Chapter M: A. S. Salm-Dyck. Monographia generum Aloes et Mesembryanthemi (19)

=B. syringifolia= (Syringa-leaved). _fl._ golden yellow, numerous,
disposed in axillary or terminal racemes. _l._ alternate, simple,
coriaceous. _h._ 30ft. Moreton Bay, 1858.

=BARK STOVE.= A hothouse adapted for moisture-loving exotics, and having a pit from 2ft. to 4ft. deep, containing fermenting matter, chiefly tanners' bark, by which means a steady heat is maintained for a considerable time. The Bark Stove is now almost obsolete. Bark is, however, still largely used in pine pits, and in some propagating beds; but such beds are generally superseded by hot-water or hot-air tanks.

=BARLERIA= (named after J. Barrelier, a French botanist of the seventeenth century). ORD. _Acanthaceæ_. A genus of interesting and ornamental stove evergreen shrubs. Flowers axillary or terminal; calyx four-sepaled, the two outer larger than the others. They thrive best if grown in loam and peat, with a little rotten dung added. Propagated by cuttings made of the young wood, and placed in a similar compost, under a bell glass, in stove temperature, with bottom heat.

=B. flava= (yellow).* _fl._ yellow, aggregate, terminal, tubular;
bracts very narrow, setose. Summer. _l._ lanceolate, hairy, entire.
Plant unarmed. _h._ 3ft. India, 1816. SYN. _B. mitis_. (B. M. 4113.)

=B. Gibsoni= (Gibson's). _fl._ pale purple, rather large,
sub-terminal. Winter. _l._ ovate or oblong-lanceolate. India, 1867.
A glabrous stove shrub, of branched habit. (B. M. 5628.)

=B. Leichtensteiniana= (Leichtenstein's).* _fl._ very curious;
spikes axillary, 2in. to 3in. long, ovoid or oblong, consisting of
a large number of closely packed overlapping bracts, all turned
to the fore or lower part of the spike; bracts ovate-acuminate,
mucronate, spine-toothed, one-ribbed, with prominent and curved
veins, and 1in. to 1-1/2. long. _l._ opposite, 1in. to 2in. long,
linear-lanceolate, entire, mucronate, tapering at the base into a
very short stalk. Branches slender, virgate, sub-angular. South
Africa, 1870. This plant is covered over its whole surface with
close, white, hoary down. (G. C. 1870, p. 73.)

=B. longifolia= (long-leaved). _fl._ white; spines of whorls six.
Summer. _l._ ensiform, very long, rough. _h._ 2ft. India, 1781.
This is a biennial.

=B. lupulina= (Hop-headed). _fl._ yellowish; spikes ovate; bracts
ovate, concave, imbricated. August. _l._ lanceolate, quite entire;
spines simple, spreading. _h._ 2ft. Mauritius, 1824.

=B. Mackenii= (MacKen's).* _fl._ purple, large, in a
terminal raceme. Spring. _l._ recurved, narrow-ovate, or
elliptic-lanceolate, sub-acute, petioled. Natal, 1870. (B. M. 5866.)

=B. mitis= (small). Synonymous with _B. flava_.

=B. prionitis= (Prionitis-like). _fl._ orange; spines axillary,
pedate, in fours. Summer. _l._ quite entire, lanceolate-ovate. _h._
3ft. India, 1759.

=BARLEY.= _See_ =Hordeum vulgare=.

=BARNADESIA= (named after Michael Barnadez, a Spanish botanist). ORD. _Compositæ_. Pretty greenhouse deciduous shrubs, requiring a dry atmosphere. They should be grown in peat, loam, and sand, in equal proportions. Propagated either by seeds, sown in hotbeds in March, or by cuttings, made of half-ripened wood in April, and placed in sand under a bell glass.

=B. rosea= (rosy).* _fl.-heads_ rose-coloured, solitary,
ovate-cylindrical, downy, sessile; florets bilabiate, one lip
oblong-emarginate, villous, the other filiform; hairs on receptacle
twisted; pappus stiff, plumose. May. _l._ alternate, ovate, acute
at both ends. _h._ 1-1/2ft. South America, 1840. See Fig. 206. (B.
M. 4232.)

=BARNARDIA.= Included under =Scilla= (which _see_).

=BAROMETER.= An instrument for measuring the density of the atmosphere, and hence determining the probable changes of weather, or the height of any ascent. To the gardener the Barometer is indispensable as a warning to take due precaution.

=BAROSMA= (from _barys_, heavy, and _osme_, smell; referring to the powerful scent of the leaves). Name often incorrectly spelt _Baryosma_. SYN. _Parapetalifera_. ORD. _Rutaceæ_. Very pretty small, Heath-like, greenhouse evergreen shrubs, from the Cape of Good Hope. Calyx equally five-parted; petals five, oblong; stamens ten. Leaves opposite or scattered, coriaceous, flat, dotted, with their margins sometimes glandularly serrulated, sometimes almost entire or revolute. They thrive in a mixture of sand, peat, and a little turfy loam, with good drainage and firm potting. Cuttings, taken from ripened wood, inserted in a pot of sand, and placed in a shady position in a cool house, with a bell glass over them, will root readily in a few weeks.

=B. betulina= (Birch-leaved). _fl._ white, axillary, solitary.
February to September. _l._ opposite, obovate, serrulate, sessile,
spreading. _h._ 1ft. to 3ft. 1790. (B. M. Pl. 45.)

=B. dioica= (diœcious).* _fl._ purplish; peduncles axillary,
usually in threes, shorter than the leaves. April. _l._ scattered;
upper ones ternate, lanceolate, tapering to both ends, full of
glandular dots, spreading. _h._ 1ft. to 2ft. 1816. (B. R. 502.)

=B. latifolia= (broad-leaved). _fl._ white, usually solitary,
lateral. July. _l._ opposite, ovate-oblong, sessile, serrulated,
smoothish, without glandular dots; branches villous. _h._ 1ft. 1789.

=B. pulchella= (pretty).* _fl._ pale red or purple; peduncles
axillary, usually solitary, exceeding the leaves. February. _l._
crowded, ovate, quite smooth, with thickened, crenate-glandular
margins. _h._ 1ft. to 3ft. 1787.

=B. serratifolia= (saw-edged-leaved).* _fl._ white; peduncles
axillary, sub-divided. March to June. _l._ nearly opposite,
lanceolate, stalked, glandularly serrulated, smooth. _h._ 1ft. to
3ft. 1789. (B. M. 456, and B. Z. 1853, 12.)

=BARRED.= Marked in spaces with a paler colour, resembling bars.

