Flora, seu, De florum cultura, or, A complete florilege, furnished with all requisites belonging to a florist by John Rea, Gent.

FLORA . THE FIRST BOOK . Of the making and planting of Fruit and Flower-gardens , with a Nurcery for Fruits and Flowers to furnish both .

FAir Houses are more frequent than fine Gardens ; the first effected by Artificers onely , the later requiring more skill in the Owner : few Gardens being found well furnished out of the hands of an affectionate Florist . The love of such a Master will keep each tender Plant alive , his care and skill hath collected : for never was any Art or Excellence liked or loved by the Ignorant ; it is Knowledge that begets Affection , and Affection increaseth Knowledge . Love was the Inventer , and is still the Maintainer , of every noble Science . It is chiefly that which hath made my Flowers and Trees to flourish , though planted in a barren Desart , and hath brought me to the knowledge I now have in Plants and Planting : for indeed it is impossible for any man to have any considerable Collection of noble Plants to prosper , unless he love them : for neither the goodness of the Soil , nor the advantage of the Situation , will do it , without the Masters affection : it is that which animates , and renders them strong and vigorous ; without which they will languish and decay through neglect , and soon cease to do him service .

I have seen many Gardens of the new model , in the hands of unskilful persons , with good Walls , Walks and Grass-plots ; but in the most essential adornments so deficient , that a green Medow is a more delightful object : there Nature alone , without the aid of Art , spreads her verdant Carpets , spontaneously imbroydered with many pretty Plants and pleasing Flowers , far more inviting than such an immured Nothing . And as noble Fountains , Grottoes , Statues , &c. are excellent ornaments and marks of Magnificence ; so all such dead works in Gardens , ill done , are little better than blocks in the way to interrupt the sight , but not at all to satisfie the understanding . A choice Collection of living Beauties , rare Plants , Flowers and Fruits , are indeed the wealth , glory and delight of a Garden , and the most absolute indications of the Owners ingenuity ; whose skill and care is chiefly required in their Choice , Culture , and Position .

I have known many Persons of Fortune pretend much affection to Flowers , but very unwilling to part with any thing to purchase them ; yet if obtained by begging , or perhaps by stealing , contented to give them entertainment : An Unworthiness more unpardonable in the Rich , than punishable in such Poor as steal through want . And perhaps to some he may seem no wiser , that parts with forty or fifty pounds for an Horse or Hawk , which must be daily fed and attended , than he that gives so many shillings for a noble Plant or beautiful Flower , that needs little of either . But our faces are not more variable than our affections ; and , I fear , that to Flowers is too innocent for this Age ( guilty of so much wickedness ) to take delight in . Yet since our long Winter is so well over , and our illustrious late-obscured Luminaries have now regained their former splendour , I shall adventure to bring forth my Plants and Flowers into the open air : but before I unveil their beauties , or discover their qualities , it will be necessary to prepare their lodgings , places to plant them . Thus much by the way as we pass to the Garden .

I shall now proceed to inform all such as desire to be Florists , how they may do as I have done , make their own Gardens themselves , assisted onely by ordinary Labourers : in which undertaking it is not my intention to intrude upon the Gardeners trade , nor to amuse the Readers with Romantick Inventions ; but ( as a Florist ) to acquaint the unskilful with such Rules and apt Forms , as may be fit for the planting and disposing of the best Flowers ; and in so plain and easie a method , that every person of any capacity may be enabled thereby to be his own Gardener , observing that which followeth .

To the Habitation of every Gentleman , or Person of considerable Fortune and Ingenuity , there should belong two several Gardens joyned together , and onely divided with a Wall , so as there may be a passage out of the one into the other ; and both of these for delight , recreation , and entertainment . As for the Kitchen-garden , a place more remote will be requisite , serving onely for the publick use of the Family : but these two Gardens of delight would be seated on the South side of the House , in respect of prospect from the Windows , and the benefit of Sun , and Shelter , which many tender Plants , Fruits and Flowers do necessarily require . Some to abate the rigour of the North and East winds , plant Pear-trees , Elms , or Sicamores , in default of Buildings , at convenient distance without the walls ; which may be considered upon sight of the place ; for Situations are so various , that no positive Rules can possibly serve to fit all : besides , every one abounds with his own reason , and may adde or alter as the place and his purpose shall require .

The most graceful grounds for these Gardens , is an intire level ; and the best Soil , is that , which is neither Clay nor Sand , but partaking of both : and if either , it may be much helped by Compost . Hanging grounds , uncapable to be cast into a Level , seldome make handsom Gardens : such must be divided into parts , with Descents , as the convenience of the place will afford ; in the designing and ordering whereof , I shall advise all such as are unexpert in such operations , to be guided by some honest , and skilful Gardener , or other experienced person , upon whose judgement they may relie , and not trust to the dilates of a green fancy , lest they imploy their pains to purchase repentance , as I know many have done .

The first of these Gardens of Delight , we will call the Fruit-garden , the other the Flower-garden , which would be lesser , and placed immediately under the walls of the house ; the other on the East or West side thereof , according to the quality of the place . I shall not advise any , to make either of these Gardens too big , for such are commonly ill furnished , and worse kept . Fourscore yards square for the Fruit , and Thirty for the Flower-garden will be enough for a Noble-man : but for a private Gentleman , Forty for the one , and Twenty for the other will be sufficient ; and so bigger or lesser , according to the draught you make choice of , or the fortune and fancy of the owner .

If you are to inclose a new ground for a Garden , be careful in placing the Walls , that the size , situation and form , may all be answerable to your intended plot : the ground exactly measured , and tried , that the Walls may be neither out of square or level , which will much advantage the work which is to follow . For the Foundation and a foot higher , Stone may serve , but after Brick is best ; raising them nine foot high at the least , on the inside the Garden , and scued only on the outside ; and for dividing the Fruit from the Flower-garden , a thin wall of five or six foot high may serve ; or else half Pales , cut with handsom heads , and put into a Brick colour , with equal portions of red Lead and Ochre , ground on a Painters stone with Linseed Oyl , serving fitly for the planting of fine Roses , on either side . The walls being finished , the ground is to be prepared for planting : and first we will begin with the Fruit-garden .

In the first place you are to divide the Walls for Trees : allowing about twelve foot in large Gardens betwixt them , and half the measure at the corners : in lesser Gardens ten foot or thereabouts , more or less , according to the spreading of the trees you intend to plant . Mark the places where they are to be set , then trench the Borders round about the walls a yard wide , and about two foot deep ; but about the places marked for trees , two yards square , that their roots may have room to spread , casting therein good store of old , well-rotted Neats dung , which will last much longer than that of Horses ; and let it be all over about a foot thick , well mingled with good Earth , and troden down : then lay thereon another course of Earth mixed with Dung , and therewith raise the Borders to the height desired : then mark and stake out the form of the whole Garden , according to the design or draught you shall fancy ; so that you may know the places where the Beds and Borders will be ; the which must be trenched , and dunged as the former : but before you begin to set out any part of the Garden , the whole must be well digged , and cast into a level , from side to side .

The ground thus prepared , and having provided sawed Rails , five inches broad , and an inch and quarter thick , that have been laid straight , and seasoned a year at the least , let them be lined on the upper edge , gaged to a thickness , smoothed with a Plain , on that edge , and outer side , fitted to lengths , and pieced according to the Timber , and order of the work : you may put them into a Stone-colour , with white Lead , common Ceruse , or London white , some Charcoal , and Linseed oyl ground together on a Painters stone : but the Rails , and the Stone-colour will last much longer , if they be first well primed with red Lead and Umber ground as the former : then after the Colours are drie , and the Rails fitted to their places , nail on the insides thereof , pieces of hard wood that will last , about half a yard long , placing them an inch under the upper edge : if you set them too thin , the Rails will be apt to warp , and turn with the Sun : which done with discretion , make holes to let these feet into the ground , and so place them by a line , and a long level , that the upper edges may all be of one entire level , throughout the whole work , beginning with the Borders about the walls , and so place all the rest in order , accordingly as the draught shall direct you : let the feet be well ramm'd , and the rails kept straight and level , raised up , that they may be four inches on the outer side above the ground , after the Allies are gravelled and made : then fill every Bed and Border with good screened or sifted earth , and leave them like a ridge , higher than the Rails in the middle .

The next work , is to prepare the places intended for Grass , and to provide Turfs for them . First , level the ground , and consider the thickness of the Turfs , which when layed , must be three inches lower than the upper edge of the Rails , and the Allies four inches , so the Grass will be an inch higher , remembring still from the Rails to fetch your measures , and level , to keep the whole work in order ; and if the ground under the Turfs be not barren of it self , it should be covered some thickness with hungry Sand to make it so , that the grass grow not too rank . The best Turfs for this purpose are had in the most hungry Common , and where the grass is thick and short , prick down a line eight or ten foot long , and with a Spade cut the Turfs thereby , then shift the line a foot or fifteen inches further , and so proceed untill you have cut so far as you desire , then cross the line to the same breadth , that the Turfs may be square , and cut them thereby : then with a straight bitted Spade , or Turving-Iron ( which many for that purpose provide ) and a short cord tied to it near the Bit , and the other end to the midle of a strong staff , whereby one thrusting the Spade forward under the Turfs , and another by the staff pulling backward , they will easily be flaied and taken up , but not too many at a time for drying , but as they are laid ; which must be done by a line , and a long level , placing them close together , and beating them down with a Mallet : having covered the quarter , or place intended , let it be well watered , and beaten all over with a heavy broad Beater : Lastly , cut away by a line what is superfluous , that the sides may be straight and eaven , or in what work you shall please to fancy .

The Grass-plots being finished , you may proceed to gravel the Walks and Allies . There are several kinds of Gravel , the Cat-brained binding gravel is the best , and the loose Sandy gravel the worst ; lay it something thick , and beat down every course , the worser in the bottom , and fine screened gravel on the top , and in finishing , leave the Walks a little round in the middle ; for the level , the Rails on either side will direct you that you cannot erre , remembring to lay the Walks and Allies four inches under the edge of the rails : these Walks and Grass-plots must be often rolled with a weighty stone roller to keep them smooth and in good order . And now this Garden is ready to be planted with Trees , Shrubs and Flowers , each thing in its proper season .

The best time for planting Trees and Shrubs is in October , and then either of your own provision , or out of the Nurceries about London , you may furnish the walls with Pears , Plums , Cherries , Apricocks , Peaches , Nectorins and Vines , making choice out of Pomona's store of such you desire ; where you will find what Fruits are fittest for Walls , and what for Standards ; which may be disposed and set in the Garden at proportionable distances : betwixt which may be placed Roses , Currans , Goosberries , Cypress-trees , Miszerions , or what other Shrubs or Greens you like . The Borders about the walls and the rest of the Beds may be furnished with the more ordinary sorts of Flowers , as Lilies , Martagons , Pionies , Daffodils , Tulips , and so of all other sorts , such of each kind as are least worthy to be received into the Flower-garden , where I would have all things rare . As for the placing , planting and ordering of all the Plants , Fruits and Flowers , wherewith this or the Flower-garden is to be furnished , it is needless to be here expressed , for that at the end of every Chapter , where each particular is treated of , you will find ample direction for the doing thereof .

In default of Timber to make Rails of the thickness forementioned , Inch-boards slit to the breadth may serve ; and some make use of Tiles or Bricks moulded on purpose , but both these are apt to break with the Frosts , and to be out of order . Some are at the charge to set their Gardens with Free-stone , hewed for the purpose , which standing in the ground ( unless it be very good ) will moulder away , and cleave with the Winter-frosts . Next to the forementioned Rails , Box well set is the best to border large Beds in a Fruit-garden , and suits very well with Grass , and may fitly serve for all but the Borders to the Walls , which would be kept up with Rails .

Pallisado's ( or , as we usually call them , Pole-hedges ) are much in fashion in France , and there set with dwarf Fruit-trees ; such are troublesom to keep in order , and subject to strong Winds , fit onely for spacious Gardens : but the best hedges for our Countrey are those set with Pyracantha and Phyllirea ; and for lower in lesser Gardens , Celastrus and Alaternus ; these will be alternately green , and correspond exceeding well with Box and Grass : these Hedges must be kept narrow , and supported with stakes , rods or laths on either side , and as they grow , cut straight by a line on the top , and even on the sides . How to raise these Plants , and when to set them , you may find directed in the places where they are described .

And now having done with the Fruit-garden , and made it a fit repository for Fruits , Plants and Flowers of the more common kinds ; we will proceed to the Flower-garden , and fashion it in the form of a Cabinet , with several boxes fit to receive , and securely to keep , Natures choicest jewels .

