, besides which the plant is one of the most free-growing of the Odontoglots. There are in our collections many forms of this species, and most of them are well worthy of cultivation, the flowers being for the most part good in shape and of a pure white, which is a colour generally sought after by those who have a keen taste for floral beauty. A hundred of these gems can be cultivated in a small space, and they can now be purchased at so cheap a rate that they are within reach of everyone who can afford to erect a small house; and being really cool Orchids they require but little fire heat at any time, and none whatever during the summer months.

The variety, Veitchianum, which we now introduce to our readers, bears most charmingly and wonderfully spotted flowers, as will be seen from the accompanying plate. It bloomed last spring for the first time in the fine collection of Orchids belonging to Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, of Chelsea, who imported it with many thousands of plants referrible to this specific type, and amongst them many hundreds of good kinds have been flowered, but none approaching in richness of hue or in beauty of marking, to the one now before us. We hope the Messrs. Veitch may be fortunate enough to bloom more of the same, as cultivators will be glad to procure it for their collections. The plant in question has, we understand, now passed out of their hands into Baron J. H. Schroeder’s collection at Staines.

Odontoglossum Pescatorei Veitchianum has the same habit of growth as the type. The flowers on the specimen which bloomed last year, and was certificated both by the Royal Horticultural and Royal Botanic Societies, formed a close raceme, and were large and showy, the sepals and petals being white, heavily transversely blotched at the base with a lovely shade of crimson-purple, the lip being also white, and spotted around the base with the same colour, while the bright yellow disk was striately marked with crimson. This specimen bore several flowers on the spike, and we have no doubt that as the plant increases in strength the spikes will branch into panicles, as those of most of the plants of O. Pescatorei are branching in habit. They are graceful in appearance, and of long duration, which renders them most useful for decorative purposes, the more so as even when cut and placed in water they keep fresh for a long time. The treatment these plants require is the same as that of O. Alexandræ and the other cool-house Orchids.

The greatest pest in the cultivation of cool Orchids, and one which is consequently a great annoyance to cultivators, is a small black slug that takes up its home in the moss and about the plants, and which often eats many of the young flower spikes when they first appear. These should be sought after night and morning as it is at these periods they do their mischief. They seem to enjoy the temperature of the cool Orchid house. The method we adopt for catching them is to look the moss carefully over at once, when the spikes first appear, and be sure there are no slugs allowed to remain among it; then we place a wire round the pot, and suspend it from the roof, and in this manner we secure the flower spikes. This is done when they are young, which is the favourite time for these marauders to attack them. The plants are well worth this trouble, as after watching them for a length of time it is most annoying to find the flowers destroyed.

Odontoglossum Alexandræ.—We have received from H. J. Buchan, Esq., Wilton House, Southampton, a grand spike of a fine variety of this most variable Orchid. The flowers are large, and of fine form and substance; the sepals and petals are pure white, beautifully serrated; the lip is broad and distinctly coloured on the upper part. This is one of the best forms of O. Alexandræ we have met with. Mr. Buchan has a good collection of cool Orchids, and has been growing them for many years.—B. S. W.

Odontoglossum Jenningsianum.—R. Smith, Esq., Brentham Park, Stirling, has sent us a splendid inflorescence of this novelty. The flowers are produced in a panicle, which is much branched, and bears numerous blossoms. This species somewhat resembles a spotted form of O. Alexandræ in the markings of the flowers, but the form is more like that of O. Andersonianum.—B. S. W.

PL. 69. CATTLEYA ACLANDIÆ.

CATTLEYA ACLANDIÆ.
[[Plate 69].]
Native of Bahia.

Epiphytal. Stems (pseudobulbs) clavate, slightly furrowed, jointed, four to five inches long, sheathed at the joints with membranaceous spathes. Leaves terminal, two in number, elliptic, obtuse, thick and fleshy in texture, dark green. Scape terminal, bearing about two flowers and issuing from between the leaves. Flowers large, about three inches across, and strikingly beautiful from the boldly contrasted colours; sepals and petals nearly equal, somewhat fleshy, obovate-lanceolate, yellowish green heavily and transversely blotched and spotted with rich dark chocolate-purple, the markings more distinctly coloured on the inner surface, but apparent though less distinct on the back or exterior surface; lip large, fully two inches long, flat, panduriform, three-lobed, the lateral lobes pale rose marked with transverse veins, small and not enclosing the column, the front lobe one and a half inch across, broadly kidney-shaped, emarginate, of a bright magenta colour, the disk marked by a yellow line. Column dark magenta, parallel with the lip, obovate, with two wing-like margins.