=BARREN FLOWERS.= The male or staminate flowers of many plants, such as the Cucumber, Melon, &c., are popularly known as Barren Flowers, _i.e._, they produce no fruit. This condition is, in some respects, similar to "blind" Strawberries or "blind" Cabbages, so far as fruition is concerned, but structurally and functionally it is widely different. The Barren Flowers of the Cucumber, Melon, &c., are produced by what are known as monœcious plants, _i.e._, having male and female organs in different flowers, but on the same plant. In the Strawberry, &c., Barren Flowers are generally the result of unfavourable surroundings, or unskilful cultivation. A good example of Barren Flowers is seen in the ray-florets of many Composite plants, which are frequently really neuter, having neither male nor female organs.

=BARREN SOILS.= A term signifying such soils as are normally unprofitable. The term can only be correctly applied in very few cases; as almost any soil may be rendered capable of affording a basis for some kind of vegetable life, arboreal or other. The question of planting up the enormous quantity of what is now waste land, might well engage the most practical consideration. Of course, the natural state of any land will, to a great extent, determine what would be its ultimate condition, after all that could be effected by mechanical agency has been accomplished. Drainage, irrigation, enrichment, pulverisation, are all matters which can only be considered upon a particular basis; but we doubt not that the thousands of acres of land now practically almost useless, might, by the adoption of proper means, be rendered fairly remunerative.

=BARREN-WORT.= _See_ =Epimedium=.

=BARRINGTONIA= (named after the Hon. Daines Barrington, F.R.S.). ORD. _Myrtaceæ_. A genus of stove evergreen trees and shrubs, very difficult to cultivate. Flowers large, racemose. Leaves opposite or whorled, generally obovate; margins toothed or entire. Fruit one-seeded, fleshy. They require a compost of two parts loam, one peat, and one sand. Water should be given in abundance, and a moist atmosphere at all times maintained, the temperature ranging from 65deg. to 95deg. Propagated by cuttings obtained from the lateral shoots; these, taken off at a joint when the wood is ripe, planted in sand, with a hand glass over them, root readily. The cuttings should not be stripped of any of their leaves.

=B. racemosa= (raceme-flowered). _fl._ red; racemes pendulous,
very long. _l._ cuneate-oblong, acuminated, serrulated. _h._ 30ft.
Malabar, 1822. (B. M. 3831.)

=B. speciosa= (showy).* _fl._ purple and white, large and handsome,
disposed in an erect thyrse. _l._ shining, cuneate-oblong, obtuse,
quite entire. _h._ 20in. to 30in. in England. This beautiful
species seldom attains a height of more than 6ft. or 8ft. (G. C.
1845, p. 56.)

=BARROW.= Garden Barrows are very numerous, both with and without wheels. The Flower-pot Barrow has a wheel and a flat surface, on which plants, pots, or leaves are placed, either directly, or, when small, in shallow baskets. The Haum Barrow is an open box or case, of wicker or other work, placed on, or suspended from, a pair of handles, with or without a wheel, and is useful for carrying litter, leaves, &c. The Water Barrow, instead of a box, contains a barrel, tub, or cistern, in which fluid manure, or ordinary water, is conveyed to different parts of the garden. The Hand-barrow is a frame of wood, carried by two levers, which form four handles; for removing large pots or tubs of trees or shrubs it is very useful.

=BARTLINGIA.= A synonym of =Plocama= (which _see_).

=BARTONIA= (in honour of Benjamin S. Barton, M.D., formerly Professor of Botany at Philadelphia). ORD. _Loasaceæ_. Hardy annuals or biennials, downy, with stiff and bearded hairs. This genus is now placed under _Mentzelia_ in most standard botanical works. Flowers white or yellow, large, terminal, expanding in the evening, when they are very fragrant, and becoming reddish as they fade. Leaves alternate, interruptedly pinnatifid. The species are very showy, and well worth growing. Any ordinary garden soil suits them. Seeds should be raised in a gentle heat in spring; and, when the seedlings are sufficiently large, they should be potted singly into small, well-drained pots. In winter, they should be placed on a dry shelf in a greenhouse or frame. _B. aurea_ is one of the brightest of hardy annuals, and may be sown either in a frame, or in the open border in April.

=B. albescens= (whitish).* _fl._, petals ten, pale yellow, disposed
in a leafy panicle. July. _l._ sinuately toothed. Stem with a
white shining epidermis. _h._ 1ft. to 4ft. Chili, 1831. Annual or
biennial. (S. B. F. G. ii., 182.)

=B. aurea= (golden).* _fl._ two or three together, terminal, bright
golden yellow, as large as a half-crown; petals five. June. _h._
1ft. California, 1834. Annual. See Fig. 207. (B. M. 3649.)

=B. nuda= (naked) and =B. ornata= (adorned) are two very pretty
white-flowered biennial species. _h._ 2ft. Missouri, 1811.

=BARYOSMA.= _See_ =Barosma=.

=BASAL=, or =BASILAR=. Situated at the base of anything; as the embryo, when situated at the bottom of the seed.

=BASELLA= (its Malabar name). Malabar Nightshade. ORD. _Basellaceæ_. Annual or biennial stove trailers, with white or pinkish flowers, of no great horticultural value. In India, and elsewhere throughout the tropics, some of the species are cultivated as pot herbs, and are used as a substitute for Spinach.

=B. alba= (white).* _fl._ white. August. _l._ heart-shaped,
pointed. _h._ 8in. India, 1688. This plant, either when allowed to
fall in festoons from the roof of a warm house, or treated as a
basket plant, forms an elegant object when in flower.

=BASELLACEÆ.= A series of usually herbaceous climbers, and considered a tribe of _Chenopodiaceæ_.

=BASIL, SWEET= (_Ocymum basilicum_). This is a tender annual from India, and must be raised in gentle heat. The foliage is somewhat largely used for flavouring purposes. Seeds should be sown in April, the seedlings pricked out into boxes to strengthen, and finally planted out about 8in. asunder, in beds of light rich soil, in June, being well watered until fully established. As soon as they bloom, they should be cut down to within a few inches of the ground, and the portions cut off should be tied up in small bunches and dried in the shade for winter use. Some of the plants can be lifted in September, potted up, and placed in a warm greenhouse for the winter, when the fresh green leaves will be found very useful. Bush Basil (_Ocymum minimum_) is a dwarfer plant, but may be treated in the same way. Wild Basil is botanically known as _Calamintha Clinopodium_.

=BASIL-THYME.= _See_ =Calamintha Acinos=.

=BASI-NERVED.= When the nerves of a leaf spring from the base.

=BASING-UP.= The raising of a small bank of earth entirely round a plant, so as to retain water immediately about the root. The term is sometimes used to signify =Earthing= or =Moulding=, which _see_.