Having made choice of a Plot that for measure may fit the place , and stand provided of Rails four inches broad , and an inch and quarter thick , that have been well piled , kept straight , and seasoned , you must make use of some understanding Joyner to work them ; first he must be made acquainted with the Draught , whereby he may know the length of every Piece from each corner and angle , ( allowing for the joyning them together ) and also the number of Pieces in every length ; which being cut out , must be lined , gaged and plained , as before is directed in the Fruit-garden ; these only differing , in that they are to be moulded with an half Round on the outer edge . The Rails thus prepared , in the great Allies , near the place where they are to stand , may be joyn'd and fast nail'd together at every corner and angle , and as the several Pieces are finished , set on the ground ( which must first be levell'd ) in their proper places ; and when all is finished , set them exactly by a line , a long level , and a standing measure , for the breadth of the inner Alleys , which must be as broad as the Beds . Every Piece , if they be of equal and true measure , perfectly square at each corner and angle , will answer to the Line every way . When they are thus placed , and having prepared many pieces of hard wood , of half a yard long , and of a considerable bigness , that they may last the longer , let them into the ground on the inside the Rails , an inch under the upper edge , and there nail and fasten them ; the more of these feet you make use of , the faster and better the work will stand , and not warp or turn with the heat of the Sun . Before the holes be filled , prime the Rails with Linseed-oyl , Red-lead and Umber , well ground on a Painters stone , and after put them into a Stone-colour , with any of the forementioned Whites , Charcoal and Oil : as soon as the Colours are dry , place the Rails exactly , and try them every way with the line and level , filling and ramming the feet hard , that they may not stir out of their places . The Borders about the Walls are to be of the same breadth and level with the Beds , and railed about on all sides after the same manner . All which diligently performed , take the Earth out of every Bed and Border by degrees as you work them , about two foot deep , and lay the same in the Alleys , not stirring the Feet ; then cover the bottoms all over with good old Neats dung , that it may be six inches thick , after it is hard trodden : next skreen the Earth , or sift it through a Wier-riddel , and do the like by old Dung rotted to Earth , spread thin on the ground to dry , that it may the better pass through the Skreen or Riddel , and fill the Beds and Borders therewith , putting in almost as much of the one as the other , more or less as the Earth is in goodness , which stir up and mingle well together , and so proceed untill all be finished . Lastly , make the Alleys , those within the Fret , raised with good binding Sand , laid smooth , and hard beaten , so that they may all lie level three inches under the upper edge of the Rails . For this Garden I design one of the Draughts of twenty three divisions , and each to be two foot six inches broad , then the Fret will be nineteen yards six inches square ; next thereunto an Alley of the same breadth round about , then a Border of the same breadth railed about as the Beds , broken about a yard and half wide for goings in , in the middle of every side , then close up to the outer Rail , on the inside put Posts into the ground at each corner and end , with others betwixt them equally divided ; these Posts must be of good sawed Timber , of about five inches square , and four foot high above the Rails ; let them be well ramm'd , and of equal height , fastening on the heads thereof Rails of the same breadth , unto which , and that at the foot , nail good well-prepared Laths sloping , six inches asunder , both ways chequer-wise , as every Joyner knows how : this Lattice-frame being well made , may be first primed white , and after coloured green in oil , with Pink and Verdigreefe , or Ortment and Indico . The Rail next to the Fret must be answerable thereunto , and the Border filled according to the rest . All which performed , gravel the great Alley , and coat it with the same Sand , that it may be of the colour of the rest .

This inner Alley and Border will take up three yards and one foot , the Borders to the Walls one yard and two foot , the great Alleys five yards , two foot and six inches ; to which nineteen yards and six inches ( the measure of the Fret ) being added , the whole Garden from wall to wall will be just thirty yards square .

And because divers have Gardens already enclosed , that the measure of the forementioned Fret will not fit , I have therefore designed Draughts of several sizes , that every one may take that which best agrees with his ground , and is most proper for his purpose : the same Rules ( before expressed ) serving for all , onely altering the Measures for the breadth of the Beds and Alleys , observing the true division , of which every Fret may be , what will best agree with the place from two foot to a yard . And those that want Timber to make Rail's after the manner before directed , may set the Beds and Borders with French Box , and instead of the forementioned Lattice make a thin Pole-hedge with Celastrus , Alaturnus , Pyracantha and Phyllirea , or what of these he can get , which being ever green will agree very well with the Box : but the Borders to the Walls nevertheless must be supported with Rails , to keep them and the Walks divided and in good order .

I know a Garden so set with Box will shew very well , and ( if carefully kept ) will last many years ; but it will be three years before the Box be grown to perfection ; besides , the Roots , if not cut away on the inside with a keen Spade every other year , will run into the Beds , and draw from the Flowers much of their nourishment : also it must be kept cut , and sheared three times every year at least ; whereas a Garden set with Rails is free from all these inconveniences , presently in perfection , and kept with little labour , onely rolling the great Alleys , smoothing the rest , and weeding the Beds ; which , though often stirred and turned over in taking up Roots , mending the Soil with sifted Dung , or planting again , you need not fear to lose the Level , the Rails will still direct you : and as the Ground sinks , the same must be raised again with good Earth mingled with Lime and Dung , which hath lay en on an heap to rot the best part of a year , that it may be sifted and imployed to that purpose . And as I told you in the former Garden , when you earth up these Beds , lay them not flat , but something round towards the middle , especially if the Ground be apt to hold wet . The greatest care , skill and curiosity is required in the ordering , disposing , planting and preserving each rare Plant and tender Flower , wherewith this Garden is to be furnished , and , although you may find ample direction at the end of each Chapter ( where the particulars are inserted ) for the doing thereof , yet a word or two in this place will be necessary , for the placing some Plants and Flowers in this Garden , which we design to be of thirty yards square , with a railed Fret of twenty three divisions , and a latticed Border ; and first we will begin with the Walls ; those on that side open to the South , or South-east , I would have planted with the best Peaches and Nectorines , set twelve foot asunder , and an Indian Gesmine and double Clematis in the middle betwixt those Trees that stand next to the corners , and a double-flowered Pomgranate betwixt each of the other ; the East and West sides with the best Plums and Cherries ; and the North side ( if the Walls be high ) with the best Pears grafted in Quince-stocks , and betwixt every two of these Trees a tall standard Rose-tree , ordered in such manner as in the Chapter of Roses is directed , that each may bear several coloured Roses on one stock . The Borders to the Walls are best to plant Auricula , red Primroses , Hepaticaes , double Rose-champion , double Nonsuch , double Dames-violet , the best Wall-flowers , double Stock-gilliflowers , and many other things you will find directed to be planted under Walls . The inner side of the Lattice is to be set round about with several sorts of fine Roses , cut near the ground , that the new Shoots may be wound into the Lattice all over , and no place left bare , the which must be seasonably cut on the top eaven with the Rail , and also on the sides , so in two or three years you will have a noble Hedge of Roses , which will be an excellent ornament to the Garden . The Border next this Rose-hedge is chiefly intended to place Pots upon , on all sides , with the best Gilliflowers , Auricula's , Myrtles , Oleanders , and all other potted Plants , onely the edge next the Rail is to be set with all the several sorts of Crocus , mingling and placing together such as are of a season .

Now for planting the Beds in the Fret , you must consider every piece , and place the Roots so as those of a kind set in several Beds may answer one another ; as in the corners of each Bed the best Crown-Imperials , Lilies , Martagons , and such tall Flowers ; in the middles of the five Squares great Tufts of the best Pionies , and round about them several sorts of Cyclamen ; the rest with Daffodils , Hyacinths , and such like : the streight Beds are fit for the best Tulips , where account may be kept of them : Ranunculus and Anemonies also require particular Beds ; the rest may be set all over with the more ordinary sorts of Tulips , Frittillaries , bulbed Iris , and all other kinds of good Roots , in such sort as you will find directed where they are described . And every year , as your stock increaseth , you may dispose them according to your own fancy , or alter the places of any Roots that lose their Fibres , at your pleasure ; but such Flowers , whose Roots retain them , are considerately to be placed at first , where they may stand divers years without removing .

It will be requisite to have in the middle of one side of this Flower-garden a handsom Octangular Somer-house , roofed every way , and finely painted with Landskips , and other conceits , furnished with Seats about , and a Table in the middle , which serveth not onely for delight and entertainment , to fit in and behold the beauties of the Flowers , but for many other necessary purposes ; as to put the Roots of Tulips and other Flowers in , as they are taken up , upon Papers , with the names upon them , untill they be dried , that they may be wrapped up and put in Boxes ; for writing the names , both in planting and taking up , of all Flowers , in order as you dispose them : for shelter in case of a sudden showre of rain , and divers other purposes you will find this House to be fit for , which is indeed a thing so necessary , that it cannot ( with any convenience ) be wanting , and therefore ought to be considered in the setting up of the Walls , wherein it is to be placed , so that it come not further into the Garden than the just breadth of the Border , for putting of it out of square .

These Gardens will not be maintained and kept well furnished , without a Nurcery , as well of Stocks for Fruits , as of Flowers and Seedlings , where many pretty Conclusions may be practised for the raising of new varieties of divers kinds , which is indeed the principal part of a Florist : and here you may yearly make your Hot Bed , for the raising of choice Annuals . In the side of this Nurcery you should also have a convenient House to put in such necessary Tools as are to be used about the Gardens , as a Skreen , a fine Wier-riddle , two Spades , a bigger and a lesser , likewise Shovels , and Howes of several sizes , a Pruining-hook , Grafting-knives , a Saw , a Chissel and Mallet , as also a small Pen-knife for Inoculating , and laying of Gilliflowers , a Line and Rule , Trowels of several sizes , a handsom Hammer , with two pair of Garden-shears , and two Iron Rakes , a bigger and longer in the head , and a shorter with the Teeth thicker set , with several Baskets of Twigs , and Besoms , to sweep and carry away the clensings of the Gardens ; as also for the keeping of Roots after they are taken up , Seeds , and such like things ; but chiefly for the housing your Greens and other tender Plants in Winter ; for which purpose it ought to have a Stove , or raised Hearths in several places , that with a small Fire you may gently attemper the Air in time of hard Frosts . Also in this Nurcery there should be always kept a provision of Dung of several sorts , as that of Neats , Hogs , Horses and Sheep , Pigeons and Poultrey , each of these laid severally on heaps , the four first mixed with Lime , and all of them covered with Earth , to putrifie and rot , that they may be ready to sift , and supply the Flower-garden on all occasions : for if your Ground be hot and sandy , Neats dung with Lime is the best ; if cold and inclining to clay , that of Horses , Pigeons or Poultry is good to help it ; for Fruit-trees Hogs dung well rotted is good , especially in hot Grounds ; for Gilliflowers Sheeps dung , for Auricula Neats dung sifted , with little Earth in it ; old Wood-pile earth and Willow earth are both good for tender Plants that will not endure Dung . These several Composts being had in readiness , and applied with discretion , all the noble Plants and Flowers , whose Descriptions hereafter follow , by the Rules there set down may be increased , preserved , and kept in their best perfection .

The convenience of Water to these Gardens is very considerable , and if it be to be drawn or pumped out of a Well , a Ciftern is necessary , which filled , and let stand in the Sun two or three days , will be fit to water any young or tender Plant whatsoever : for which purpose you should have three Watering-pots , one of the ordinary fashion of Tin or white Iron , with a Head full of small holes ; another with a Pipe onely to let out the water ; a third of Earth , with a small neck , and many small holes in the bottom : the first is to water Plants in Somer ; the second to water Pots with rank water , wherein the dung of Sheep , Pigeons or Poultrey hath been imbibed , that it may be put to the Roots of Gilliflowers , and other housed Plants , without wetting or staining the Leaves or Branches ; the third being put into water will fill from the bottom , which will stay in so long as you stop out the air with your Thumb at the top ; this fitly serveth to water young and tender Seedlings of Auricula , and such like , without washing the Earth from them ; for by the motion of your Thumb you may cause the water to fall gently upon them , more or less , as you shall desire . It is also necessary to have a small Pump , either of Wood or white Iron , about a yard long , with a Sucker and Sweep like ordinary Pumps , onely the lower end , and also the hole in the end of the Pipe from whence the water issueth , if made of Wood , are to be covered with Plates full of holes : with this Pump , being put into a Pail or Cowl of water , you may soon water a whole Garden ; but the chiefest use of it is , to eject water up into Wall-trees to wash away Mill-dews , Caterpillars , and other noisom vermin , as also to cause the Fruits in hot and dry seasons to be fairer , and to ripen much the better .

