store it in a dry place, as it requires no moisture while in a dormant
state. In September the flowers are produced. Height, 6 in. O.
Umbellatum (Star of Bethlehem) is a pretty little flower often found
in English meadows, is quite hardy, and once established may be left
undisturbed for years. It throws up large heads of starry flowers,
which are produced in great abundance. While in a dormant state the
bulbs should be kept almost dry. It is propagated by off-sets; flowers
in May. Height, 1 ft.
Orobus.--These hardy perennials bear elegant Pea-shaped blossoms. The
plants will grow readily in any light soil, and are easily increased
by root-division in the spring, or by seeds. They flower in June.
Height, 2 ft. to 3 ft.
Osmanthus.--These elegant hardy evergreen shrubs succeed best in
light, sandy loam, and like a dry situation. They may be increased by
cuttings of the young shoots with a little old wood attached, or they
may be grafted on to common Privet. The variegated varieties are very
beautiful. They grow well on chalk soils. Height, 4 ft. to 6 ft.
Othera Japonica.--A newly introduced evergreen shrub very similar to
the Holly. It is perfectly hardy and may be treated in the same manner
as that plant.
Ourisia Coccinea.--A hardy herbaceous, surface-creeping perennial of
singular beauty as regards both leaf and flower. The soil in which it
is grown must be well drained, a peat one being preferable; and the
position it occupies must be well shaded from the rays of the midday
sun. It flowers from May onwards to September, the cut bloom being
admirable for mixing with fern leaves. As soon as new life starts in
spring the roots may be divided. Height, 9 in.
Oxalis.--A genus of very pretty bulbous plants that thrive well in a
mixture of loam, peat, and sand, or will grow in any light soil. Most
of the tender kinds may be reared in a frame if protected from frost
in the winter. After they have done flowering they should be kept dry
until they begin to grow afresh. They are increased by off-sets from
the bulb. The hardy species should be planted in a shady border, where
they will grow and flower freely. The seeds of these may be sown in
the open in spring. Some of the varieties have fibrous roots: these
will bear dividing. They are equally suitable for pots, borders, or
rock-work. Height, 9 in. to 3 ft.
Ox-Tongue.--See "Bugloss."
Oxythopis Campestris.--A hardy perennial with lemon-yellow flowers in
June and July. It will grow in any good garden soil, and is propagated
by seed only, which should be sown where the plants are intended to be
grown. Height, 6 in.