=BASKETS.= Few objects contribute more to the adornment of a window, or the decoration of the diningroom, drawing-room, or glass-house, than Hanging Baskets, tastefully filled with handsome foliaged and flowering plants. Baskets are made in different forms and of various materials, such as wire, terra-cotta, wood, and cork. The Wire Baskets have a very light and elegant appearance, and are generally used. In filling Baskets, the inside should be lined with a thick layer of moss, or _Selaginella Kraussiana_, next to which a layer of coarse sacking must be placed, to prevent the soil from working through. Terra-cotta Baskets are very pretty, and are extensively employed in domestic rooms, but they should always have one or more holes at the bottom, to facilitate drainage. Rustic Baskets, of cork or wood, are also very suitable for floral arrangements; those composed of teak-wood are very generally used for orchids. The compost should be prepared according to the requirements of the plant or plants intended to be grown, which can be easily ascertained on reference to such plants in this work. The soil should not be allowed to get dry; in the event of this happening, however, a thorough soaking by immersion must be given. As a rule, attention should be given in the matter of watering every other day, and light syringing every morning and evening during the spring and summer months will be most beneficial. The Baskets should be examined every week, all dead or decaying leaves being removed, and any insects, which are so likely to get a foothold, destroyed. In arranging the subjects, the centre plant should be the tallest, the next outer ones shorter, and the marginal ones of a trailing or drooping habit, so that the whole may present a symmetrical, and at the same time a natural, appearance. Wickerwork Baskets are used for carrying or transferring plants, and are generally made 18in. wide by 20in. deep; they are extremely useful, and should be in every garden. Split wood and withes are largely employed in making Baskets. The Planter's Basket, described by Loudon as a flat, rectangular utensil of wickerwork or boards, partitioned into three or more parts, for the purpose of carrying with the gardener when about to plant or remove plants, is now, unfortunately, almost obsolete. One division is for the plants, another for those taken up, and a third for the tools to be made use of, and for any decayed parts of plants, stones, weeds, or other refuse which may be collected. By using this Basket, order, accuracy, and neatness are secured. The Sussex "Truck" Baskets, made of willow-wood, are very useful, being both light and durable. _See also_ =Measures=.

=BASSIA= (named after Ferdinando Bassi, Curator of the Botanic Garden at Bologna). ORD. _Sapotaceæ_. Handsome lofty-growing lactescent stove trees, with axillary, solitary, or aggregate flowers, and quite entire, smooth, coriaceous leaves. They require stove heat, and a compost of peat and loam. Cuttings, taken from ripened wood, strike readily in sand, under a hand glass, in a strong moist heat.

=B. butyracea= (buttery). The Indian Butter Tree. _fl._, pedicels
aggregate, and are, as well as the calyces, woolly. _l._ obovate,
8in. to 9in. long, and 4in. to 5in. broad, tomentose beneath. _h._
30ft. to 70ft. Nepaul, 1823. (B. F. F. 35.)

=B. latifolia= (broad-leaved). The Mahwah Tree of Bengal. _fl._,
corolla thick and fleshy; pedicels drooping, terminal. _l._ oblong
or elliptic, smooth above, whitish beneath, 4in. to 8in. long, and
2in. to 4in. broad. _h._ 50ft. India, 1799. (B. F. S. 41.)

=B. longifolia= (long-leaved). _fl._, pedicels axillary, drooping,
crowded round the ends of the branchlets. _l._ ovate-lanceolate,
approximate at the tops of the branches, 6in. long, deciduous. _h._
50ft. Malabar, 1811. (B. F. S. 42.)

=BASS= or =BAST MATS=. These are prepared, chiefly in Russia, from the inner bark of various Limes (_Tilia_), and are very largely used in this country by nurserymen for packing purposes. They are also extensively employed as coverings, being excellent preventatives of the effects of frost. They are beneficial as a covering for beds of early vegetables, to prevent radiation during the night. For tying purposes they are now greatly superseded by Raffia Grass. Archangel Mats are larger, and of better quality than the St. Petersburgh. Dunnage Mats are heavy, and generally used for covering, as they are much cheaper.

=BASTARD ACACIA.= _See_ =Robinia Pseudo-acacia=.

=BASTARD BALM.= _See_ =Melittis=.

=BASTARD BOX.= _See_ =Polygala chamæbuxus=.

=BASTARD CABBAGE-TREE.= _See_ =Geoffroya=.

=BASTARD CHERRY.= _See_ =Cerasus Pseudo-cerasus=.

=BASTARD CINNAMON.= _See_ =Cinnamomum Cassia=.

=BASTARD CORK TREE.= _See_ =Quercus pseudo-suber=.

=BASTARD INDIGO.= _See_ =Amorpha=.

=BASTARD LUPINE.= _See_ =Trifolium Lupinaster=.

=BASTARD QUINCE.= _See_ =Pyrus Chamæmespilus=.

=BASTARD VERVAIN.= _See_ =Stachytarpheta=.

=BASTARD VETCH.= _See_ =Phaca=.

=BASTARD WIND-FLOWER.= _See_ =Gentiana Pseudo-pneumonanthe=.

=BASTARD WOOD-SAGE.= _See_ =Teucrium Pseudo-scorodonia=.

=BAST MATS.= _See_ =Bass Mats=.

=BATATAS= (its aboriginal name). ORD. _Convolvulaceæ_. This genus is now referred to _Ipomæa_. Strong, free-growing, greenhouse or stove deciduous twiners. Calyx of five sepals; corolla campanulate; stamens inclosed. They are of easy culture, only requiring plenty of room to spread, and are well adapted for trellis work, or to run up pillars. They are all tuberous rooted, and therefore require to be kept dry when in a dormant state. A rich, open, loamy soil is most suitable. Young cuttings strike readily under a hand glass, in heat.

=B. bignonioides= (Bignonia-like).* _fl._, corolla dark purple,
funnel-shaped, with a curled limb; peduncles many-flowered, nutant,
shorter than the petioles. July. _l._ three-lobed; hind lobes
rounded, imbricate. Cayenne, 1824. (B. M. 2645.)

=B. Cavanillesii= (Cavanilles').* _fl._ pale whitish-red; lobes
of corolla obtuse, crenulated; peduncles one to three-flowered.
August. _l._ quinate; leaflets ovate, entire, unequal. Native
country unknown, 1815.

=B. edulis= (edible).* Sweet Potato. _fl._, corolla 1in. long,
white outside and purple inside; peduncles equal in length to the
petioles, or exceeding them, three to four-flowered. _l._ variable,
usually angular, also lobed. Stem creeping, rarely climbing. East
Indies, 1797. See Fig. 208.

=B. glaucifolia= (milky-green-leaved). _fl._, corolla small,
purplish, with an inflated tube, and ovate, acute segments;
peduncles two-flowered, length of leaves. May. _l._ sagittate,
truncate behind, on long petioles. Mexico, 1732.

=B. heterophylla= (various-leaved). _fl._ blue; peduncles solitary,
axillary, bearing each three sessile flowers. July. _l._ quinately
palmate; lobes or leaflets ovate-spathulate, acute. Plant very
villous. Cuba, 1817.

=B. paniculata= (panicled).* _fl._ large, purple; peduncles
much exceeding the petioles, many-flowered, dichotomously and
corymbosely panicled. June _l._ palmate, five to seven-cleft;
lobes ovate-lanceolate or elliptic, bluntish, rarely
sub-acuminated. India, 1799. (G. C. n. s., x., 341.)

