r the
name of _Puschkinia_. This Lilywort came from Siberia in 1819, and was
long considered a tender bulb in this climate, and even yet by many it
is treated as such. With ordinary care--judicious planting--it not only
proves hardy, but increases fast. Still, it is a rare plant, and very
seldom seen, notwithstanding its great beauty. It was named by Adams, in
honour of the Russian botanist, Count Puschkin, whence the two
synonymous names _Puschkinia_ and _Adamsia_; there is also another name,
specific, which, though still used, has become discarded by authorities,
viz., _P. Libanotica_--this was supposed to be in reference to one of
its habitats being on Mount Lebanon. During mild winters it flowers in
March, and so delicately marked are its blossoms that one must always
feel that its beauties are mainly lost from the proverbial harshness of
the season.

At the height of 4in. to 8in. the flowers are produced on slender
bending scapes, the spikes of blossom are arranged one-sided; each
flower is 1/2in. to nearly 1in. across, white, richly striped with pale
blue down the centre, and on both sides of the petal-like divisions. The
latter are of equal length, lance-shaped, and finely reflexed; there is
a short tube, on the mouth of which is joined the smaller one of the
corona. The latter is conspicuous from the reflexed condition of the
limb of the perianth, and also from its lobes and membranous fringe
being a soft lemon-yellow colour. The pedicels are slender and distant,
causing the flower spikes, which are composed of four to eight flowers,
to have a lax appearance. The leaves are few, 4in. to 6in. long,
lance-shaped, concave, but flatter near the apex, of good substance and
a dark green colour; bulb small.

As already stated, a little care is needed in planting this choice
bulbous subject. It enjoys a rich, but light soil. It does not so much
matter whether it is loamy or of a vegetable nature if it is light and
well drained; and, provided it is planted under such conditions and in
full sunshine, it will both bloom well and increase. It may be
propagated by division of the roots during late summer, when the tops
have died off; but only tufts having a crowded appearance should be
disturbed for an increase of stock.

Flowering period, March to May.

_P. s. compacta_ is a variety of the above, having a stronger habit and
bolder flowers. The latter are more numerous, have shorter pedicels, and
are compactly arranged