BARKER I A

(name commemorative of the late G. Barker, of Birmingham, an ardent cultivator of orchids). O RD. Orchid aceæ. From a scientific point of view, this genus should be included in Epidendrum. Very handsome, deciduous, epiphytal, cool-house orchids, having slender pseudo-bulbs, from 6in. to 12in. high, from the top of which the numerous flower-stems are produced. In a cool, airy temperature, these plants grow vigorously, suspended in pans or small baskets close beneath the gla , and slightly shaded with tiffany. They succeed well also on flat blocks of wood, on the top of which they should be tied, without any mo , as their freely-produced, thick, fleshy roots soon cling to the blocks. During the season of growth, a good supply of water is needed, and in hot weather it may be applied three or four times daily; the blocks and plants are best immersed in water; but when at rest, a slight watering twice or three times a week will suffice. Propagated by divisions, just previous to the commencement of new growth.