Cattleya Aclandiæ, Lindley, Botanical Register, 1840, t. 48; Paxton’s Magazine of Botany ix, 1; Flore des Serres, t. 674; Illustration Horticole, t. 565; Hooker, Botanical Magazine, t. 5039; Bateman, Second Century of Orchidaceous Plants, t. 119; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed., 114.

The Cattleya Aclandiæ though a small-growing epiphyte, is one of the most beautiful of the Cattleyas, notwithstanding that there are several others which are of dwarf habit and produce richly coloured flowers. The specimen we now figure is growing in the fine collection of Baron J. H. Schröder, The Dell, Staines, to whom we are indebted for the opportunity of having our drawing made. It is a highly-coloured and finely marked form, quite as good as any we remember to have seen. This species does not, however, vary so much as many other kinds.

Cattleya Aclandiæ is an evergreen species of dwarf stature, growing about six inches in height, and blooming at different times of the year, previous to the completion of its new growths. It generally produces two or three flowers on a spike; the sepals and petals are greenish yellow, heavily blotched with chocolate-purple, while the lip is a bright magenta, distinctly veined, which gives it an unique appearance. When vigorous the plants frequently make a second growth, which also produces flowers, these lasting in perfection for several weeks.

We have found these plants do best grown in pans or baskets, in a compost of good fibrous peat and lumpy charcoal, and good drainage must be provided to ensure success. We have also seen them well cultivated on blocks of wood, but as they then require more attention as regards watering than when in pans or baskets, we prefer them grown in the latter way. An abundance of moisture should be provided for them during the growing season, when the plants will be throwing out their new roots. At this period close attention should be given in order to prevent the injuries that may occur from the attacks of insects on the young and tender roots, since these are frequently produced above the soil; even if the plants recover from such a check they are apt to get into a sickly condition, or to shrivel and dwindle away. Cattleya Aclandiæ is not one of the easiest of Orchids to cultivate, and for this reason it requires extra attention to keep it in good condition. We have, however, seen many fine plants of this beautiful species where it has had the treatment suitable to it. We have found the Cattleya house to afford the best temperature in which to grow it. A position as near the glass as possible, with not too much shade, will be found to suit it best; though care should always be taken to prevent the burning sun from injuring the leaves, and to keep the bulbs in a plump state, for, if allowed to shrivel or get into bad condition, the plants might as well be thrown away, since they seldom recover. During the resting season, therefore, sufficient water should be given to keep the bulbs from shrinking.

Always bear in mind that cleanliness is one of the great secrets of successful Orchid-growing, and that this little gem, if allowed to become the prey of insects or to get dirty, will invariably fall into a bad state of health from which it will rarely emerge. These pests may be kept under if taken in time. Both thrips and scale will sometimes attack the young growth, but they should be thoroughly routed out and destroyed.

Oncidium Phalænopsis.—This lovely Orchid comes to us from E. Salt, Esq., of Ferniehurst, Shipley, near Leeds. It is now extremely rare, and is seldom seen in collections. Mr. Salt informs us that this same plant, last year, before it was divided, produced one spike with six flowers. It is a glorious Orchid, allied to O. nubigenum and O. cucullatum; the flowers are, however, much larger than in either of these, and more beautifully coloured. The sepals and petals are cream coloured, barred, and spotted with purple; the lip is large, reniform, creamy white, spotted about the base with violet-crimson, the crest being golden yellow, and forming a striking contrast with the violet spotting which surrounds it. The species is a native of Peru.—B. S. W.

PL. 70. CYPRIPEDIUM FAIRRIEANUM.

CYPRIPEDIUM FAIRRIEANUM.
[[Plate 70].]
Native of Assam.

Epiphytal, Acaulescent. Leaves green, radical, leathery in texture, distichous, loriform, obliquely apiculate, the base carinate and equitant. Scapes solitary in the axils, longer than the leaves, green, pilose, terminating in a short sheathing woolly bract from which the blossom emerges. Flowers medium-sized, elegantly venose; dorsal sepal large, oblong-cordiform, ciliated, concave, the apex recurved, blunt, greenish white flushed with carmine and beautifully veined with bright crimson-purple; lateral connate sepals united into one small ovate obtuse sepal, which is whitish with streaks of green and crimson-purple; petals oblong-lanceolate, deflexed and recurved “like the horn of a buffalo”, hairy at the base, white flushed with green, and having longitudinal stripes and a marginal band of crimson-purple, the edge being undulated and ciliated; lip prominent, brownish-green with faint purple reticulations. Staminode orbicular-lunate, greenish white tinted with purple, downy, with a downy proboscis between the horns of the crescent.