=B. senegalensis= (Senegalese). _fl._ white or purplish, large;
peduncles three-flowered. June. _l._ quinately palmate; lobes
ovate, obtuse, middle one the largest. Stem white, tubercular.
Guinea, 1823.

=B. venosa= (veiny). _fl._ purple; peduncles umbellate, with an
ovate-cordate, solitary leaf at the base of each pedicel. July.
_l._ digitately quinate; leaflets petiolate, acuminated, quite
entire. France, 1820.

=BATEMANNIA= (named after Mr. J. Bateman, a collector and cultivator of orchids, and author of a "Monograph of Odontoglossum," and other works on orchidaceous plants). ORD. _Orchidaceæ_. A small and easily-grown genus of dwarf, compact-growing epiphytes, closely allied to _Maxillaria_, but differing from that genus in having the anther-bed with a membranous border. They may be grown in pots, in a compost of peat and moss, or on blocks of wood with moss. They require an intermediate house and plenty of water in the growing season. Propagated by divisions and offsets. They have generally a free-flowering habit; but some of the species are not so ornamental as many other orchids.

=B. armillata= (braceleted). _fl._ green, white. 1875. (R. X. O.
316.)

=B. Burtii= (Burt's). _fl._ red-brown, yellow base, 3in. across;
lip white, tipped chocolate. Autumn. _l._ elliptic-oblong, or
ligulate, sub-distichous. Plant bulbless. Costa Rica, 1872. (B. M.
6003.)

=B. Colleyi= (Colley's). _fl._ on a pendulous raceme, rising from
the base of the pseudo-bulbs; sepals and petals brownish-purple
within, green without; lip white. Autumn. _h._ 6in. Demerara, 1834.
(B. R. 1714.)

=B. grandiflora= (large-flowered).* _fl._, flower-spike coming
up with the young growth, bearing three or four flowers, of
curious structure; sepals and petals olive-green, striped with
reddish-brown; lip white, with reddish-purple streaks, orange or
yellow towards the base. Pseudo-bulbs ovate, 3in. or 4in. long, and
bearing two large, broad, leathery leaves. New Grenada, 1866. (B.
M. 5567.)

=B. Wallisii= (Wallis').* _fl._, sepals light greenish-yellow
outside, olive-green to chestnut-brown inside, with some yellow
at the base; petals with scarlet stripes at the very base, but
otherwise coloured like the sepals; lip blade greenish, with a
brownish hue at the anterior part; peduncles slender, corymbose.
_h._ 1ft. Columbia, 1876.

=BATSCHIA.= _See_ =Lithospermum=.

=BAUERA= (named after Francis and Ferdinand Bauer, German botanical draughtsmen). ORD. _Saxifragaceæ_. Small shrubs, natives of Australia, New Zealand, &c. Flowers axillary, solitary, pedunculate. Leaves six in a whorl, approximating by threes, and therefore, as it were, opposite and ternate, exstipulate. Easily cultivated in a compost of sandy loam and peat. Propagated by cuttings, placed in sandy soil, under a glass. These very pretty little greenhouse evergreens flower nearly the whole year through.

=B. humilis= (low). _fl._, corolla red, one-half smaller than _B.
rubioides_, and the plant is altogether much smaller. July to
December. _l._ oblong, crenated. _h._ 1ft. New South Wales, 1804.
(L. B. C. 1197.)

=B. rubiæfolia= (madder-leaved). Synonymous with _B. rubioides_.

=B. rubioides= (madder-like).* _fl._ pale red, or pink. _l._
lanceolate, crenated. _h._ 1ft. to 2ft. New South Wales, 1793. SYN.
_B. rubiæfolia_. (A. B. R. 198.)

=BAUHINIA= (in honour of John and Caspar Bauhin, two famous botanists of the sixteenth century). Mountain Ebony. ORD. _Leguminosæ_. Very showy stove evergreen shrubs. Flowers racemose; petals five, spreading, oblong, rather unequal, upper one usually distant from the rest. Leaves two-lobed, constantly composed of two jointed leaflets at the top of the petiole, sometimes nearly free, but usually joined together, more or less, and with an awn in the recess. They succeed well in a mixture of sand, loam, and peat, requiring good drainage and moderately firm potting. Propagated by cuttings, which should be taken when the wood is neither very ripe nor very young; the leaves must be dressed off, and the cuttings planted in sand, under a glass, in moist heat. Although glorious objects in the tropics, few of the species flower under our comparatively sunless skies; those which hitherto have succeeded well in Britain are marked with an asterisk.

=B. acuminata= (taper-pointed-leaved). _fl._ pure white; petals
broadly ovate, hardly stipitate. June. _l._ rather cordate at the
base, smoothish; leaflets connected beyond the middle, ovate,
acuminated, parallel, four-nerved. _h._ 5ft. to 6ft. Malabar, 1808.

=B. aurita= (eared). _fl._ white; petals ovate, on short stipes.
August. _l._ glabrous, cordate at the base; leaflets connected the
fourth part of their length, oblong-lanceolate, nearly parallel,
six to eight-nerved. _h._ 4ft. to 6ft. Jamaica, 1756.

=B. corymbosa= (corymbose).* _fl._ in loose racemes; petals
pinkish, regular, crenulated at the edge. Summer. _l._, leaflets
semi-oval, obtuse, parallel, connected nearly to the middle,
three-nerved, cordate at the base, the nerves on the under surface,
as well as the petioles, branches, and calyces, clothed with rufous
villi. Shrubby climber. India, 1818. (G. C. 1881, xvi., p. 204.)

=B. inermis= (unarmed). _fl._ white; petals linear; racemes
terminal, leafless, simple. _l._ ovate at the base, ferruginous
beneath; leaflets oblong, acute, four-nerved, parallel, connected
a little beyond the middle. _h._ 6ft. to 8ft. Mexico, 1810.

=B. multinerva= (many-nerved). _fl._ snow-white; petals linear.
Legume 8in. to 12in. long. _l._ elliptic, rounded at the base,
membranous, shining above, rather pilose beneath; nerves
ferruginous; leaflets semi-ovate, obtuse, approximate, five-nerved;
free. _h._ 20ft. Caracas, 1817.

=B. natalensis= (Natal).* _fl._ white, 1-1/2in. across,
opposite the leaves. September. _l._ small, alternate, of two
obliquely-oblong rounded leaflets. Natal, 1870. (B. M. 6086.)

=B. petiolata= (long-petioled). _fl._ white, 3in. long, in terminal
clusters. Autumn. _l._ stalked, ovate-acuminate, five-nerved,
glabrous. Columbia, 1852. SYN. _Casparia speciosa_. (B. M. 6277.)

