o
draw attention, for with the leaf development there goes on that of the
scape. For a time the foliage has the form of young cos lettuce, but the
under sides are beautifully covered with a meal resembling gold dust.
This feature of the plant is best seen at the early stage of its growth,
as later on the leaves bend or flatten to the ground in rosette form,
the rosettes being often more than 12in. across. The golden farina
varies in both quantity and depth of colour on different plants.

[Illustration: FIG. 76. PRIMULA CASHMERIANUM.

(One-fourth natural size.)]

The flower scape is from 9in. to 12in. high, nearly as stout as a clay
pipe stem, and very mealy, thickening near the top. The flowers, which
are small, of a light purple colour, and having a yellow eye, are
densely arranged in globular trusses, each lasting more than a fortnight
in beauty. The leaves when resting on the ground show their finely
serrated edges and pleasing pale green, which contrasts oddly with the
under sides of those still erect, the latter being not only of a golden
colour, as already mentioned, but their edges are turned, almost rolled
under.

This plant loves moisture; and it will adorn any position where it can
be well grown; it will also endure any amount of sunshine if it has
plenty of moisture at the roots, and almost any kind of soil will do
except clay, but peat and sand are best for it, according to my
experience. During winter the crown is liable to rot, from the amount of
moisture which lodges therein somewhat below the ground level; latterly
I have placed a piece of glass over them, and I do not remember to have
lost one so treated. Offsets are but sparingly produced by this species;
propagation is more easily carried out by seed, from which plants will
sometimes flower the first year.

Flowering period, March to May.

Primula Denticulata.

TOOTHED PRIMULA; _Nat. Ord._ PRIMULACEAE.

This is one of that section of the Primrose family having stout scapes
and compact heads of bloom. It is a comparatively recent introduction
from the Himalayas, a true alpine, and perfectly hardy in this climate.
As a garden flower, it has much merit, blooming early and profusely. It
cannot be too highly commended for its fine form as a plant and beauty
as a flower, more especially as seen on rockwork. The flower buds begin
in very early spring to rise on their straight round stems, new foliage
being developed at the same time.

The