And now , because laying of Branches , planting by Cuttings , Budding , and the Hot Bed , are often mentioned in the following Directions , it will be necessary , for the avoiding of Repetition , in this place to inform such as are to learn how these several Operations are to be performed .

And first for the laying of Gilliflowers , make choice of such Slips as are strongest and fittest to lay , prune the sides and ends of the top-leaves , and under the middlemost joynt cut the stalk half through , and slit the same upwards to the next joynt ; make a hole in the Earth something wide , and gently bend it down thereinto with a small hooked stick to keep it from rising , then turn up the head of the Slip that the slit may open , in which posture hold it with one hand and earth it up with the other , pressing it down to keep the Slip upright ; lastly water it . Now there are some good Slips that grow so far from the ground that they cannot be laid therein ; in this case we make use of small Pots with a slit in the one side , through which we draw the prepared Slip into the Pot , holding it down , and covering the slit with a thin plate of Lead provided for the purpose , bending the upper end over the edge of the Pot to stay it , turning up the Slip , and filling the Pot with fine rich Earth pressed down to keep it from rising . These Slips , Pots , and all other Slips laid , must be often watered , which will cause them to get roots the sooner . The best time for laying of Gilliflowers is from the middle of June to the same time in July ; the sooner the better , provided the Slips be well grown ; hard enough to endure cutting and bending down . In the beginning of September you may take them off with Earth about them , and set them in Beds or Pots filled with good Earth before prepared ; place these Pots in the shade , and sometimes gently water them , but take heed of too much wet , lest it rot the small fibres , and so destroy the young Plants ; which , for prevention of great Rains , ought to be sheltered with a shelf of thin Boards provided for the purpose , which place not too near them , that they may not want air .

Now for the laying of Roses , Gasmines , Jreens , and other woody Plants , after directed to be raised by Layers , make choice of such a Launce or Branch as may easily be bended to the ground ; those Shoots of the same year are best , and root soonest ; cut it half through on the under-side at a knot or joynt if it have any , then slit the same upward two or three inches long , and prick the Bark thorough with a blunt-pointed Awl , in divers places about the slit ; take off the tops of all laid Plants except Greens , then make a wide hole to hook it down , and proceed as in Gilliflowers . In such Plants as are unapt to root , bind the upper end of the slit very hard with a Packthred or Wier , which will stop the sap , and hasten the effect desired ; and fail not to put some rank Earth about the place layed . The best time to lay Greens , or indeed any other Plants , is about the middle of August , that they may prepare for rooting at the Spring : these Layers having passed a year in the ground , will be ready to be taken off ; and if you find them well rooted , it will be seasonable to remove them ; otherwise they may stay a year longer . All Layers must be frequently watered , which will cause them to root the better .

Cuttings are to be taken as soon as the Sap begins to rise , and cut sloping from a knot or joynt , at the lower end , like a Deers foot , and left about a foot long ; make a deep Trench and lay them therein a little sloping , fill the Trench with good Earth pressed down something hard , within two fingers of the smaller ends . All Plants that will grow of Cutting , will root sooner being layed , but Cuttings ( of such Plants as we have not our selves ) may be had of others , and in that case chiefly to be used . These Cuttings must be often watered , as the former .

As for Budding or Inoculating of Roses , it is performed after the same manner as that of Fruits , where among the several ways of Grafting you will find ample direction for the doing thereof .

When you are to make a Hot Bed , cast all your Horse-dung and wet Litter on a heap , in a corner of the Stable , that is of a fortnights gathering , more or less , according to your store ; then in the place where you intend to make it , knock in four Stakes , which must be left a yard at least above ground , place them at the corners , so that the Bed may be four foot broad , and of what length you please , then lay the Horse-dung with the wet Litter betwixt the Stakes suitably , not more short dung in one place than another , untill you have rais'd it two foot high , which tread down hard all over , and let not one place be softer than another ; then in the same manner raise it two foot higher , which tread down as the former , and so proceed untill you have raised the Bed a full yard high after it is hard trodden ; which done , knock in more Stakes about it , beat up the sides close , and wrap it about with large ropes of Hay , or long Litter , two wreaths above the dung , then take some of the Earth of an old hot Bed , or of the best in your Kitchin-garden , and sift it , which lay on your Bed four inches thick ; arch it over with small Poles , and cover it with Mats , Hair-cloth , or Canvas , which will cause it to heat in four or five days , then give it air , and when the violent heat is over sow your Seeds , and cover the Bed again ; the next day , if you find the Bed over hot , give it more air ; if too cold , cast some Straw on the covering untill the heat return , which by thrusting your finger into the Earth you may find whether too hot or cold ; and by this means by airing and covering you may keep the Bed in a constant temper , which should be warm rather than hot . When the Seeds come up , give them air to dry the moisture raised by the heat of the Bed ; and for your choicest Seeds , cover them from the Sun with Glasses raised to give them air , and some part of the day take them off , to acquaint the young Seedlings with the Sun by degrees , which grown strong , take up and plant in rich Earth in your Garden , but keep them from the mid-day Sun untill they are well setled in their new lodging .

We shall now give you some Draughts for Gardens , and then proceed to acquaint you with our Plants and Flowers .

CHAP. I.

Laurus .

THE Bay-tree among the Greens for many special properties may challenge Priority ; and therefore we will begin with some noble kinds thereof , omitting that common Bay wherewith all are so well acquainted , and fix that ever fresh and flourishing Fruit-bearer in the front of our Florilege , called

Laurocerasus .

THe Bay-cherry is a stately ever green Tree , growing in some places ten or twelve foot high , but most commonly in a thick Bush full of boughs and branches , covered in the old with a gray , and in the young , green bark ; plentifully adorned with thick , bright-shining green leaves , and many long stalks set with whitish flowers , which are succeeded by small Cherries , black when ripe , with stones like to the common Cherries . The aptness of this to be increased hath made it common , and therefore seldom admitted into curious Flower-gardens ; yet it may be a fit ornament for Court-walls , and those on the North side of the Fruit-garden .

Laurus Tinus .

THe Wilde Bay being spread upon a Wall will be five or six foot high , and full of branches , bearing at every joynt two leaves , which are smooth , something long , and of a dark green colour : at the tops of the branches come forth great tufts of small white flowers , with blush edges , sometimes succeeded by small blew berries , wherein the seed is contained . There is another of this kind called Laurus Tinus folio glabro , that differeth onely in that the leaves are larger , and of a brighter green colour .

Laurus Tinus Lusitanica .

THe Wilde Bay of Portugal differeth from the last , in that the leaves are harder , fuller of veins , and of a browner green colour , and the flowers a little inclining to purple ; the berries like those of the former , but smaller .

Laurus Rosea , sive Oleander .

THe Rose Bay-tree is of two sorts , the one bearing red flowers , and the other white , in no other respect differing : the stemme groweth to the bigness of a Mans Thumb , divided into three branches , bearing at every joynt , long , hard , thick , dark , green leaves ; at the ends of the branches come forth the flowers , which are of a deep blush colour in the one , and white in the other , consisting of four long narrow round-pointed leaves , which with us fall away without bringing seeds .

Laurus Indica .

THe Indian Bay with us thrives slowly , and is seldom found above four foot high : it groweth in a thick bush , the branches covered with a yellowish green bark , thick set with leaves , which are betwixt those of the Cherry-Bay and the common kind , something resembling those of the Cytron-tree : the flowers grow in a long spike of a greenish white colour , succeeded by berries like small Olives . This fine Plant is a stranger in England , and ( though an Indian , yet ) if defended from Frosts in Winter , will last many years , and may be increased by Layers .

Having now set down so many Bays as we think fit for this place , we will conclude with two other Greens , which in their beautiful still-green leaves much resemble them ; for should we follow the method of an Herbal , and place every kind in a particular Chapter , we should not so well inform such as desire to be Florists , either in the choice of , and manner how , to order , plant and dispose every particular , which is a knowledge chiefly to be inquired and learned by all ingenious lovers of these delights .

Mala Arantia .

THe Orenge-tree considered as it groweth with us , may more fitly be placed among the Greens than with the Fruits ; for that all the benefit it affordeth us , consisteth in the beauty of the ever-green leaves and sweet-smelling flowers , the fruit in our cold Countrey never coming to maturity . Orenge-trees in Spain and other hot Countries grow to tall and fair trees , but with us seem no other than shrubs . The bark of the elder boughs is brown , and the younger green , with some thorns ; the leaves are large , and of a fresh shining green colour , twining a little like those of Ivie , with many small holes in them , of a strong sweet sent , and never falling untill new thrust them off ; the flowers are of a whitish colour , and very sweet , succeeded by small round green fruit , which in time groweth to be something large , and of a yellowish red colour , as every one knoweth ; for although the Tree be rare and strange to many , the Fruit is common and well known unto all .

Arbutus .

THe Strawberry-tree groweth slowly , seldom rising to more than two yards high in Ireland its proper Countrey , but with us not so tall ; the body hath a rough , and the branches a smooth , bark : the leaves are alternately green like the Bays , finely purled about the edges , long and round pointed ; the flowers grow on the ends of the branches with long stalks , which are small little white bottles , like those of the Lily of the valley , succeeded by red berries when ripe , like to Strawberries , of a harsh taste , containing many small seeds .

The Cherry-Bay flowereth in May , and the fruit is ripe in September . The Wilde Bay flowereth in Winter , but in March and April is in its greatest beauty . The Rose Bay and the Indian seldom flower before July . The two Wilde Bays are hardy and easily rised , either from Suckers or Layers : the two other ; Rose Bays and Orenges , are more tender , and must be planted in strong Cases to be housed in Winter : the Rose Bay is apt to yield Suckers , by which it is increased , as the Indian Bay by laying down the branches .

The Orenge-tree is in its greatest beauty in the Spring , in respect of the sweet flowers , younger and elder fruits , with gallant green leaves , wherewith this busie Plant is at one time ( and at all times , in an agreeable Climate ) plentifully furnished . Young Plants may be raised by setting the Kernels in March in rich Earth in Cases , to be housed in Winter , for they will not endure one nights frost ; they may be grafted in the bud , or by approch with some more generous kind .

The Strawberry-tree is in its greatest glory in October and November , when the berries are ripe , which mixing with the fine green leaves are a delightful object . Young Plants are commonly raised from Seeds , and some by Layers , but it will be long before they root , and when removed the Earth must be taken with them , and carefully planted , for they are nice in their nonage , but elder Plants very hardy , and will prosper under any warm Wall , and last many years .

CHAP. II.

Myrtus .

THE Myrtle-tree , by the care of the Curious that delight in things that are so , may be preserved in our cold Countrey , although it be tender and impatient of our long frosty Winters . In hot Countries there are many more diversities of this Plant than we shall mention , or trouble our selves withall ; for indeed such tender things put us to more pains in their preservation , than they afford us pleasure in the enjoyment , being rather a vexation than a delight : we will therefore make choice of such , that by solemn invitation , diligent attendance , and courteous entertainment , will vouchsafe to live with us , and leave the rest to the Poets to grace the Elyzian Groves , or build green Bowers to shade the Paphian Queen : and first of that best known ,

Myrtus Latifolia .

THe Broad-leafed Myrtle groweth in a thick bush , sometimes four or five foot high , full of branches set with fine bright-shining , sweet , and ever-green leaves , somewhat broad and long ; at the joynts of the branches come forth the flowers , composed of fine small white leaves , with some white threds in the middle , and very sweet ; the roots consisting of many strings and fibres , as all Trees , Shrubs , and Wood-plants do .

Myrtus minore folio .

THe Lesser-leafed Myrtle groweth like the former , but not so high ; the leaves are thicker on the branches , and smaller pointed at the ends , like them , but of a deeper green colour , in other respects little differing .

Myrtus rotundiore folio .

THe Box-leafed Myrtle differeth onely from the last described , in that the leaves of this are round-pointed , like unto the leaves of Box , in all other parts agreeing . There is another narrow-leafed Myrtle , with small sharp-pointed leaves and branches erect , for which it is called the upright Myrtle , and we have another with narrow leaves , thick set with close-compacted branches , whence called the Birds-nest Myrtle .

Myrtus latifolia flore pleno .

THe double-flowered Myrtle in the manner of growing and green leaves is like unto the first described , onely as it is more tender , it groweth neither so large nor tall ; the chiefest difference is in the flowers , which in this are white like those of the other , but very thick and double , and of a delicate sweet sent .

Myrtus Boetica latifolia .