Cypripedium Fairrieanum, Lindley, Gardeners’ Chronicle, 1857, 740; Hooker, Botanical Magazine, t. 5024; Van Houtte, Flore des Serres, t. 1244; Bateman, Second Century of Orchidaceous plants, t. 140; Reichenbach fil., Xenia Orchidacea, t. 133; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 5 ed. 153.

The Cypripediums form a very large genus of Orchids, which is also one of the most useful for decorating our Orchid-houses or plant stoves, as well as for exhibition purposes. Nearly all the species continue long in flower and are of easy cultivation. The plant before us was first flowered by A. Fairrie, Esq., of Aigburth, Liverpool, in 1857, and was exhibited in London by him and named by Dr. Lindley in his honour. Since that time it has become exceedingly rare, and is now to be met with in but very few collections. As far as we are aware it has only been once imported, a circumstance much to be regretted, as it is one of the most distinct and lovely of the whole family. Our drawing was made by M. P. Stroobant from a well-grown plant in the fine collection of Dr. Baddaert, of Ghent, Belgium, who has one of the best collections of Orchids in that country.

Cypripedium Fairrieanum is an evergreen dwarf-growing species, with light green leaves about three inches long. The flowers are produced singly on upright stalks. It blooms during the autumn months and continues in perfection for some considerable time.

This Cypripedium is not so free in its growth as many others, although we have seen it very fine in years gone by, and we are of opinion that if imported plants could only be obtained, cultivators would be able to succeed with it as well as with any other. There is no doubt that on account of the plant being so rare, those who fortunately possess it are too anxious to increase it, and too frequently cut the plants into small pieces, which get into a bad condition and ultimately die. We have found the East India house to afford the best temperature in which to cultivate it, though we have grown it equally well at the warmest end of a Cattleya house. The material used was fibrous peat and charcoal. The pots should be filled three parts full of broken potsherds, a layer of sphagnum moss being placed on the top of the drainage material; and in potting the plant requires to be kept well elevated above the rim of the pot, so that the roots may not become sodden. Not having the thick fleshy pseudobulbs which some Orchids possess to support them, these plants require more attention as regards the application of moisture to the roots. Water should be given judiciously even when the plants are in vigorous growth, as, if too much is applied, the potting material becomes soddened and the plants get sickly. This species does not root so freely as many of the stronger growing Lady’s Slippers and should be grown in a position where plenty of light is obtainable.

Cattleya aurea.—R. P. Percival, Esq., of Southport, has kindly sent us a glorious inflorescence of this splendid novelty, with four fully expanded flowers. This species resembles C. gigas in its growth, while the flowers are somewhat akin to those of C. Dowiana, but the markings on the lip are much brighter, and the golden yellow is much more prevalent than in C. Dowiana; the front part of the lip is bright magenta, while the sepals and petals are not partly rose coloured as in C. Dowiana, but are entirely nankin-yellow. Baron Schröder, of Staines, has also sent us a spike of this great beauty, but the variety differs a little from the preceding.—H. W.

Cypripedium Parishii.—A. Paul, Esq., of Edinburgh, sends us a fine spike of this curious Orchid, bearing six flowers. He informs us that the plant produced four spikes of six blooms each. When flowered in this way, it makes a fine object during the dull time of the year. It requires the same treatment as other Cypripediums, and delights in a good supply of moisture during the growing season.—B. S. W.

PL. 71. ODONTOGLOSSUM MADRENSE.