=B. pubescens= (downy). _fl._ white, large, much crowded; petals
obovate; peduncles three to four-flowered. _l._ rather cordate at
the base, pubescent beneath and on the petioles; leaflets connected
beyond the middle, oval, obtuse, four-nerved, nearly parallel. _h._
4ft. to 6ft. Jamaica, 1823.

=B. purpurea= (purple). _fl._, petals red, one of them streaked
with white on the claw, lanceolate, acute. Legume linear, 1ft.
long. _l._ cordate at the base, coriaceous, ultimately glabrous;
leaflets connected much above the middle, broadly ovate, obtuse,
four-nerved; free. _h._ 6ft. India, 1778.

=B. racemosa= (racemose). _fl._ white; petals obovate, obtuse;
raceme somewhat corymbose. _l._ cordate at the base, clothed
with silky villi beneath, as well as on the peduncles, petioles,
branches, calyces, and petals; leaflets broadly ovate, obtuse,
connected to the middle, five-nerved. India, 1790. Shrubby climber.
(B. F. S. 182.)

=B. tomentosa= (tomentose). _fl._, petals pale yellow, with a red
spot at the claw, obovate, obtuse; peduncles one to three-flowered.
_l._ ovate or roundish at the base; under surface villous, as
well as the petioles, branches, stipules, peduncles, bracts, and
calyces; leaflets connected beyond the middle, oval, obtuse, three
to four-nerved. _h._ 6ft. to 12ft. Ceylon, 1808.

=B. variegata= (variegated).* _fl._ red, marked with white, and
yellow at the base, in loose terminal racemes; petals ovate,
nearly sessile. June. _l._ cordate at the base, glabrous; leaflets
broadly-ovate, obtuse, five-nerved, connected beyond the middle;
free. _h._ 20ft. Malabar, 1690.

=B. v. chinensis= (Chinese). _fl._, petals lilac, with one purple
spot at the base of each, acute. _l._ rounded at the base. China.

=BAWD-MONEY.= _See_ =Meum=.

=BAY-TREE.= _See_ =Laurus nobilis=.

=BEAK.= Anything resembling the beak of a bird, as in _Aconitum_; the point which ends the helmet or upper sepal; hard, sharp points.

=BEAM TREE.= _See_ =Pyrus Aria=.

=BEAN BEETLE= (_Bruchus granarius_). This insect, by depositing its eggs in the seeds of Beans and Peas, causes a great amount of injury. It is about an eighth of an inch long, black, with brown hairs and white spots; tip of the tail prolonged, downy; front pair of legs reddish. The most effectual means of prevention is to destroy, when sowing, all seeds infested by it; and this may be detected by the skin of the seed being unusually transparent above the tunnel for exit. Imported seeds of Broad Beans are often much infested. "Dipping the Beans or Peas in boiling water for one minute is stated to kill the grub inside; but, as dipping for four minutes generally destroys the germinating power, the experiment is much too hazardous for general use", (Ormerod).

=BEAN CAPER.= _See_ =Zygophyllum=.

=BEAN FLY.= _See_ =Aphides= and =Black Fly=.

=BEANS.= There are three sections of these in cultivation for garden purposes, viz.: The Dwarf or French Bean; the Climbing, or Scarlet Runner; and the ordinary Broad Bean. _See also_ =Faba= and =Phaseolus=.

_Soil._ All Beans like a somewhat loamy soil, which, to secure good crops, must be deeply worked and heavily manured. The Kidney Beans, dwarf and tall, however, do not care for so heavy a soil as the Broad and Long-podded kinds; and this fact should be borne in mind when selecting their respective situations. The term Kidney is generally applied to both the Dwarf or French and the Climbing or Scarlet Runner.

BROAD AND LONG-PODDED (_Faba vulgaris_). _Cultivation_: As early as possible in the autumn, deeply trench a piece of ground, and work in a heavy dressing of manure, leaving the surface of the soil in ridges, to become well aërated by winter frosts. Where desired, a piece of ground on a warm, protected border, can also be deeply dug in November, and a few rows of Mazagans sown to stand the winter. When up, draw a ridge of soil on either side the rows, and in frosty weather strew a few handfuls of bracken, or other light, dry litter, over them. Not much is, however, gained by this winter sowing. Early in January, level the ridges with a fork, working the whole of the surface soil over, and towards the end of the month, make the first sowing, choosing Mazagan and other early varieties. Mark out two rows, 9in. asunder, leave a space of 30in., then another two rows, and so on throughout the piece sown. If preferred, they may be sown in single rows at intervals of 1-1/2ft. The drills should be about 3in. deep, and the seed from 7in. to 9in. apart in the rows. Where the double-row system is adopted, arrange the seed for the plants to come alternately. In March, get in the main sowing of the Broad and later Long-podded kinds, in the manner already described; another sowing for late use may be made in April. When the plants are about 6in. high, earth up as recommended for those sown in the autumn. As soon as a good crop is set, pinch out the tops of the plants, to assist the maturation of the Beans, and prevent the attacks of the fly. Figs. 209, 210, and 211 are excellent representations of the flowering plant, pods, and seed of the Broad Bean.

_Sorts._ For early use: Early Mazagan, Long-pod, Marshall's Early Prolific, and Seville Long-pod. For late use: Carter's Mammoth Long-pod, and Broad Windsor (white variety). These are all distinct and good varieties.

DWARF OR FRENCH KIDNEY BEANS (_Phaseolus vulgaris_). _Cultivation_: This class (see Fig. 212) also requires a rich and deeply trenched rather light soil. A very important point is to get the ground into a good condition, by frequently forking it over; and, as the seeds are not sown till the beginning of May, there is plenty of time for the work. The finer the soil is, and the more it is aërated, the better will it suit the crop. From the beginning of May till the end of June, at intervals, draw out drills about 2ft. apart, and 3in. deep, and in these place the Beans tolerably thick, as generally they are not all certain to grow. As soon as up, carefully thin them, and slightly earth up to prevent the wind blowing them about. They should not, however, be earthed higher than the seed leaves, or they will probably rot off in wet weather. Keep free from weeds, and maintain a sharp look out for slugs. In dry weather, water occasionally, giving good drenchings, and not mere sprinklings, which do more harm than good. A good mulching of half-rotted manure is very beneficial, as it prevents evaporation to a great extent, besides affording some amount of nourishment to the plants. Great care must be taken to pick off the Beans as soon as large enough for use, or they will exhaust the plants. Where seeds are needed, a number of plants should be left for the purpose, and these should be some of the best, to prevent deterioration, or loss of the true variety.