THe great Spanish or Laurel-leafed Myrtle is bigger in all the parts than any of the former ; it riseth to the height of a Man , and the leaves are like those of the Bay , but of a whiter green colour , set in a double row on both sides the branches , sweet in sent , and in flowers and fruit little differing from the first described .

These are the varieties of Myrtles preserved in Cases by our best Florists , and diligently housed in Winter , yet the last is more hardy , and with any care will endure ( planted at large ) the violence of Winter . We shall now subjoyn two other fine Greens , and so conclude this Chapter .

Gelsiminum Indicum flavum odoratissimum .

THe sweet yellow Indian Jasmine is a beautiful Green , and riseth with us about two foot high , dividing into branches , covered with a purplish coloured Bark , adorned with many fair shining , dark , ever-green leaves , in fashion like those of the Pomegranate , but longer and broader ; the flowers are like in form to those of the common white Jasmine , but bigger , of a fair yellow colour and sweet sent ; in their natural Countrey succeeded by fruits like small Olives , which with us flowering late never arrive to any perfection .

Phyllirea Variegata .

THe Variegated or striped Phyllirea is the most beautiful of all the kinds , and therefore in this place to be described as deserving a Case , and to stand among the fairest Greens : for the other sorts ( fit onely to form ever-green Hedges ) you will find in the end of this Volume among Greens more vulgar . This fine Plant riseth ( if suffered ) to the height of a Man , thick set with small branches , and those with small ever-green leaves constantly edged and striped with white , and may by the Shears be fashioned into what form you affect .

The Myrtles blossom about the middle of August , and continue flowering commonly untill the middle of December : the Indian yellow Jasmine flowers about the same time ; and the striped Phyllirea , whose glory consists in the variegated ever-green leaves , is at all times a choice object of delight , and hardy enough to be planted at large , where a little defended from Snows and Frosts , it will endure the Winter as well as the more ordinary kinds .

All these Plants are commonly set in Cases , and with Orenges and tender Plants housed in Winter , and increased by Layers after the manner before directed . The best time to transplant the more hardy kinds of Greens is about the Tenth of March , and for the more tender to be set in Cases toward the end of April : the Earth you set them in must be fresh , and such that hath long lain on an heap well mixed with good old Neats dung , often turned and well mixed untill throughly rotted ; but before this Earth be put into the Cases , it must be skreened or sifted , and a good quantity of short sticks of Oler , Withy , or any other soft wood , else broken bricks , pebble-stones , and such like rubbish , laid in the bottom of the Cases to draw away superfluous moisture and prevent clogging , which would rot the smaller fibres , and spoil the Plants , if not destroy them . Small sticks also cut short must in some quantity be mingled with the Earth , wherewith fill the Cases within three inches of the top ; these sticks will keep the Mould hollow and from clinging ; which done , rase or cut the bottoms of your Roots , and artificially set your Greens and other tender Plants therein , but not too deep by any means , rather chusing to leave some part of the Roots uncovered , than to place them too much under ground ; as soon as they are set water them , and keep them shelter'd from Wind and Sun untill they have taken root ; after a fortnight you may by degrees acquaint them with the Air , and when you find they have gotten strength , set them abroad . The same order is to be used with such Layers as you shall take off to plant in Cases in August .

Commit your Cases with Orenges , Myrtles , and other tender Plants , betimes , before the first Frosts , to their Winter-quarters the Conservatory , but shut them not up in the day-time especially , unless constrained by Fogs or Frosts , which lasting long , you must on fairer days acquaint them again with the Sun and Air by degrees ; during extreme Frosts , and when Water will freeze in your Conservatory , in default of Stoves or raised Hearths , you must attemper the Air with Pans of Charcole , especially at night , let the Coles be half burnt out before the Pans be placed , and then not set too near the Plants . In March , when the great Frosts are past , open the doors , and give them Sun and Air by degrees , a little at first , which increase with the Spring ; about the end of April set them forth , and wash them clean ( especially the Greens ) with a Watering-pot from dust and cobwebs ; and you must not forget while they are in the house to water them gently , especially in November , and after long Frosts , but let not the water touch the Leaves of any of the Greens , and chuse rather to give housed Plants too little water than too much . As soon as the Heats begin , cover the Earth in the Cases some considerable thickness with Moss , it will keep the Earth moist and from clinging , and water them as you find cause . Every Spring and Autumn , that is , a little before you set forth your Plants , and before you house them , you must take some of the Earth out of the Cases , and open the rest with a Fork or other fit tool , not hurting the roots of the Plants , and fill them up again with rank Earth , two parts Dung , well rotted and preserved for that and such like purposes .

These are the Rules observed by Mr. John Rose , the ingenious Keeper of the Garden at Essex-house in the Strand , where is now to be seen under his regiment a most noble Collection of the choicest Greens and rarest Shrubs that are planted in Cases , in a most healthy and flourishing condition .

CHAP. III.

Florentium Arbuscularum .

OF Flower-bearing Trees and Shrubs , which fall their leaves in Winter , and renew them again every Spring , there are many kinds ; in this place we will mention the rarest , and such onely as are fittest to furnish our Flower-garden , and leave the rest to beautifie the end of our Book . And first of the biggest and best known ,

Cerasus flore pleno .

THe double-flowered Cherry is in all parts thereof like unto the common English Cherry-tree , the onely difference is in the flowers , which of this are large , thick and double , of a pure white colour , and many growing together , which fall away without bearing fruit , recompencing that defect by the multitude of fair double flowers wherewith it is yearly adorned . There is another double-blossom'd Cherry of the kind of the common small black Cherry , which the French call Merisziere , that beareth large double flowers as big as the lesser double white Rose ; this is common in France , and doubtless a little time will make it so in England .

Arbor Persica flore multiplici .

THe double flowered Peach-tree differeth in nothing from the ordinary , but onely in the flowers , those of this being double , consisting of three or more rows of leaves , of a reddish blush colour , seldom succeeded by any fruit , the beauty of the flowers recompencing that defect .

Balaustium , sive Malus Punica silvestris .

THe double-blossom'd wilde Pomegranate-tree is the rarest of all the flowering Trees and Shrubs , if pruned up it will grow seven foot high , otherwise , in a thick bush full of small branches , with some thorns thereon , and many small shining green leaves , which fall away in Winter , and are renewed late in the Spring ; at the sides and ends of the branches come forth many hard , hollow , reddish , or Coral-coloured cups , and out of them most beautiful flowers , as big and double as the largest and thickest Province-rose , and of an excellent bright crimson colour . There is another of this kind with double flowers , that is lesser in all the parts thereof , the leaves of a sadder green , and the flowers more inclining to the colour of an Orenge : we also hear of another , with double striped flowers , which is yet a stranger in England .

Syringa , sive Gelsiminum Arabicum .

THe double white Pipe-tree or Jasmine of Arabia is a rare and tender Shrub , much desired by all Florists : it hath divers long , slender , stiff , woody branches , whereon grow many fair large leaves , something resembling those of the common white Syringa , but smoother , larger , eaven at the edges , and of a fresh green colour , two standing at every joynt one against the other , and at each joynt contrary to other ; at the ends of the branches come forth divers flowers , standing on several foot-stalks , each in a hose , like those of the common white Jasmine , containing fair double flowers , consisting of two , and sometimes three , rows of round-pointed white leaves , each row containing five or six leaves : the middle of the flower is hollow and something yellow , of a strong sweet sent , like unto that of Orenge flowers .

Syringa laciniatis foliis , sive Gelsiminum Persicum .

THe blue Syringa with cut leaves , or Persian Jasmine , cometh up with many small woody branches , finely decked with dainty green leaves , which are small , long , cut in , and divided almost to the middle rib , some into three small leaves on a side , and a larger at the point , others into two , and some have but one on each side , and that bigger at the end . All these varieties are commonly to be seen in the leaves of this fine Plant ; at the end of the branches come forth the flowers many together , in fashion like unto those of the ordinary blue Syringa or Lylac , but smaller , and of a finer purplish blue colour , and better sent .

Oleaster exoticus .

THe strange wilde Olive , or Tree of Paradise , is a sweet and beautiful Plant , and , though a great stranger , is contented with our homely entertainment : it riseth up with woody shoots , of a dark yellowish colour , set with long narrow whitish green leaves , bearing along the branches divers small flowers , of a greenish yellow colour , which ( in its natural Countrey , but seldom with us ) are succeeded by green berries like unto small Olives , which when they are ripe will be of a reddish colour ; the whole Plant , as well leaves as flowers , is of a sweet and pleasant sent . This out of Ferrarius .

Cytisus Maranthe .

Horned Tree Trifoile riseth four or five foot high , the body seldom bigger than a Mans Thumb , covered with a whitish bark , and the branches more white ; the leaves stand three together , lesser , rounder and whiter , than those of the ordinary Laburnum ; the flowers are like those of Broom , of a gold yellow colour , which in May come forth three or four together at the ends of the branches , succeeded by crooked flat thin Cods , like Horns or Half-moons , from whence called by the additions of Corniculatus and Lunatus ; it is a tender Plant , usually set in Cases , and housed with Greens in Winter , not to be increased by Seeds or Layers , but by taking off some new Slips in June , setting them in the shade , and keeping the Earth moist by frequent but gentle waterings .

Althaea fruticosa .

SHrub Mallow hath woody branches covered with a whitish bark , set with soft woolly whitish green leaves , in fashion like those of the Ribes or Curran-tree ; the flowers are large and like those of a single Holly-hock , in some of a deep reddish or violet-purple , in others paler or lighter , with the bottom of a deeper purple , running into the leaves in small veins ; and there is another that hath fresher green leaves and white flowers , with a large purple-spot in the bottom . Of this sort there is another that hath the flowers striped with faint purple or blush lines .

Amomum Plinii .

TRee Night-shade riseth about a yard high , with a woody stemm , and many green branches set with small long green leaves , something uneaven at the edges , which fall away in Winter ; at the joynts of the branches it putteth forth two or three flowers together of a star-like form , turning back the leaves , which are white with a yellow pointill in the middle , like unto those of the ordinary Night-shade , which falling away are succeeded by small green berries , that in December will be of a fine red colour , like unto little red Cherries , wherein is contained small flat white seeds .

Solanum fruticosa .

THe Shrub Night-shade hath a woody stock and branches about a yard high , of a dark brown colour , with sad green leaves ; the flowers are like those of the common Night-shade , in one white , and in another of a blue colour . There is one of this kind that hath the green leaves variegated with white .

Spiraea frutex .

THe Shrub Spiraea riseth up with divers woody stalks about a yard high , set with leaves like those of Sally , but lesser and nicked on the edges , at the tops of the stalks come forth divers small pale Peach-coloured flowers , thick set together in a long spike , lessening by degrees like a pyramis ; the root is woody and lasting , flowers in August , endures the Winter , and is increased by Layers .

Hypericum frutex .

WOody St. Johns wort hath two , three , or more woody stalks , which rise about a yard high , beset at certain distances with tufts of small green leaves , and among them many small flowers , white , and a little purple in the middle ; this pretty Plant flowereth in the end of April , endureth the Winter , and is increased ( as the former ) by Layers .

Mezerion .

DWarf Bay groweth in a thick bush full of branches , in some old Plants rising three or four foot high , covered with a tough bark , and set with small whitish round-pointed green leaves , which fall away in Autumn ; the flowers are small , consisting of four leaves , growing thick and close together on the sides of the new Shoots , wherewith they are on all sides covered , which in one ( the most common ) are of a pale blush colour , in another white , and in a third of a deep Peach-colour almost red ; these flowers are sweet , and may be smelled at distance ; which being past , in their places come forth many small berries , which when they are ripe are of a red colour .

The double-flowered Cherry is in blossom in April , and the double-flowered Peach in March ; the Cherry may be grafted in any other Cherry-stock , but the best way is to make choice of a stock that is big enough to hold two grafts , which may be grafted near the ground , the one graft of this , and the other of the Flanders Cluster-cherry , which growing up together , planted against a wall , the branches intermixed and nailed one within the other , so that after the double flowers of the one are past , the double fruits of the other may succeed , will be a wonder to those that do not understand by what means it is brought to pass , conceiving both to proceed from one kind . The double Peach will thrive best , and bring forth fairer flowers , being spread upon a wall , having been inoculated on an Apricock-stock .

