flowers are not often seen on such dwarf plants, and it also has the
merit of being a "tidy" subject when not in bloom. The illustration
(Fig. 18) will give a fair idea of its main features. Its purple
flowers, which are fully 2in. across, have for many days an even and
well-expanded ray, when the florets curl or reflex; the disk is large,
and numerously set with lemon-yellow florets; the flowers are well
lifted up on stout round stems, covered with short stiff hairs, and
furnished with five or six small leaves; the main foliage is of compact
growth, lance-shaped, entire, spathulate and covered with short hairs.

[Illustration: FIG 18 ASTER ALPINUS.

(One-third natural size.)]

Considering that this plant has been in English gardens for 220 years,
and that its merits must be seen by anyone at a glance, it is hard to
say why it is not better known; even in choice and large collections it
always proves attractive when in flower. The blooms in a cut state are
very durable; they not only hold together, but also keep a good colour.
Under cultivation it is in no way particular; it will endure anything
but being deprived of light; from its dwarf, stout, and shrubby
character, it would form a useful and a handsome edging to the larger
walks; and by growing it so extensively an enviable supply of flowers
for cutting would be at hand.

A stock of young plants may soon be got up by division of strong roots
after the flowering season; such pieces as have roots may be planted at
once in their permanent quarters; the rootless parts should be dibbled
into light sandy loam and shaded with branches for a week or two.

Flowering period, June and July.

_A. a. albus_ is a white-flowered variety, blooming about the same time.
There does not appear to be that vigour about it which characterises the
type; this, however, is not the only shortcoming; when compared with the
rich purple flower, the white one, with its large yellow disk, appears,
to say the least, a questionable improvement.

Aster Ptarmicoides.

BOUQUET STARWORT; _Nat. Ord._ COMPOSITAE.

This Starwort is a very recently-imported species from North America.
Like many other things which have proved worthless as decorative
flowers, this was highly praised, but for a while its weedy-looking
foliage caused suspicion; after becoming well established, it flowered,
and, I am glad to say, proves a most distinct and useful Starwort. Its
small white flowers much resembl