ODONTOGLOSSUM MADRENSE.
[[Plate 71].]
Native of the Sierra Madre of Mexico.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs ligulate or narrowly-oblong, ancipital, three inches or more in length, pale green. Leaves lorate or linear-lanceolate acute, nervose, keeled, usually two but sometimes one only from the apex of each pseudobulb, sometimes with a leaf sheathing the base. Scapes lateral, twelve to eighteen inches long, bearing an inclined raceme of from six to eight flowers from the axils of brown membranaceous triangular acuminate bracts. Flowers fragrant, white blotched with reddish purple, three and a half to four inches in their vertical diameter, and somewhat less transversely; sepals lanceolate, acuminate, keeled behind, about two inches long, white, with on oblong bilobed reddish purple blotch at the base; petals broader, oblong, apiculate, white, with a bilobed purple blotch twice as long as that of the sepals and more distinctly separate; lip smaller than the sepals and petals, recurved, with a short hollow claw, which bears two small retrorse lateral lobes, having between them and in front two collateral pairs of retuse bipapulose calli; the front lobe triangular or trowel-shaped, cuspidate, with crispy margins, white with the disk and calli orange-yellow. Column short, greenish, wingless, hairy at the base.

Odontoglossum madrense, Reichenbach fil., in Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., ii. 804; viii, 102.

Odontoglossum maxillare, Hooker fil., Botanical Magazine, t. 6144—fide Reichenbach; not of Lindley.

Our present subject, Odontoglossum madrense, is not only pretty but distinct, and very different in its growth, as well as in its flowers, from most of the Odontoglots, as will be seen by the accompanying figure, taken from the best grown specimen of the kind we have yet met with, which is in the select collection belonging to R. Vanner, Esq., of Camden Wood, Chislehurst, who certainly succeeds admirably in the cultivation of this plant. The subject from which our illustration was prepared, has flowered for two years in succession in the same grand way, and we have no doubt that as the plant gets more fully established it will produce more and more flowers on the spike. It is a very free-growing plant, but we find that it does best in a warmer temperature than that in which most Odontoglots thrive. The temperature of the Cattleya house seems to suit it best, and it should be suspended from the roof, and grown in a shallow pan in a compost of peat and sphagnum moss. It requires a liberal supply of water during the growing season, and should not be kept too dry when at rest, sufficient water being given to keep the soil moist, and the bulbs plump. We have also grown this plant successfully in the warm end of the Odontoglossum house.

Odontoglossum madrense is an evergreen plant, with upright pseudobulbs of a light green colour. The leaves are about six inches long. The flowers are produced on upright spikes which are produced from the sides of the bulbs after the plant has completed its growth; the sepals and petals are white with a large purplish brown blotch at the base of each; the lip is orange at the base, white in front. The plant blooms during the autumn months, and lasts for several weeks in perfection.

This is a plant that every Orchid-grower should possess, as it can be bought at a reasonable price, and does not take up much room. Propagation is effected by division, leaving two or three bulbs with the leading growth to each divided piece. We find the best time to perform this operation is just as the plant begins to start into growth. After division the young plants should be potted and kept in a shady place until they begin to grow, when more light should be given to them.

Mr. Lee’s Orchids.—The collection of Orchids at Downside, Leatherhead, is fast becoming the most important in this country. East India Orchids are special favourites with Mr. Lee, and this section of the family is well represented. In the Phalænopsis house are to be found several grand plants; we particularly noticed some well-grown specimens of Phalænopsis Schilleriana; one plant of P. amabilis was the largest we have ever seen in cultivation, having many growths, and showing several flower spikes; P. Stuartiana was well represented, and seems quite at home here; P. intermedia, with its varieties Portei and Brymeriana were also in good form; as well as P. violacea, which was in flower. Mr. Lee is not content with having a few plants of this lovely class of Orchids, but possesses them by the hundred, so fond is he of them. The Vanda house also contains some marvellous examples of cultivation, Vanda tricolor Warneri being well in bloom, also other varieties of the same species, together with V. lamellata Boxallii, &c. In the same house were some well grown plants of Cattleya Walkeriana, in flower, suspended from the roof. Amongst the Cattleyas was a fine variety of Cattleya labiata in flower, the picture of health. The different kinds of Aërides and Saccolabium were looking equally well. In the Lycaste house, Lycaste Skinneri amabile, and L. Skinneri alba were in flower, also a fine lot of Cattleya marginata, and of Lælia præstans, and L. Dayana; indeed we had never before seen such a grand display of those little gems. In the cool houses the different sorts of Odontoglossum and Masdevallia were represented by some magnificent plants, some of which were in flower. Mr. Lee is still building Orchid houses with a view to giving his plants more room. One house in particular took our fancy, but of this we hope to furnish some particulars at another time.—H. W.

PL. 72. MILTONIA REGNELLI PURPUREA.