The Balaustium bringeth forth its beautiful flowers towards the end of August ; it is a tender Plant , and must be either set in Boxes that it may be housed in Winter , or else under a South wall where it may have the benefit of the Sun in Somer , and the roots about it covered with Pease-straw or Litter to keep them warm from freezing in the Winter , and the branches also must be thatched with Broom , or some other provision , to defend them from nipping frosty air , which otherwise will cause them to die even to the ground , and many times never to spring again : but those that are desirous to preserve this and other tender Plants , and have a convenient house to remove them into in Winter , then this may be so handled , and not trusted abroad in the open air , for that the trouble of housing and preserving of a few , will be almost as great as that of many ; and new Plants may be raised either from Suckers , which it is apt to yield , or by laying down the branches .

The double white Syringa , or Arabian Jasmine , brings forth its fair odorous flowers from the beginning of May untill the end of September ; it is a great stranger in England , and very apt to leave us upon the least dislike ; therefore those that desire to entertain so curious and nice a guest , must aford it warm lodging in the Winter , and diligent attendance in the Spring , when first it comes abroad , and then perhaps it may be complemented to an acceptance of our courser countrey fare .

The blue Syringa with a cut leaves , or Persian Jasmine , flowereth in April , and is as courteous as the other is curious , it will live abroad in the open air planted under a wall , and yield us increase by laying down the branches , or by cuttings , being apt to root and thrive if a little defended from Frosts in Winter .

The Oleaster flowereth in May , and is planted and increased in the same manner as the last mentioned , and endureth the Winter as well . I intend that described by Ferrarius , and not that kind common with us , which wanteth the properties said to belong to this noble Plant.

The Shrub-Mallows shew their flowers commonly in August , sometimes later ; they are tender , and must be planted under a wall , and defended in Winter : the usual way to raise them is by laying down the branches in the Earth , and sometimes from the seeds gained out of hotter Countreys , for ours seldom bring any to perfection : they may be grafted the Aproach-way one upon another , so that from one root you may have all the forementioned varieties .

Tree Night-shade is a Plant well known , and chiefly respected for the beauty of the red berries , which will abide on the branches in Winter , at which time standing among Myrtles and other Greens , it maketh a fine shew : it is raised by sowing the seeds in March , which are apt to come up and grow , especially if they be sowed in a Pot of good Earth , and housed in the Winter .

The Shrub Night-shade is in flower toward the end of May , and increased by Layers .

The blossoms of the Mizerions begin to appear in the end of January , and usually continue flowering untill the beginning of April ; they are hardy , and will grow any where ; the way to raise them is by sowing the berries as soon as they are ripe , which will be about the middle of July ; they will lye long in the ground before they come up , therefore are usually sowed in some large Box filled with good Earth , and set in some place out of the way , where it will need no other attendance than onely weeding ; the second Spring after the sowing , and not before , they will come up : they which have nigh stood a year or two , may be removed according to the pleasure of the owner .

CHAP. IV.

Rosa .

THE Rose-tree is of divers excellent kinds , not known to former Ages , wherewith our English Gardens are now graced , and here in this place to be handled , together with our old store , which for many respects are not to be neglected ; and first we will begin with the red Rose of England , the most common and best known of all others , and in order proceed to the rest .

Rosa rubra Anglica .

THe English red Rose , wherewith all persons are so well acquainted , that it needeth no description ; we have observed some variety therein , the flowers of some to be of a far deeper Red than those of others , and others to be much doubler and thicker of leaves than the common kind , whereof I have one that is of a deep red colour , and as thick and double as any Rose whatsoever : and of late we have found another of this kind , with striped beautiful flowers , thence called

Rosa mundi .

THe Rose of the world in all the parts differeth not from this ordinary red Rose , but onely in the colour of the flowers , which in this are for the most part of a pale blush colour , diversly spotted , marked and striped , throughout every leaf of the double flower , with the same red colour which is in the ordinary red Rose , so that it is the most beautiful to behold of all the striped or variegated Roses we yet have seen ; the scent , as the form of the flowers , is like unto that of the common red Rose .

Rosa Hungaria .

THe Hungarian Rose , for the manner of growing , is like the common red Rose , onely the Shoots are green ; the flowers differ in that they are of a paler red colour , with many faint spots spread over the leaves of the double flower , which in shape and scent is like unto the ordinary red Rose ; this is of small beauty , and onely received by Florists for a variety .

Rosa Provincialis flore rubro .

THe red Province Rose hath branches and leaves much like unto those of the common red Rose , but bigger and greener ; the flowers are large , thick and double , spreading very broad , and laid open , of a paler red colour and sweeter scent than the ordinary red Rose ; of this kind I have one whose flowers are constantly spotted and marbled with deeper and paler red .

Rosa Belgica , sive vitrea , flore rubro .

THe red Belgick Rose is in branches and leaves very like unto the common red Rose , but much taller ; the flowers are exceeding thick and double , full of small leaves in the middle , and bigger on the outsides of the flowers , which when it is full-blown will turn towards the stalk ; the whole flower is of a fine deep red colour , and inferiour to no Rose of one colour whatsoever ; the sent is like to that of the common red Rose : this by some is called the Duke of Rowans Rose , as growing plentifully in his Garden . By our unlearned Florists and Nurcery-men , the Vitriol Rose , the African Rose , the Marigold Rose , are all one thing .

Rosa rubra humilis .

THe dwarf red Rose , by some called the Gilliflower Rose , groweth low , and never riseth so high as the ordinary red Rose ; like unto it , but with fewer thorns : the flowers are but small , yet thick and double , which in the bud before they open stand round and eaven , as if they had been clipt off with , a pair of Cisers , but when they are fully blown , are fine round double Roses , of a pleasant Carnation colour , and of the sent of the ordinary red Rose .

Rosa holoserica multiplex .

THe double Velvet Rose hath the young Shoots of a sad reddish green colour , with few or no thorns thereon ; the leaves are like those of the common red Rose , but of somewhat a sadder green ; the flowers contain two or three rows of leaves , which are of a dark red Velvet colour , with some marks of a lighter red in them , and many yellow threds in the middle : this seldom beareth any store of Roses , neither hath it any better sent than the ordinary red Rose .

Rosa marmorea .

THe marbled Rose in the manner of growing doth much resemble the Velvet Rose , the greatest difference is in the flowers , for those of this are larger , very double , and of a light red colour , marbled , veined , and marked with a deeper and lighter bluish gray-deline , very variably , some more than others , and some sadder and more inclining to purple , so that many times all these diversities on one bush are to be seen blown together ; for it is a plentiful bearer , and , besides the beauty of the Roses , the sent is very good , like , but better than that of the red Province Rose .

Rosa sine spinis .

THe Rose without thorns , or the Virgin Rose , is in shoots and leaves like unto the marbled Rose , but greener and smoother , without any thorns at all ; the flowers are not so thick and double , spreading their leaves and standing forward from each other , of a pale red colour , with part of them on the faces of a pale blush , and the backsides of every leaf wholly of whitish pale colour , so that the Roses when they come well ( for sometimes they will seem as blasted ) are fair and very sweet .

Rosa Francofurtensis .

THe Francford Rose hath strong reddish shoots full of thorns , with large thick whitish green leaves , the button under the Rose being bigger than that of any other ; the flowers are thick and double , many times breaking in the bud , and seldom opening fair or spreading their leaves smooth , but curled and crumpled , of a bluish red colour and sweet sent , like ( but stronger ) to that of the red Rose .

Rosa Cinnamomia .

THe Cinnamon Rose , as every one knoweth , ( it being as common as the first ordinary red Rose ) riseth up with tall red shoots , bearing in May many small double Roses , of a pale red colour and faint sent , a little like unto that of Cinnamon , from whence it took the name .

These are all the kinds of red Roses that hitherto have come to our knowledge , and now we shall proceed to the varieties of Damask or paler-coloured Roses , proper to be handled in the next place .

Rosa Damascena vulgaris .

THe common Damask Rose , although it be not so ancient an inhabitant of England as the common red Rose , yet it is as well known , and all the parts thereof , so that it needeth no further description .

Rosa Damascena versicolor .

THe party-coloured Damask Rose , or ( as it was commonly called ) York and Lancaster , differeth onely from the ordinary Damask Rose , in that the flowers are parted and marked , sometimes half the flower , and sometimes in some of the leaves , with a pale blush almost white upon the Damask Rose colour , from which in no other thing it differeth .

Rosa Crystallina .

THe Crystall Rose is in all parts thereof like unto the last , the onely difference is in the marking of the flowers , which in this are much fairer and better than in those of the other , being usually striped , spotted , and marked with pale white upon the Damask Rose colour , throughout every leaf thereof , not differing in sent or other respects from the two former .

Rosa Damscena variegata elegantior .

THe elegant variegated Damask Rose is something like the last described , onely the shoots are shorter and redder , and the leaves smaller , the flowers something doubler , and often better marked than either of the former : this is by some called Mrs. Hearts Rose .

Rosa Damascena Provincialis .

THe Damask Province Rose hath longer shoots and leaves than any of the former , and of a reddish green colour ; the Roses are somewhat of a deeper blush colour than those of the ordinary Damask , but three times as large , thick , and double , as all know that have any acquaintance with flowers , being now too common ; but were it as scarce and hard to be obtained as some others are , it would be of as much esteem as any whatsoever , the Roses being very fair , and the sent good .

Rosa mensalis .

THe monethly Rose is in all the parts thereof very like unto the Damask Rose ; it is said that in Italy it beareth seven moneths in the year , but I could never find or hear of any truth that it ever bore flowers in England above three , that was , in June , about the middle of August , and towards the end of September ; the Roses are very like the Damask , but something more double , and not all things so sweet .

Rosa Belgica , sive vitrea , flore rubicante .

THe blush Belgick Rose hath bigger branches and fuller of thorns than any of the former , the green leaves thicker , stiffer , and of a whitish green colour , the flowers grow many together on the ends of the branches , which are about the bigness of the ordinary Damask Rose , but very thick and double , and of a fine pleasant pale blush colour and sweet sent : this is the greatest bearer of all the Roses , and the distilled water thereof is almost as good as that of the Damask : some call it the white Province Rose , and some the Batavick Rose .

And these are the diversities of the Damask or paler-coloured Roses ; we shall now proceed unto the yellow Roses , and set down such diversities of them as are come to our knowledge .

Rosa lutea simplex .

THe single yellow Rose groweth as high as the Damask , the young shoots are full of small hairy prickles , and of a dark reddish colour ; the leaves are small and the flowers single , containing but five leaves , of a pale yellow colour : it is but a wilde Rose , and onely entertained in Gardens for variety .

Rosa Austriaca flore phoenicio .

THe scarlet Rose of Austria is in all the parts thereof like unto the last described , the chiefest difference is in the colour of the flowers , which in this on the inside of the leaves is of a fine scarlet , and on the outside of a pale brimstone colour ; and although this Rose be but single like the former , yet in respect of the colour so different from all other Roses , it is esteemed by all lovers of flowers .

Rosa lutea flore pleno .

THe double yellow Rose in the manner of growing doth something resemble the single kind ; the shoots are small and not so red , the leaves are rather smaller , and of a pale yellowish green colour ; the flowers , when they come fair , ( as they seldom do ) are very thick and double , containing a multitude of small pale yellow leaves , often with a great thrum in the middle , but when it cometh well it hath no thrum at all , but the leaves are folded in the middle like unto those of the Damask Province Rose : the sent is not considerable , its glory consisting in the form and colour onely .

These are all the varieties of yellow Roses that as yet are come to our knowledge , and now in the next place we will take a view of the diversities of white Roses , beginning with the most common .

Rosa alba vulgaris .

THe common white Rose is so well known unto all persons , that it needeth no description ; there are two sorts of ordinary white Roses , the one much doubler and fairer than the other , the best kind beareth fine double pure white Roses , and setteth off others very well , so that although it be common , yet we may afford room for one bush among the rest to increase the number of varieties .

Rosa incarnata .

THe blush Rose differeth in nothing from the ordinary white Rose , but onely in the colour of the flowers , for those of this are at the first opening of a fine pleasant blush colour , which after grow something whiter , in all other respects agreeing with the former .

Rosa moschata flore pleno .

THe double Musk Rose riseth very high with many green branches , and dark green shining leaves , armed with great sharp thorns , the flowers come forth on long foot-stalks at the ends of the branches , many together in a tuft , most of them flowering together , being small whitish or Cream-coloured Roses , not very double , the first row of leaves being much bigger than the rest , which are small , and stand loosly , not forming so fair a double flower as the ordinary white Rose . There is another of this kind that beareth single Roses , of much lesser esteem than this ; the flowers of both are chiefly valued for their scent , which is sweet like unto Musk , from whence they took the name : commonly they flower in August , after all others are past , but their usual time is in September .

Rosa Moschata alter .