_Forcing._ French Beans require more heat than can be obtained in either a frame or an ordinary greenhouse; and, although easy enough to grow in a structure suited to their requirements, yet, if such does not exist, they are almost sure to fail. A good heat, from 60deg. to 70deg., with abundance of moisture, is necessary for successful results. Plenty of light is also most essential. A position such as that of a cucumber house is generally a suitable one; but the plants must not be placed under the cucumbers. Successional sowings in pots or boxes must be made, from the end of August till March, to keep up a supply. For soil, use good maiden loam, with a little well-rotted manure added. Use 8in. pots, sowing five or six beans in each. The first sowing should be placed in a frame and kept well watered, bringing into heat in October; but the subsequent sowings should be placed directly in the house. Keep the soil moist, and the plants free from aphides and other insect pests, and give air at every favourable opportunity. The plants should be as near the light as possible, and kept from falling about by tying or placing small pieces of Birch wood round them. In dull weather, it will be found that the blooms will not set so freely as when the sun shines brightly; therefore, every care should be taken to secure both heat and ventilation when sunshine prevails. When the pots get full of roots, and the plants are bearing fruit freely, a little liquid manure is of great assistance; at no time must the plants get dry enough to flag. Allow plenty of room for the full development of foliage, and maintain a minimum temperature of 60deg., with plenty of moisture.

_Sorts._ These are very numerous, among the best being Black Negro, Canadian Wonder, Canterbury, Fulmer's Forcing, Golden Dun, Newington Wonder, Osborn's Early Forcing, Sion House, and Sir Joseph Paxton.

RUNNERS OR CLIMBING KIDNEY BEANS (_Phaseolus multiflorus_). _Cultivation_: Being tall growers, these need a greater space than the Dwarf French varieties, and they also require support. Rich soil is indispensable for them, and liberal supplies of water on light soils and in dry weather. A good overhead syringing from time to time is also advantageous. Trench and heavily manure a piece of ground in autumn, leaving it in ridges for the winter. In March, level the ridges down, and well work the ground, to render it friable and in good condition. The plants being extremely tender, it is not safe to sow before the end of April or the first week in May. It is preferable to sow in rows, which should be from 6ft. to 12ft. apart, and crop the ground between with other vegetables. Earth up and stake them as soon as ready, to prevent injury from rough wind. A good plan, which may be adopted to obtain early produce, is to raise the seeds in boxes in a cold frame, getting them ready for planting out in the middle of May. Plant at the same distances, and treat afterwards as recommended for those sown out of doors.

If preferred, they can be grown on the ground without stakes. Under this treatment, they must have their tops pinched off when about 18in. high, continuing this pinching from time to time as necessary. If this plan is adopted, the rows need only be 3ft. apart, the ground not being otherwise cropped. In dry seasons and on light soils, there is an advantage attached to this method, namely, that those on sticks are liable to injury from drought, while the foliage of those pinched back keeps the soil moist underneath.

Runner Beans may also be planted to cover arches or fences, and in various places of a like description. See Fig. 213.

_Sorts._ Common Scarlet Runner, Champion, Painted Lady, and Giant White. The first two are those generally grown.

=BEAN-TREE.= _See_ =Ceratonia Siliqua=.

=BEARBERRY=, and =BEAR'S GRAPE=. _See_ =Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi=.

=BEARD-TONGUE.= _See_ =Pentstemon=.

=BEARS BREECH.= _See_ =Acanthus=.

=BEAR'S FOOT.= _See_ =Helleborus fœtidus=.

=BEATONIA.= _See_ =Tigridia=.

=BEAUCARNEA= (a commemorative name). ORD. _Liliaceæ_. A small genus of curious greenhouse plants, natives of Mexico. Leaves narrow, gracefully depending. Stems slender, and woody, with a peculiar swollen, somewhat napiform base. Mr. B. S. Williams recommends that these plants be potted in rich fibrous loam and sand, with ample drainage, and, during the growing season, liberally supplied with water. Propagated by cuttings, when obtainable; but chiefly by seeds, which have to be imported from their native country. Beaucarneas are principally grown for the beauty of their foliage, and are grotesque, graceful, and extremely curious in habit and form.

=B. glauca= (grey).* _l._ pendent, glaucous, 2ft. to 3ft. long.
Stem slender, the swollen base becoming woody with age.

=B. g. latifolia= (broad-leaved) differs from the type only in its
stouter and more robust stem and broader leaves.

=B. longifolia= (long-leaved).* _l._ 6ft. to 10ft. long, narrow,
pendent, dark green, forming a beautiful vase-like centre. _h._
10ft. Mexico, 1868. Very distinct. (G. C. 1877, vii., 493.)

=B. recurvata= (recurved-leaved).* _l._ very long, linear,
gracefully pendulous, bright green. Mexico, about 1845. This is an
excellent subject for open-air culture during the summer, as well
as for the conservatory. SYN. _Pincenictitia tuberculata_. (G. C.
1870, 1445.)

=B. r. rubra= (red). _l._ red at base.

=B. stricta= (upright). _l._ 3ft. or more long, less than 1in.
broad, very glaucous. Stem stout. Mexico, 1870.

=BEAUFORTIA= (commemorative of Mary, Duchess of Beaufort, a botanical patroness). Including _Schizopleura_. ORD. _Myrtaceæ_. Elegant free-flowering greenhouse Australian shrubs. Flowers scarlet; calyx with a turbinate tube; stamens in bundles opposite the petals. Leaves sessile, opposite or scattered. Beaufortias require a compost of peat, leaf soil, and loam, lightened, if necessary, by the addition of sand. Cuttings of half-ripened shoots root freely in sandy soil, under a glass, with very little heat.

=B. decussata= (decussate). _fl._ scarlet; bundles of stamens
on very long claws; filaments radiating. May. _l._ opposite,
decussate, ovate, or oval, many-nerved. _h._ 3ft. to 10ft. New
Holland, 1803. (B. M. 1733.)

=B. purpurea= (purple).* _fl._ purplish-red, in dense globular
heads. _l._ three to five-nerved, erect or spreading,
ovate-lanceolate to lanceolate-linear. New Holland.

=B. sparsa= (few-leaved). _fl._ bright scarlet. _l._ many-nerved,
scattered, ovate-elliptical, obtuse. West Australia. SYN. _B.
splendens_. (P. F. G. xiii., 145.)

=B. splendens= (splendid). Synonymous with _B. sparsa_.

=BEAUMONTIA= (in honour of Mrs. Beaumont, formerly of Bretton Hall, Yorkshire). ORD. _Apocynaceæ_. A very ornamental stove twiner, remarkable for its handsome flowers. It succeeds best when planted out in the borders of a temperate house, in rich lumpy loam and peat. Propagated by cuttings, placed in sand, with bottom heat.

=B. grandiflora= (large-flowered).* _fl._, corolla large, white,
greenish outside near the base, and dark throat, with a short tube,
and a large campanulate five-lobed limb; corymbs axillary and
terminal, many-flowered. June. _l._ opposite, broad, oblong-ovate,
with a little point, tapering towards the base, smooth and shining
above, but rather downy beneath; young leaves and branches rusty.
Chittagong and Sylhet, 1820. (B. M. 3213.)