MILTONIA REGNELLI PURPUREA.
[[Plate 72].]
Native of Brazil.

Epiphytal. Pseudobulbs ovate, obtuse, compressed, diphyllous. Leaves lorate, acute, narrowed to the base, pale green, about a foot long. Scapes bearing three or four large showy flowers, each with a small bract at the base of its pedicel. Flowers showy, larger than in the type, being nearly three inches across; sepals lanceolate, about an inch and one-fourth in length, of a delicate shade of rosy pink, paler almost white at the edges, and with a darker median line; petals oblong, somewhat broader than the sepals and similar in colour; lip flat, subpandurate, broad, one and a half inch across, emarginate at the apex, cuneate at the base, of an intense magenta-crimson, marked with indistinct reticulations of deeper crimson; the disk white, and furnished with three small elevated crests, of which the middle one is shorter. Column deep crimson at the base, whitish at the apex.

Miltonia Regnelli purpurea, Hort. Veitch; Williams, Orchid Grower’s Manual, 4 ed., 209; 5 ed., 224; Floral Magazine, t. 490.

The Miltonias form a small genus allied to Odontoglossum and containing some beautiful species and varieties, most of which have been inmates of our stoves and Orchid houses for many years. We remember some of them as long as we have had the management of Orchids, which is now for forty years, but even before that time there were large specimens cultivated in some old-established gardens, such as those at Bothwell Castle, where may now be found many fine plants of M. spectabilis and its variety, Moreliana, which have been grown by Mr. Turnbull, the gardener, for more than forty years. M. Clowesii and M. candida have been in cultivation for quite as long a period. We mention these facts to show to the present generation of Orchid-growers that they should not complain as they are apt to do, that these plants are difficult to cultivate. This is not the case, in witness whereof these grand old plants, which have been grown, as above stated, for so many years, without much care having been bestowed upon them, may be cited. In the collection above referred to, for example, they do not profess to cultivate Orchids specially, but grow them in the ordinary plant stoves. Surely the cultivators of the present day should have no difficulty in attaining the same degree of success. We have seen M. spectabilis as much as three feet across, one mass of bloom, a sight never to be forgotten. We do hope that Miltonias will be more grown than they are at present, as they come into flower at a time when comparatively few Orchids are in bloom, and keep on flowering during the autumn months. They will be found useful for cutting purposes, as well as for our autumn exhibitions. What, for example, could be more lovely than the plant of M. spectabilis, shown by A. Paul, Esq., at the Edinburgh Exhibition, in September of the present year?

The variety we now illustrate is a most beautiful one, and differs considerably from the type. We are indebted to the kindness of Mr. B. Findlay, of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Manchester, for the opportunity of figuring this gem, which was imported by him. Mr. Findley is a great lover of Orchids, and has a nicely grown collection of them, amongst which flowering specimens may be seen at all times of the year. This, Miltonia Regnelli purpurea, is much richer in its colouring than the original species. It is evergreen, with light green pseudobulbs and foliage, which, together, reach to about ten inches or a foot in height. It produces its flower spikes from the sides of the pseudobulbs after they have completed their growth, which is during August or September. The sepals and petals are delicate rose colour, margined with white; the lip intense crimson-purple, with white crests.

This plant, we repeat, is of easy cultivation and blooms very freely, when grown in a mixture of rough fibrous peat and sphagnum moss, with good drainage. Our experience points to the coolest end of the East India house as the best position in which to grow it; but we have also found it to do well in the Cattleya house. It is necessary to bear in mind that the plant must be shaded from the burning sun, for it has thin leaves which are easily affected by the sun’s rays; all the light possible should however be given. It will do well either in a pot or basket, and should not receive too much moisture at the roots, as Miltonias frequently suffer if too much water is given them. The soil must be kept freely moistened during the growing season, the supply of water being decreased when the season of rest approaches.

Odontoglossum grande.—C. Walker, Esq., Brettargh Holt, Westmoreland, sends us a grand spike of a fine variety of this, the king of Odontoglots. The spike bore six of its enormous flowers, and was much the finest we remember to have seen. Our artist has made a sketch of this spike, and we hope to publish it at some future time—H. W.

PL. 73. VANDA HOOKERIANA.

VANDA HOOKERIANA.
[[Plate 73].]
Native of Borneo.