THe other Musk Rose of some called the Damask Musk Rose , and of others the white Cinnamon Rose , is in the leaves and branches like the other , but groweth not so high , the leaves larger , and of a whiter green colour , the flowers bigger , whiter , and more double than those of the former , but not altogether so sweet ; this flowereth before the other in the end of other Roses , or presently after them .

Rosa Canina flore pleno .

THe double Dog Rose in leaves and branches is like the lesser white Rose , or wilde kind hereof ; the flowers are double , for which it is esteemed , of a faint whitish blush colour , and weak .

Rosa semper virens .

THe ever-green Rose groweth like the wilde Eglentine , the leaves fall not away in Winter as those of other Roses , which property hath imposed the name , but stay on untill they are thrust off at the Spring by new ; the flowers stand four or five together at the ends of the branches , which are single , containing but five leaves , which are of a pure white colour , and something in scent resembling the Musk Rose .

Rosa Hispanica Moschata .

THe Spanish Musk Rose riseth as high as the last , with great green branches , and bigger green leaves ; the flowers are single , containing five large white leaves , with an eye of blush in them , like in scent to the last described .

Rosa Pomifera major .

THe great Apple Rose hath a great stock and many reddish branches , with green sharp thorns ; the leaves are like those of the common white Rose , the flowers small and single , standing on prickly buttons , bearded like other Roses , which after the flowers are fallen , grow great , red , and of the fashion of a Pear , which red berries or apples are the chiefest ornament of this kind .

Rosa Eglenteria flore duplici .

THe double Eglentine onely differeth from the common single wilde kind , in that the flowers of this are double , composed of two , and sometimes three rows of leaves , of a pretty reddish colour , the scent both of the green leaves and flowers is the same with the wilde kind .

All these several sorts of Roses do bring forth their fair , sweet , pleasant , and profitable flowers in June , and continue flowering all that moneth , and most part of July , except such onely whose time is expressed in their Descriptions .

The best and most esteemed are , first , of the red Roses that called Rosa mundi , the Rose of the world ; Vitriensis , the red Belgick Rose ; the marbled Rose , the Rose without thorns , and the red Province Rose : of the Damask Roses , the crystal Rose , Mrs. Hearts Rose , the blush Belgick Rose , the monethly Rose , and the Damask Province Rose : of the yellow Roses , the scarlet Austrian Rose , and the double yellow Rose : of white Roses , the blush Rose , and the Damask Musk Rose . These are all excellent Roses , and none of them would be wanting in any good Florists Garden .

Roses are increased either by inoculating the buds of them in other stocks , or by laying down the branches in the earth : the best stocks to be inoculated upon are the Damask , the White , the Francford , and the wilde Eglentine ; the best time about Midsomer , or as soon as good buds can begotten .

All stocks of budded Roses must be carefully kept from Suckers , and if the Buds be placed near the ground , after one years growth the budded lance may be laid in the earth to root , whereby it will become a natural Tree , one of which is more worth than three that are budded , for that every Sucker that comes from them will be of the same kind , whereby they may be increased ; but all Roses are not apt to yield Suckers , and therefore the speediest and most certain way is , to lay down the branches , putting some old well rotted Dung about the place where they are laid , which will make them root the sooner .

All Roses are hardy enough , and will endure the Frosts in Winter , and the better the soil is you set them in , the better they will thrive , and the fairer will be the flowers ; they are usually disposed up and down the Garden in bushes , and under walls , and set in rows or hedges , supported and kept in on either side ; the several-coloured Roses intermixed and well placed , blowing together , will make a most gallant and glorious prospect . After they have done bearing , they must be cut with the Garden-shears something near , and toward the Spring each branch cut again with a knife close to a leaf-bud , and what is dead or superfluous taken away . Now there are some Roses that are not fit to be planted in a hedge ; as the Musk Roses , which will not bear at all unless they grow to some high wall or house-side , where they may have liberty to grow to their full height , which will be commonly eight or nine foot high ; also the double yellow , which is the most unapt of all others to bear kindly and fair flowers , unless it be ordered and looked unto in an especial manner ; for whereas all other Roses are best natural , this is best inoculated upon another stock ; others thrive and bear best in the Sun , this in the shade ; therefore the best way that I know to cause this Rose to bring forth fair and kindly flowers , is performed after this manner ; First , in the stock of a Francford Rose near the ground put in a Bud of the single yellow Rose , which will quickly shoot to a good length , then half a yard higher than the place where the same was budded , put into it a Bud of the double yellow Rose , which growing , the Suckers must be kept from the Root , and all the Buds rubbed off except those of the kind desired , which being grown big enough to bear , ( which will be in two years ) it must in Winter be pruned very near , cutting off all the small Shoots , and onely leaving the biggest , cutting off the tops of them also as far as they are small ; then in the Spring , when the Buds for leaves come forth , rub off the smallest of them , leaving onely some few of the biggest , which by reason of the strength of the stock affording more nourishment than any other , and the agreeable nature of the single yellow Rose from whence it is immediately nourished , the Shoots will be strong and able to bear out the flowers , if they be not too many , which may be prevented by nipping off the smallest Buds for flowers , leaving onely such a number of the fairest as the Tree may be able to bring to perfection , which Tree would stand something shadowed , and not too much in the heat of the Sun , and in a standard by it self rather than under a wall . These Rules being observed , we may expect to enjoy the full delight of these beautiful Roses , as I my self have often done by my own practice in divers Trees so handled , which have yearly born store of fair flowers , when those that were natural , notwithstanding all the helps I could use , have not brought forth one that was kindly , but all of them either broken , or as it were blasted .

Tell me what flow'r kind Nature doth disclose , May be compared to the lovely Rose ; Whose Beauty , Virtue , Scent , and Colours are In Life , in Death , in Bud and Blossom , rare . And if one kind these graces all comprise , What then in thirty choice varieties ? Friend , muse no more , nor reckon what else rare , Since all conclude the Rose without compare ; But wing thy thoughts to mount three stories higher , Up to his Throne that thus adorn'd the Briar .

And now after this long walk it will be time to retire , where we may sit in some shady Bower , and behold the several flower-bearing and climbing woody Plants , wherewith the same is covered and adorned , which with others of like nature , but more rarity , shall be the subjects of our next discourse .

CHAP. V.

HAving done with so many of the flower-bearing Trees and Shrubs as we intended for this place , we will treat of some other woody flower-bearing Plants , that ( being Climbers ) serve conveniently to cover Somer-bowers : and first we will begin with the Jasmines , whereof there are divers excellent varieties , most of them peculiar to such Countries , where the benignity of the Air and fertility of the Soil is agreeable with such delicate and tender Constitutions : and although we cannot expect such rare Plants to prosper in our cold Country , yet there are some of this kind contented to live with us ; with which and some others more tender , together with Wood-binds and Virgins-bower , this Chapter will acquaint you , and first with the most common .

Jasminum album .

THe white Jasmine hath divers green flexible branches , that come forth of the bigger boughs , which proceed from the root , set with winged leaves of a dark green colour , standing two together at the joynts , made of many small-pointed leaves set on each side of a middle rib , usually three on a side , and one bigger and more pointed at the end : at the tops of the young branches divers flowers come forth together in a tuft , each on a long foot-stalk , which are small , long and hollow , opening into fine white-pointed leaves , and of a strong sweet scent , which with us fall away without bringing seed .

Jasminum Catalonicum .

THe Catalonian or Spanish Jasmine riseth not half so high as the former , the branches and green leaves are like , but larger and shorter , the flowers are of the same fashion , but much bigger , and before they are open of a blush colour , and after white with blush edges , more sweet than those of the former .

Jasminum Hispanicum multiplex .

THe double Spanish Jasmine is in the manner of growing like unto the last , the greatest difference is in the flowers , which of this are white like the first , but bigger and double , consisting of two rows of leaves , with some smaller coming forth of the middle , or hollow bosoms of the flowers , which are as sweet as those of the former .

Jasminum luteum .

THe yellow Jasmine hath many long slender woody branches , rising from the root , set at distances with three small dark green leaves together , the middle or end-leaf being the biggest : at the joynts where the leaves come forth stand long stalks , bearing small long hollow flowers , ending in five , and sometimes six , yellow leaves : after the flowers are past , round black-shining berries succeed them ; the roots are tough and white , creeping in the ground , and coming up in divers places much increasing .

Jasminum Indicum flore phoeniceo .

THe Indian scarlet Jasmine , from a large spread root , consisting of many great fibres and smaller strings , cometh up one , two , or more flexible branches , not able to sustain themselves without the help of something to support them , putting forth at every joynt some small short tendrils , whereby it will strongly fasten unto any woody substance : at the joynts come forth two winged leaves , which are as large almost as Rose leaves , full of veins , and finely nicked on the sides , which most usually stand three on a side and one at the end , which are reddish at the first , but afterwards of a fair yellowish green colour ; the flowers come forth at the ends of the branches many together , which are long like a Fox-glove , opening at the ends into five fair broad leaves , like unto that of the Gentianella , with a stile and small threds in the middle , of a yellow or Saffron colour ; in some Plants the flowers have small red lines on the insides thereof , others of a deep dark scarlet colour , veined with small yellow lines .

These are the varieties of Jasmines growing in our English Gardens , unto which we will insert some other woody climbing flower-bearing Plants , which seem conveniently to cover and beautifie some Bowers , as

Periclimenum perfoliatum .

THe double Honisuckle , which is so common that it needeth no description , it is very fit to cover an Arbour in respect of the much spreading thereof , and the multitude of sweet flowers grow in five or six stories one above another , with round green leaves circling the stalk betwixt every roundle of flowers , which are of the form of the wilde Honisuckle , but fairer , yellower , and much sweeter .

Periclimenum Italicum flore rubro .

THe red Italian Honisuckle groweth something like the wilde kind , with such green leaves , but redder branches , spreading very much , so that two Plants ( one of the former and another of this ) are sufficient to cover a large Arbour : the flowers of this are very many , coming forth together in great tufts from the ends and sides of the red branches , which are longer and better formed than those of the other , which at first , before they are fully blowen , are wholly of a fine red colour , but afterwards more yellow about the ends , or upon part of the flowers , which make a gallant shew , and are of a sweet scent , but not so strong as the former .

Clematis peregrina flore rubro .

REd Virgins-bower hath many limber woody weak branches , covered with a brown thin outer bark , and green underneath , winding about any thing it can take hold of ; the leaves stand at the joynts , consisting of three parts , whereof some are notched on one side , and some on both ; the flowers come from the joynts upon long foot-stalks , which are made of four leaves standing like a cross , of a sullen dark-red or liver-colour : the roots are a bundle of browh strong strings , fastened to a head running deep in the ground .

Clematis peregrina flore purpureo .

PUrple Virgins-bower differeth nothing at all from the former , but onely in the colour of the flowers , those of this being of a sad heavy bluish purple .

Clematis peregrina flore pleno purpureo .

THe double purple Virgins-bower in all the parts thereof is like unto the former , but bigger and stronger ; the flowers are of the same colour with those of the last described , and exceeding thick and double , the outward leaves being broad like the former , and the inner narrow and folded close together , like a large button in the middle of the flower , which open by degrees , but so slowly ; that the outward leaves commonly fall away , before the other open or shew themselves , which is a great defect in this flower . I have heard of two others of this kind , which are said to grow in the Florists Gardens about Rome , bearing double flowers , the one of a bluish Peach-colour , and the other white .

Maracoc , sive Clematis Virginiana .

THe Virginian Climber riseth out of the ground in May , with many long round winding stalks , more or less according to the age and liking of the Plant , which will grow with us to be five , six , or more foot high ; from the joynts come forth the leaves , at each one , and from the middle to the top a small clasper , like that of the Vine , and a flower also ; the leaves are broad at the bottom , and about the middle divided into three parts , nicked about the edges ; the bud of the flower before it openeth is like unto the seed-vessel of the common single Nigilla , but longer , having at the top five crooked horns , which opening , this bud or head divideth it self into ten parts , susteining the leaves of the flower , which are very many , long , sharp-pointed , narrow , and orderly spread open one by another , some lying straight , others crooked ; these leaves are of a whitish colour , thick-spotted with a Peach colour , having towards the bottom a ring of a perfect Peach-colour , and above and beneath it a white circle , which addeth much to the beauty of the flower , in the midst whereof riseth an Umbrane , which parteth it self into four or five crooked spotted horns ; from the midst of these riseth another roundish head , which carries three nails or horns , biggest above and smallest at the lower end : never with us is this flower succeeded by any fruit , but in the West Indies ( its natural Countrey ) it beareth a fruit like unto a Pomegranate , from whence called there Granadilla , containing a whitish pulp , and many cornered rough black seeds , of the bigness of Pear-kernels : the roots are long , somewhat thicker than those of Sarsa Parilla , which run far in the earth , and put up heads in several places .

