Grow in sandy peat and
multiply by root division. Flowers in April. Height, 4 in. to 6 in.
Abutilon.--Evergreen greenhouse shrubs of great beauty and easy
cultivation. May be raised from seed, or by cuttings of young shoots
placed in spring or summer in sand under glass, or with a bottom heat.
Cut the old plants back in January, and when new shoots appear re-pot
the plants. Height, 5 ft. to 8 ft.
Acacia.--Winter and spring flowering greenhouse shrubs with charming
flowers and graceful foliage. May be grown from seed, which should be
soaked in warm water for twenty-four hours, or they may be propagated
by layers, cuttings placed in heat, or suckers. They like a rich sandy
loam soil. Height, 2 ft. to 3 ft.
Acaena.--These shrubby plants are herbaceous and mostly hardy, of a
creeping nature, fast growers, and suitable for dry banks or rough
stony places. They flourish best in sandy loam and peat, and may be
increased by cuttings placed under glass. The flowers, which are
green, are produced in May. The height of the various kinds varies
from 3 in. to 2 ft.
Acantholimon Glumaceum _(Prickly Thrift)_.--This is a frame evergreen
perennial, thriving in any light, rich soil. It can be increased by
dividing the roots. In May it puts forth its rose-coloured flowers.
Height, 3 in.
Acanthus.--A coarse, yet stately hardy perennial, which has large
ornamental foliage, and flowers in August. It is not particular as to
soil or situation, but free space should be given it. Will grow from
seed sown from March to midsummer, or in August or September in a
sheltered situation. Will also bear dividing. Height, 3 ft.
Acer (_Maple_).--Very vigorous plants, suitable when young for pots,
and afterwards for the shrubbery. The A. Negundo Variegata has silvery
variegated leaves, which contrast effectively with dark foliage,
Campestre Colchicum Rubrum, with its bright crimson palmate leaves,
is very ornamental, as is also Negundo Californicum Aurem, with its
golden-yellow foliage. The Maple grows best in a sandy loam. It may be
increased by cuttings planted in a shaded situation, or by layers, but
the choice varieties are best raised from seed sown as soon as it is
ripe.
Achillea Ptarmica (_Sneezewort_).--A pure white hardy perennial which
blooms in August. The dried leaves, powdered, produce sneezing.
Any soil. Best increased by rooted off-sets. Flowers from July to
September. Height, 1-1/2 ft.
Achimenes.--Fine plants, suitable for
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