Epiphytal. Stems elongate, rigid, terete, pale green, producing aërial roots from the joints, resembling in habit and character those of its near ally, Vanda teres. Leaves erect, terete, tapered to a subulate mucronate point, channelled on the upper side, two and a half to three inches long, of a pale green colour. Peduncles from near the top of the stem, opposite, and longer than the leaves, erect, bearing a two to five-flowered raceme (two-flowered in the examples bloomed in this country). Flowers large, two and a half inches in diameter, and extremely beautiful, white, heavily striped and venosely dotted with deep rich magenta; dorsal sepal obovate, cuneate, wavy, projected forwards, white, tinted with rose; the lateral sepals similar in form, but larger, apiculate, white; petals spathulate oblong, obtuse, undulately-crisped, standing right and left above the column and lip, white, spotted with magenta; lip with a pair of large triangular entire auricles standing erect, one on each side the column, of a deep purple colour, mottled with a paler hue, the front portion expanding from a cuneate base into a very broad transverse trifid limb, two inches broad, which is concave, the lower edge being projected forwards, the lateral lobes oblong obtuse, the central one shorter, bluntly ovate, crenate, undulate, white, the disk marked longitudinally with bold rich magenta-purple lines, from which diverge in the direction of the lateral lobes several parallel stripes of a similar colour, the front part of these lobes, as well as the front lobe itself, marked with dots of rich magenta-purple ranged in lines. Spur small, acute, with two blunt calli in front of its mouth. Column hairy below, white, tipped with purple.

Vanda Hookeriana, Reichenbach fil., in Bonplandia, iv., 324; Id. Gardeners’ Chronicle, N.S., xviii., 488. Moore, Florist and Pomologist, 1882, 155.

This lovely plant, which was unanimously awarded a First Class Certificate by the Floral Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society, when shown for the first time in this country in September last, appears to have been originally discovered by Lobb, at Labuan, being represented by No. 347 of his Collection; and from Lobb’s specimen in the Hookerian Herbarium, it was named by Professor Reichenbach, in compliment to Sir William Jackson Hooker, and published amongst other Orchid notes and descriptions in the volume of the Bonplandia issued in 1856; so that, despite some well-merited laudatory remarks, such as “planta admirabilis inexspectatissima,” and “plantam insignem spectabilem,” it has been long in finding its way to our Orchid collections, which it appears to have done in the summer of 1873, according to Reichenbach, who adds, “I believe all went direct to Sir N. de Rothschild, Bart., and the plants one afterwards saw at other places were all presents from Tring Park. Now, after nearly ten years, Mr. Hill, Sir N. de Rothschild’s orchid grower, has succeeded in flowering the plant.” It was also flowered about the same time by Mr. Ebbage, gardener to J. S. Bockett, Esq., Stamford Hill, from whose plant our plate was prepared. Our impression is, though we have not had an opportunity of making the comparison, that Sir N. de Rothschild’s flowers were appreciably larger than those here delineated.

Vanda Hookeriana is a very distinct looking plant, It has terete foliage, resembling that of a slender form of the Vanda teres, but having the tips of the leaves more acute. The flowers are produced on short spikes, which are thrown out from the stem. As far as we have seen, only two flowers have been produced on a single spike, but since as many as five flowers have been counted on the imported spikes, we have no doubt that with judicious attention and cultivation it may produce more. The fact that it does so in the wild state speaks well for its free-flowering qualities. The flowers of this species are white, richly spotted with rosy purple, and the lip is longitudinally and transversely marked with lines of the same colour.

Vanda Hookeriana is a slender tall-growing plant, requiring an abundant supply of moisture during the growing season, after which it should be gradually dried off to predispose it to flower. A raft or block of wood will be found the best contrivance to grow it upon; this can either he plunged in a pot or hung up to the roof of the house, in a position where the plant may obtain plenty of sunlight and air. A little sphagnum moss about the roots will be found beneficial, since it will aid in keeping the young succulent points moist. While growing it should be placed in the East India house, and plenty of water should be given it. After flowering, a slight rest should be allowed, and after that water may again be given as soon as it shows signs of starting into growth.

This plant is subject to the attacks of scale and thrips, which should be disposed of by sponging and fumigation. Propagation is effected by cutting down the plants, care being taken to see that the shoots are furnished with roots. These cut portions should be put in pots, or placed on blocks or rafts, and kept in a shady position until established. After this operation has been performed, the old stem will throw out side shoots, which can again be detached when rooted should more stock be required.

PL. 74. EPIDENDRUM WALLISII.