The Jasmines bring forth their flowers from July untill the middle of August ; the first white , and the common yellow are hardy , and will endure our cold Winters , and increase fast enough by Suckers , but the Indian yellow is tender , and not so easily raised ; this and the Spanish , both sorts must be planted in Pots , Tubs , or Boxes , that they may be housed in Winter : with us they are usually encreased ( especially the Spanish kinds ) by grafting them late in the Spring the Approch-way , upon the stock of the common white Jasmine ; the other Indian Jasmine flowereth about August , and will endure the Winter if it be defended in its nonage , but older Plants are hardy enough , and may be encreased by Layers ; those which I have I raised from seeds which came from Virginia .

The double Wood-bind flowereth in May , and the red in the end of June : there is nothing more easily increased , for every branch of either of them will take root if it but touch the ground , much more if it be laid artificially therein : the chief use of these and the common white Jasmine , is to cover Arbours , or adorn the walls of houses .

Clematis or Virgins-bower , the several kinds thereof will be in flower most part of July and August , they grow well with us , and endure long , easily increased by laying the branches : these are commonly used to cover Arbours , for which purpose they fitly serve ; but many of the young and small branches are apt to die in Winter , which must be pruned in March , and the nearer they are cut , the fairer the flowers will be in Somer following .

The Maracoc bringeth forth his beautiful flowers in August , and is more tender than the other ; the stalks die to the ground every Winter , and spring again from the roots in May , which must be covered and defended from extreme hard frosts in Winter ; the roots run far , and come up in divers places , whereby it may be much increased : we usually plant them in large Pots , in the richest Earth we can get , which will stop the running of the roots , be conveniently removed into a house in Winter , and into the Sun in Somer ; for unless it stand in some hot place , and the Somer be according , it will not bear at all ; therefore to help it forward , many with good success set the Pot with this Plant up to the top in a Hot bed , where Melons or choice Annuals have been sowed , as soon as they are taken off or removed .

CHAP. VI.

HAving passed through those greater woody flower-bearing Trees , Shrubs , and Plants , we will proceed to some lesser , whose stalks like the last die to the ground in Winter , and rise again from the roots at the Spring ; and then conclude with some small woody Plants , that for the beauty of their flowers are preserved in our choicest Gardens .

Fraxinella flore rubente .

BAstard Dittany with a reddish flower riseth up with divers round hard woody brownish stalks , about two foot high , the lower parts whereof are furnished with many winged leaves , resembling those of Liquorish , or of a young Ash , consisting of seven , nine , or eleven set together , somewhat large and long , finely purled about the edges , of a sad green colour , and strong resinous scent ; the upper part of the stalks are furnished with many flowers , growing in a spike at distances one above another , each containing five long leaves , whereof four stand on the two sides bending upwards , the fifth hanging down , turning up again the end , of a faint or pale red colour , striped through every leaf with a deeper red , having a tassel in the middle made of five or six long purplish threds , that bow down with the lower leaf , and turn up the ends again , with a little freeze or thrum at the ends of each of them : the flowers are succeeded by hard stiff clammy husks , horned or pointed at the ends , something like those of the Columbine , but bigger , rougher , and harder , wherein is contained round shining black seeds : the root is white , very large and spreading under ground ; the whole Plant throughout all the parts thereof hath that strong resinous scent , not so pleasant to the Nose , as the flowers are delightful to the Eye .

Fraxinella flore rubro .

BAstard Dittany with a red flower differeth from the former , in that it is bigger in all the parts thereof , the leaves of a darker green colour , the flowers grow in a longer spike , and of a deeper red colour ; of this kind there is another raised from the seeds of this , whose flowers grow thicker on the stalk than any other kind , and are of a deep bloudy red colour .

Flaxinella flore albo .

BAstard Dittany with a white flower hath the leaves and stalks of a fresher green colour than any of the former , and the flowers white , and not altogether so big , in no other thing differing from the former .

Fraxinella flore albo caeruleo .

BAstard Dittany with an Ash-coloured flower differeth onely from the last in the colour of the flowers , those of this being of a pale blue or Ash colour : there is also another variety of this , raised from the seeds of this kind , which is lesser in all the parts thereof than any of the other , and the flowers are of a bleak blue colour , striped with a deeper blue or violet colour .

Having now done with the varieties of the stately , though strong-scented Fraxinella , we will conclude with a kind or two of sweet-smelling Cistus , leaving the many other diversities to their natural habitations , being Plants so tender , that the trouble in keeping them would be more than the pleasure of having them .

Cistus mas .

THe male Cistus is a small shrubby Plant , growing with us about three or four foot high , having many slender brittle woody branches , covered with a whitish bark , whereon are set many long and something narrow whitish green leaves , crumpled and something hard in handling , two standing at every joynt ; the flowers come forth at the ends of the branches , three or four together upon slender foot-stalks , each consisting of five small round leaves , like unto a small single Rose , of a fine reddish purple colour , with many yellow threds in the middle , which soon fall away , and are succeeded by round hard hairy heads , containing small brown seeds .

Cistus Ledon .

THe Gum Cistus riseth higher and spreadeth more than the former , with many blackish woody branches , whereon are set divers long narrow dark green leaves , but whiter on the backsides , standing two together at every joynt ; the stalk and leaves being bedewed with a clammy sweet moisture , but much more in hot Countries than in ours , which being artificially taken off , is that black sweet Gum called Ladanum : at the tops of the branches stand single white flowers , larger than those of the former , like single Roses with five leaves , each having at the bottom a dark purplish spot , broad below and pointed upwards , with some yellow threds in the middle ; after the flowers are past , cornered heads succeed , wherein is contained small brownish seeds , like those of the former .

The Fraxinella's are in flower about the end of June , and continue most of July ; the seed is ready to gather about the end of August , which will ( by the springing of the Pods ) be all lost , unless care be taken to prevent it . This is a hardy Plant , and will endure many years without removing , and yield many new Plants ; which in the beginning of March may be taken from the old root : they are also raised from seeds sowed in rich earth as soon as the frosts are past in February , from whence varieties may be raised , especially from those of the deep red , the white , and the Ash colour .

The Cistus is raised from seeds , and the Plants housed in Winter , for they will not endure the cold air .

CHAP. VII .

HAving now done with all such Greens , Flower-bearing Trees , Shrubs , and woody Plants , that are of most beauty and esteem , we will proceed to Flowers , beginning with those vulgarly called French Flowers , which are such as have either Scaly , Bulbous , Grumous , or Tuberous roots , from whence the Leaves , Stalks , and Flowers do yearly spring , most of them dying even to the very roots shortly after their flowering : and first of Lilies and their kinds , whereof there are many diversities , the Martagons being of the same family , out of all which I shall cull the best , and purposely omit the rest as Vulgars , not worthy entertainment : the Crown Imperial is also a kind of Lily , which although it be common and of small regard , yet to follow the example of divers good Florists , and to make way for some newer and nobler kinds thereof than were formerly known , we will begin this Chapter of Lilies and Martagons therewith , and so pass to the rest in order .

Corona Imperialis .

THe Crown Imperial hath a great round Fox-scented root , from whence springeth up a tall and strong stalk , garnished from the ground unto the middle thereof , with many long shining green leaves , from whence it is naked upwards , bearing at the top a tuft of small green leaves , and under them eight or ten flowers , according to the age of the Plant , hanging down round about the stalk , in fashion like unto a Lily , consisting of six leaves , of an Orenge colour , with many veins of a deeper colour on the backsides of the flowers ; next the stalks every leaf thereof hath a bunch or eminence of a sadder Orenge colour than the rest of the flowers , and on the inside those bunches are filled with sweet-tasted clear drops of water , like unto Pearls , each flower having in the middle a stile compassed with six white chives tipt with yellow pendents .

Corona Imperialis flore multiplici .

THe double Crown Imperial is of later discovery and more esteem than the former , and chiefly differeth from it in the flowers , which in this are constantly double , each flower containing fifteen or sixteen leaves , whereas those of the other common kind have but six ; the leaves of these double flowers are narrower , with a drop or Pearl at the head of each of them , of the same colour with those of the common kind , and as many flowers on one stalk . The plant at first coming up is redder , and contineth longer so than the ordinary : The green leaves of darker colour , and the tuft on the top above the flowers , bigger , and consisting commonly of more leaves . This is a gallant plant , deserving esteem , although the other is now little regarded .

Corona Imperialis flore luteo .

THe yellow Crown Imperial differeth only from the first common kinde , in that the flowers are of a fair yellow colour , and now more rare than that with double flowers .

Corona Imperialis angustifolia flore rubente .

THe narrow-leaved Crown Imperial , with a reddish flower , differeth from the other single kinds , in that the leaves are much narrower , the flowers smaller and of a light red or pale Rose-colour .

Lilium Persicum .

THe Persian Lily hath a root like unto that of the Crown Imperial , but longer , smaller , and whiter , from whence springeth up a round whitish green stalk , beset from the bottom to the middle thereof with many long and narrow whitish green leaves ; from whence to the top stand many small flowers , hanging down their heads , each containing six leaves , of a dead or over-worn purple colour , with a pointill and chives in the middle , tipt with yellow pendents .

The Crown Imperial flowereth in the end of March , or beginning of April , and the Persian Lily , almost a moneth after it , they are both increased by assets that come from the old roots , which lose their fibres every year , and therefore they may be taken up after the stalks are drie , which will be in June , and kept out of the ground untill August ; they may be set in borders , or corners of large knots , among ordinary Tulips , and other flowers that lose their fibres , that they may be taken up together ; the Crown Imperial , especially that with double flowers , is an excellent ornament in the middle of a large Flower-pot , among Daffodills , Tulips , Anemonies , Hyacinthes , and other flowers of that season ; the Persian Lily is a flower of small beauty , and onely received for variety , the dull and heavy colour serving to set off , and cause others to seem the more glorious .

Lilium Rubrum .

THe red Lily is a vulgar flower , and many sorts thereof common in every Country-womans Garden , the which are seldom accepted by any Florists . There are three other kinds which are of some regard , in respect they bear fairer flowers than any of the other common sorts ; we will insert those only , and pass over the rest as regardless plebeans not worth mentioning .

Lilium Cruentum bulbiferum .

THe fiery red bulbed Lily riseth up from a great white scaly root ( as all the Lilies have ) with a strong tall stalk , set with many long dark-green leaves , and at the top adorned with many fair large flowers , each composed of six broad thick leaves , of a fiery red colour at the tops , and towards the bottoms of an Orenge-colour , with small black specks , bearing among the flowers , and along the stalk , divers bulbes like little roots , which being set , in time will bring forth flowers like unto those of the original .

Lilium Rubrum flore pleno .

THe double red Lily , is like unto the former , in root , stalk and leaves , but without bulbes , not so big nor of so dark a green colour ; it commonly beareth many Orenge-coloured single flowers on one stalk , with many small brown specks on the insides thereof , and some times but one fair double flower , as if the leaves of many flowers were united in one , which although it be but accidental , yet it hapneth in this kind more frequently than in any other red Lily ; for if you have many roots of this sort , you will always have some double flowers , and many more in some years than in others .

Lilium Luteum .

THe yellow Lily is like the last double Lily , but taller and bigger , the flowers are many on one stalk , and wholly of a fine Gold-yellow colour ; this is more esteemed than any of the former .

Lilium Album .

THe white Lily affordeth three diversities , two besides the common kinde , which are of more estimation than any of the red Lilies , and for the beauty of the one , and rarity of the other , deserve to be regarded .

Lilium Album vulgare .

THe common white Lily is so well known , that it needeth no description ; it hath a scaly root , bigger and yellower than those of the red Lily ; the stalk is tall , the leaves broad and long , of a fresh green colour ; the flowers are six or eight on one stalk , in an old plant , but fewer in the younger ; which in fashion are like those of the former , but turning back the points of the leaves , which are of an excellent pure white colour , with a pointell and white chives in the middle , tipt with yellow pendents .

Lilium Album Byzantinum .

THe white Lily of Constantinople differeth from the common white Lily in that it is smaller in all the parts thereof , and beareth more flowers , usually twenty , or thirty on one stalk , which many times will come flat and broad , with a hundred or more flowers thereon , like unto those of the common kinde , but smaller .

Lilium Album flore pleno .