=BED.= A term usually applied to pieces of ground laid out in gardens for sowing small seeds, or for the isolation and better protection of small collections of plants in the reserve ground. The oblong is the best shape for this purpose, about 4ft. or 5ft. wide, somewhat raised, and having a narrow path on each side, so that the workman may attend to the plants or seeds without having to tread on the bed. Any one part of a flower-garden design, cut out in grass, or otherwise formed, is also generally termed a Bed. When required to be planted for effect, as in this case, the Bed should be proportionate in size to the plants that are to be put in it, always planting the highest in the centre and gradually sloping, with other sizes, to the edges, which should be the lowest. Circular Beds are best with one centre plant; and oblong or other shapes should have the height of the centre plants carried nearly the whole length, not, however, placing them in too formal a manner.

=BEDDING-IN.= A method of seed-sowing, now almost obsolete, and chiefly employed in nurseries. "In this method, the ground being dug and formed by alleys into Beds, 4ft. or 5ft. wide, each alley being a spade's width or more between Bed and Bed, and the earth being drawn off the top of the Bed with a rake or spade, 1/2in. or 1in. deep into the alleys, the seed is then sown all over the surface of the Bed; which being done, the earth in the alleys is immediately cast over the Bed, again covering the seeds the same depth, and the surface is raked smooth" (Johnson). In the case of small seeds, a very light covering is needed, and that only of very fine soil.

=BEDDING-OUT.= The temporary placing out of doors of greenhouse and other tender plants during the summer months. It is considered by some to be the showiest, most expensive, and most unnatural of any style. The geometrical arrangement of gaudy colours is not at all times satisfactory, and under the most favourable conditions the design is rarely retained more than two or three months, say, from July to September. The method is, however, so extensively adopted as to demand due notice in this work. Bedding usually commences in May. An important consideration is the proper preparation of the soil for the reception of the plants. It will be found to materially assist the growth if the soil is well dug over a fortnight before the plants are put in. By this means, it will acquire a certain amount of solidity, a point of great importance with fibrous-rooted plants that are subject to injury from the fine roots not taking a firm hold of the soil. Having decided upon the arrangement of the plants, proceed to work with the planting. With round, oval, or, indeed, almost any shaped bed, begin in the centre and work towards the edge; in borders, commence at the back and finish with the front row. Plant with a trowel, disturbing the balls as little as possible, and when in the holes press the soil moderately firm. After the Bed is finished, give a good soaking of water to settle the soil at the roots. Manure for Flower-beds should always be perfectly rotten, such as that from a spent hotbed. When the plants are thoroughly established, water must only be given if they show signs of distress; and then a good soaking should be applied. A careful hoeing of the surface after planting will be most beneficial, leaving it smooth and tidy. A Dutch hoe will be the best to use. Injudicious use of manure and water will only cause a foliaceous growth. The proper treatment of the various Bedding Plants will be found under their respective headings. For spring decoration, the Beds may be filled with Dutch bulbs, and spring-flowering annuals and perennials _ad infinitum_; or, after the plants are removed in autumn, the Beds may be filled with evergreens plunged in pots, such as Aucuba, Arbor vitæ, Euonymus, and various little Conifers, which have a bright appearance through the winter, and can be removed at any time. With the relative value, or advisability of adoption, of either or any system of gardening, it scarcely comes within the province of this work to deal. No hard-and-fast rules can be laid down as regards "style," and each individual may follow his own taste and inclination.

_Carpet Bedding._ This mode of gardening, although not so generally employed as it was some few years ago, has many admirers, and small plots, geometrically arranged in multi-coloured beds on lawns, are frequently seen. In our large public parks, the system is largely adopted, and evidently proves very gratifying to the multitudes who visit these places; but probably no system is more unnatural or expensive, as such a large number of plants are necessary in order to produce a desirable effect. The illustrations (Figs. 214 and 215) represent two designs for Carpet Beds. The numbers placed in the various compartments indicate the way the different colours should be arranged, repeats being marked by the same cypher. A very varied and large selection of plants can be used for Carpet Bedding, some of which are quite hardy, such as _Herniaria glabra_ and _Veronica repens_, two of the best dwarf green plants; _Sempervivum californicum_, _Sedum lydium_, _S. glaucum_, _Antennaria tomentosa_, &c. These may be planted early in the season, with Golden Feather, and are especially valuable, as they are generally employed to a great extent. Other plants, not quite so hardy, are _Mentha Pulegium gibraltarica_ and _Echeveria secunda glauca_, both of which are extensively used; while the tenderest subjects are Alternantheras of various kinds, _Coleus Verschaffeltii_ and _Mesembryanthemum cordifolium variegatum_. These latter should not be planted till the first or second week in June. As the plants are usually small, and require to be planted thickly, the work is best accomplished with the fingers, pressing the soil moderately firm. First of all, work out the design, and plant the leading lines; afterwards fill in the "panels."

_Sub-Tropical Bedding._ This term is applied to the arrangement of tropical plants in Beds or groups outside for the summer months, and if discriminately adopted a very attractive and unique display may be made, depending greatly upon position, and mainly upon the material at command. If a sheltered and partially shady situation is enjoyed, a grand effect may be produced by the grouping of tree and other large ferns with palms, Cannas, Aralias, Dracænas, &c., avoiding, of course, formal arrangement, and yet, when finished, a symmetrical appearance should be produced. In more open positions, palms, Castor Oil Plants, Cannas, _Humea elegans_, Aralias, Phormiums, Wigandias, Nicotianas, &c., may be employed, the result being, if properly arranged, most gratifying. Sub-Tropical Bedding should not be done till the middle or end of June, and the Beds should be well dug and freely manured for those that are to be planted out.

Fig. 216 represents a Border or long piece of ground, which may be either marked out permanently with Box edging, dwarf-growing silver or golden leaved plants, tiles, stones, or pebbles, and filled in with silver sand or bright-coloured stones or gravel; or the lines may be widened out into walks. The whole of the small circles not numbered are intended for specimen foliage and other plants, such as Fuchsias, Yuccas, Aloes, Cannas, Solanums, variegated or plain Reeds, Grasses, Maize (_Zea_), &c. No. 1, tall plants of _Echeveria metallica_, edged with _E. glauca_; 2, 2, yellow or orange Calceolaria; 3, 3, Mrs. Leavers Pelargonium; 4, 4, Triomphe de Stella ditto; 5, 5, purple or blue Verbena; 6, 6, white ditto. The narrow border round the side may then be filled in with Golden-feather Pyrethrum, blue Lobelia, or _Alternanthera amabilis_. This same plan may also be treated in quite a different manner, according to the taste of those adopting it, or the stock of plants at command.

Fig. 217 illustrates a design admirably adapted for a rosery or small flower garden. Its only fault is the number of sharp angles at the corners of some of the Beds; but this can be counteracted by the predominance of curved lines. It is easily formed, and the effect is good if furnished in the following manner: The circle in the centre, 1, _Centaurea ragusina compacta_, edged with a double line of _Coleus Verschaffeltii_; the four figures 2, 2, 2, 2, scarlet Pelargoniums, such as Vesuvius, Bonfire, Triomphe de Stella, or others; 3, 3, Mrs. Pollock, golden-zoned Pelargoniums, edged with _Alternanthera amœna_; 4, 4, Lady Cullum, ditto, ditto, edged with ditto; 5, 5, _Lobelia speciosa_, Imperial Dwarf Ageratum, or Purple King Verbena; 6, 6, white Verbena or white Ivy-leaved Pelargonium.

The group of Beds illustrated in Fig. 218 is effective on grass or gravel. If on the latter, the lines should be defined with Box, Golden Thyme, Cerastium, or Santolinas. The design is pretty on level, but is still more effective on sloping ground; in the latter case, it should rise from the straight walk (dotted line). Thus each Bed may be seen to the best advantage, and the group may be extended to any length. The circular Beds should be planted with two distinct colours, such as good pink and scarlet Pelargoniums of similar habits of growth, placing the colours in alternate Beds. The Beds, _a_, _a_, _a_, Flower of Spring, or another silver-leaved Pelargonium; _b_, _b_, _b_, Purple King Verbena, or Imperial Dwarf Ageratum; _c_, _c_, White Perfection Verbena, and silver-leaved or white-flowered Ivy-leaved Pelargonium; _d_, _d_, _Alternanthera magnifica_; _e_, _e_, Blue Lobelia. The long border, _Alternanthera paronychioides_, edged with _Antennaria tomentosa_; or _Iresine Lindenii_, edged with Pyrethrum, Golden Fleece or Crystal Palace Gem Pelargonium. The two sides may also be planted alike. The colours are reversed above to produce a greater variety and a more striking effect. This design is also well adapted for Carpet Bedding.

BED B.

BED C.

BED D.

BED E.

BED F.

BED G.

BED H.

FIG. 221. BEDDING-OUT DESIGNS.]

_Nursery Bed._ This is merely a reserve ground or nursery for a large stock of plants of various sorts, such as Roses, &c. One of the first requirements is an easy access to the individual plants, and with the least possible waste of space. This may be obtained by arranging the Beds in regular geometric figures, as shown in Figs. 219 and 220, and, by exercising a little care and taste, the whole can be so contrived as to present an ornamental appearance.

We are indebted to Messrs. Cannell and Sons for the diagrams of Bedding-out designs shown at Fig. 221, which may be made very effective:

Bed A. This Bed may be planted with the following: Summer-flowering: 1, Gain's Yellow Calceolaria or Ageratum Lady Jane; 2, Geranium Vesuvius or another scarlet; 3 and 4, Viola Blue-bell or Purple King Verbena; 5, edged with _Gnaphalium lanatum_, or _Antennaria tomentosa_, white foliaged plants. Summer Foliage: 1, _Coleus Verschaffeltii_; 2, _Centaurea ragusina compacta_; 3 and 4, Mrs. Pollock Geranium; 5, band of any of the Echeverias, or _Kleinia repens_.

Bed B. Plants mentioned for A will do for this.

Bed C. This is really intended for a Carpet Bed. 1, _Alternanthera amabilis_, with a narrow line of _amœna_ for the edge; 2, _Mentha_, or _Herniaria glabra_; 3, band of _Mesembryanthemum cordifolium variegatum_. Flowering: 1, Any kind of Scarlet Geranium; 2, Golden-leaved ditto; 3, Blue Lobelia (edge). Spring: 1, White Arabis; 2, _Myosotis dissitiflora_; 3, Golden Feather.

Bed D. Summer: 1, Pink Geranium; 2, _Iresine Lindenii_; 3, Golden Feather. Carpet: 1, _Alternanthera versicolor grandis_; 2, _Mesembryanthemum cordifolium variegatum_; 3, _Alternanthera magnifica_, edged with _Sempervivum montanum_.

Bed E. 1, Scarlet Geranium; 2, Pink ditto; 3, _Lobelia speciosa_; or, 1, _Alternanthera amœna_; 2, _Mesembryanthemum cordifolium variegatum_; 3, _Echeveria secunda glauca_.

Bed F. 1, _Dracæna_, _Chamæpeuce_, or any other graceful foliage plant for the centre; 2 and 4, _Alternanthera amabilis_, the divided lines, 6, being filled with Mentha or Echeverias; 3 and 5, _Alternanthera amœna_; and the outer edge, 7, with _Sempervivum californicum_. This bed would look well if planted with any of the above-mentioned spring flowers. Spring: Bed might be raised to a mound, and lined out with hardy Sedums, or Sempervivums, placing a larger growing one in the centre; and 2, 3, 4, and 5 divisions may be filled with any spring-flowering dwarf-growing plants.

Bed G. 1, Small plant of Yucca; 2, _Coleus Verschaffeltii_; 3, _Alyssum variegatum_; 4, _Lobelia pumila magnifica_.

Bed H. 1, Golden Feather; Mesembryanthemum; 3, Mentha; 4, _Alternanthera amabilis_; or 1, _Coleus Verschaffeltii_; 2, _Centaurea ragusina_; 3, Calceolaria Golden Gem; 4, Ageratum Lady Jane.

=BEDDING PLANTS.= This term applies to many half-hardy subjects which are planted out in beds for summer display, such as Ageratums, Calceolarias, Geraniums, Heliotropes, Lobelias, Verbenas, &c., all of which will be treated under their respective headings. They are mostly soft-wooded plants and are easily cultivated with proper means, in spring and autumn.

=BEDFORDIA= (named in honour of a former Duke of Bedford). ORD. _Compositæ_. Greenhouse evergreen shrubs, allied to _Cacalia_. They thrive in a mixture of sand, peat, loam, and brick rubbish, in equal proportions. Propagated by cuttings, which should be dried a little before inserting them in rough, sandy soil.

=B. salicina= (willow-like). _fl.-heads_ yellow, axillary and
solitary, or few together. April. _l._ alternate, lanceolate,
linear, glossy above, covered with white tomentum underneath. _h._
3ft. Victoria and Tasmania, 1820. SYN. _Cacalia salicina_. (B. R.
923.)

=BEDSTRAW.= _See_ =Galium=.

=BEECH.= _See_ =Fagus=.

=BEES.= _See_ =Honey Bees=, =Humble Bees=, and =Wasps=.

=BEET= (_Beta_, which _see_). The present varieties of Beetroot are the offspring of _Beta vulgaris_, a plant of biennial duration, and a native of the sea coasts of Southern Europe. It was cultivated in this country about 1656, but was probably long previously introduced by the ancient Romans. Beetroot is largely used as salad, more extensively on the Continent than with us, also pickled; medium sized, deeply coloured roots being the chief desideratum. Some varieties are largely grown for their highly-coloured foliage, being planted in bedding-out designs, and generally proving extremely effective.