THe double white Lily is in all things like unto the common kinde , the flowers onely excepted , which in this are usually five or six on one stalk , and all of them constantly double , consisting of many small long white leaves , which grow on the foot-stalks one above another , forming a long double flower , the leaves of them are long green , before they open or turn white , and unless the season be very fair , they never open at all ; this is esteemed for the rarity of the double flowers , more than for any beauty that is in them .

Martagon .

THe mountain Lily or Martagon is next to be described , whereof there is some diversity ; they are divided into two primary kinds , that is those that bear broad green leaves in rundles about the stalks at distances , the which are called mountain Lilies ; and others that bear narrow long green leaves , sparsedly set on the stalks , in some bigger , and in others smaller , out of which we will collect the best , and describe them in order .

Martagon Imperiale , sive Lilium montanum majus .

THe Martagon Imperial hath , as all the Martagons have , a scaly pale yellow root ; the stalk riseth a yard high , of a brownish colour , beset at certain distances with Caudles of broad green leaves , and naked betwixt ; at the top of the stalk come forth , in an old plant , fourscore or a hundred flowers , thick set together , each on a several foot-stalk , hanging down their heads and turning the leaves back again , as all Martagons do , which are thick and fleshy , of a pale purple colour , with brown spots on the inside , a stile in the middle , with six yellow chives tipt with Vermillion pendents .

Martagon flore Albo.

THe white Martagon differeth from the former , in that the stalk is greener , the flowers fewer , and not so thick set on the stalk , and are in this , of a white colour with yellow pendents .

Martagon flore albo maculato .

THe white spotted Martagon is very like the last in manner of growing , only the stalk is brown , and the flowers inclining to a blush colour , with many red spots on the insides thereof , in no other respect differing from the former .

There are some other varieties of the Martagons or mountain Lilies kept in vulgar Gardens , which are not worth the mentioning , these three sorts being the most acceptable .

Martagon Canadense maculatum .

THe spotted Martagon of Canada may serve to bring up the rear , and follow the mountain Lilies , for that the green leaves grow on the stalk in rundles ; the root of this stranger is smaller , and the stalk lower than any of the former , bearing four or five flowers on long foot-stalks , in form like a red Lily , hanging down their heads , of a fair yellow colour , with many black spots on the inside , a pointell and six chives tipt with red pendents .

Martagon Constantinopolitanum .

THe Martagon of Constantinople hath a great yellowish scaly root , from whence springeth up a brownish stalk , beset confusedly with many something large round pointed green leaves ; on the top of the stalk come forth three , four , or more flowers , on long foot-stalks , hanging down their heads , and turning the leaves back again , which are of a fair Orenge-colour , deeper in some than in others , with a pointell and six chives tipt with yellow pendents ; this is common in every ordinary Garden , and had not been here inserted , but to make way for a better kinde thereof .

Martagon Constantinopolitanum maculatum .

THe red spotted Martagon of Constantinople differeth from the other , in that the flowers are larger , more on a stalk , of a deeper Orenge , or Scarlet colour , and thick specled on the inside , with many small black spots , which addeth very much to the beauty of the flower .

Martagon Panonicum .

THe Martagon of Hungary is like the last in root , leaves , and form of flowers , onely the leaves are larger , and thinner set on the stalks , the flowers much bigger , and of a bright pale Orenge-colour ; this as it is the rarest of all the Martagons , so is it the hardest to come by .

Martagon Virginianum .

THe Virginian Martagon hath a close compacted , round , scaly , pale , yellow root , from the sides whereof , more frequently than the top , come forth the stalks about three foot high , sparsedly set with whittish green leaves , bearing at the head three , four , or more something large flowers , turning back like that of Constantinople , of a Gold yellow colour , with many brown spots about the bottoms of the flowers , with the points or ends of the leaves that turn up , of a red or Scarlet colour , and without spots ; this is a tender Plant and must be defended from Frost in Winter ; there is another of this kind that beareth more flowers on one stalk ; differing from the former , in that these are of pale colours but spotted as the other .

Martagon Pomponium .

THe Martagon of Pompony hath a great yellowish , brown , scaly root , from whence springeth up a green stalk , two or three foot high , promiscuously thick set with many small , long , green leaves almost to the top , where stand many flowers , in number according to the age of the Plant ; for in some that have stood long unremoved , I have had fourscore or an hundred flowers on one stalk , which are of a yellowish Orenge-colour , with small black specks on the inside thereof , in fashion like to the red Martagon of Constantinople , but smaller ; there is some variety in this Plant , for some of them have broader and shorter green leaves than others ; and there are others that flower a fortnight after the most common , and best known of this kinde .

Martagon Luteum punctatum .

THe yellow spotted Martagon hath a great scaly root like that of the last , but bigger ; the stalk riseth up in the same manner with broader green leaves , the flowers also are of the same size and fashion , but of a pale , greenish , yellow colour , with many black specks on the inside thereof , and not so many on one stalk as the former .

Martagon luteum non punctatum .

THe yellow Martagon without spots differeth onely from the other , in that the flowers of this are all of that pale , greenish , yellow colour , without any specks or marks ; these yellow Martagons for variety may be admitted , and were they as pleasing to the scent , as they are to the sight , would be of more esteem than now they are ; there is one other variety of this yellow Martagon , which differeth only in the time of the flowering , which is not untill July , and in that the flowers are of a fairer and deeper yellow colour .

All these Lilies , and most of the Martagons , flower in June ; that of Pompony is the earliest , which flowereth towards the end of May ; those of Constantinople are later , as about the end of June or beginning of July ; and that of Virginia the last of them all , whose time of flowering is in August .

They are all increased by the roots too fast , being strong and hardy Plants , except that of Canada and that of Virginia , both which are very tender and unapt to thrive or live at all in our Country ; the roots of all the other hold their Fibres , and therefore do not affect to be often removed , which when there is occasion to do , the best time is as soon as the stalks are fully dry , for then they will have fewest Fibres ; these scaly roots must be set reasonable deep , four or five inches over the head in the earth , which every other year should be opened down to the bottoms of them , not hurting or stirring any of the Fibres , and all the off-sets and young roots taken away , the mother root only left , unto which some richer earth may be then conveniently put before it be covered , by this means the flowers of the old root will be fairer , and many more on one stalk , the ground not pestered , and new Plants gained .

As for these tender Martagons of Canada and Virginia , they will not endure to stand abroad , but must be planted in the richest and hotest earth can be gotten , in Boxes or large Pots , and set in some Seller in the Winter where they may not Freez .

CHAP. VIII .

Fritillaria .

THe Fritillary , and the varieties thereof are next to be described , the which may be divided into two distinct kinds ; the first those with small roots , sharp-pointed green leaves and large flowers ; and the other with bigger roots , round pointed whiter green leaves , and different fashioned smaller flowers ; of each kinde there are several sorts and diversities ; we will begin with the first , and first of that best known .

Fritillaria vulgaris .

THe common checquered Fritillary hath a small round white root , made of two pieces , as if it were cleft in the midst , out of which cleft the stalk springeth a foot high , or more , with some few leaves thereon dispersed ; at the top thereof out of a tuft of four or five hollow long green sharp-pointed leaves cometh the flower , hanging down the head like to that of the ordinary Crown Imperial , consisting of six leaves of a sullen reddish purple colour , checquered with a deeper purple ; the inside of the flower is of a brighter colour than the outside , with a stile and six chives tipt with yellow pendents : after the flower is fallen , the stile ( which is the seed-vessel ) standeth upright , and containeth flat gristly seeds ; like unto that of a Tulip , but lesser . The old roots of this sort will bring two and three flowers on one stalk , and the seeds diversities , some paler and some brighter than others , and some flowering in March , a moneth before others .

Fritillaria flore duplici albicante .

THe double blush Fritillary is in all the parts thereof like the former , onely the flower is double , consisting of twelve leaves or more , of a pale purple or blush colour , spotted as the other ; this is not accidental but natural , and is constantly double .

Fritillaria alba .

THe white Fritillary differeth chiefly from the first , in that the leaves and stalk are greener , and the flower white ; the seeds of this being sowed bringeth varieties , some flowering a moneth before others , some bearing larger flowers , and some two on one stalk .

Fritillaria flore luteo .

THe yellow Fritillary is in all things like the last , onely the flower of this on the outside as well as inside is of a perfect yellow colour .

Fritillaria flore atro rubente .

THe dark red Fritillary hath green leaves , whiter , broader , and shorter than the former ; the flower is larger , of a dusky red colour on the outside , and bloud-red on the inside , which falls away sooner than those of the other sorts ; and this is that the Walloons have lately brought over , which they call the black Fritillary ; a flower of small beauty , and less continuance .

Fritillaria maxima rubra .

THe great red Fritillary is in all the parts thereof like unto the last described , but bigger ; the flowers also are larger , of a dark red colour , usually two or three upon one stalk ; a much better flower than the last , but almost as soon decaying . These are the varieties of the first kind of Fritillaries , and now we will proceed to describe those of the other sort .

Fritillaria flore luteo major .

THe greater yellow Fritillary hath a bigger and broader root than any of the former ; the leaves are broader , shorter , and round-pointed , the stalk about two foot high , and of a whiter green colour than those of the former ; the flower is long , small , and of a faint yellow colour .

Fritillaria flore luteo punctato .

THe spotted yellow Fritillary hath round-pointed whitish green leaves , like the last ; the flower is bigger and longer than any of the former , of a pale yellow colour , diversly spotted and checquered , which addeth much to the beauty thereof .

Fritillaria lutea maxima Italica .

THe great yellow Italian Fritillary hath darker green leaves than the former , the flower longer , and of a dark yellowish purple colour , spotted with small red checquers ; this is that which hath been lately brought unto us out of Flanders , by the name of the Isabella-coloured Fritillary .

Fritillaria Italica flore luteo viridi .

THe small Italian yellowish green Fritillary is like the last , but smaller ; the flowers are small and long , two or three on one stalk , and turn up the brims of the leaves , which are of a yellowish green colour , spotted with purple , little respected for that the smell thereof is very offensive .

Fritillaria angustifolia exotica viridi albicante multiplex .

THe exotick narrow-leaved Fritillary with a whitish green double flower is of more rarity than the former ; it hath a tall stalk , narrow green leaves , and a large short double flower , of a sullen whitish green colour .

Fritillaria lutea juncifolia Lusitanica .

THe small yellow Fritillary of Portugal hath smaller and shorter round-pointed leaves than any of the former ; the flower is also small , of a yellow colour , more spotted and checquered than any of the yellow Fritillaries .

Fritillaria Pyrenaea .

THe black Fritillary is in all things like the yellowish green , but that the stalk and flowers are shorter than those of the last , and of a dark sullen blackish green colour .

Fritillaria Hispanica umbellifera .

The Spanish black Fritillary only differeth from the last , in that it is bigger , and beareth four or five flowers hanging round about the stalk , like those of the Crown Imperial .

The early kinds of Fritillaries do flower about the end of March or beginning of April , the other after those are past , for the space of a moneth one after another ; the great yellow is the last , whose time of flowering is in the end of May.

The roots lose their fibres as soon as the stalks are dry , and may then , or any time before the middle of August , be taken up and kept dry for some time , but if taken up too soon , or kept too long out of ground , will either perish or be much weakened thereby ; therefore take them not up before the middle of July , nor keep them out of the ground after the beginning of August ; they may be set among ordinary Tulips , and other roots that lose their fibres , in the beds of a Knot or Fret , where the nakedness of the stalks ( especially of those of the first kind ) may be covered with the leaves of others .

Doubtless many more diversities of these Fritillaries may be raised from the seeds of the best kinds , being sowed , preserved , and ordered in the same manner as those of Tulips , few particulars needing exception either in this , or in any other bulbous-rooted Plant that loseth the fibres ; wherefore those that desire to practise the sowing of such seeds , I refer to the general directions in the end of the Chapter of Tulips , where they will meet with ample satisfaction therein .

CHAP. IX .

Tulipa .

THe Tulip is a flower well known , especially the more common kinds thereof , but there are many noble varieties , whose faces , as few are acquainted with , as with their excellent qualities ; these are those lovely Lilies , whose bravery excelled Solomon in his greatest lustre , Flora's choicest Jewels , and the most glorious ornaments of the best Gardens , transferable favours from one Florist to another , aptly conveyable ( the season considered ) many miles distant .

And as these stately Flowers are esteemed , so are they valued , one root being usually sold with us at all prices , from a penny ( I may say with modesty ) to five pounds ; but in other Countries where Flowers are more affected , at far higher rates . Such is their rarity and excellence , and so numerous are the varieties , that it is not possible any one person in the world should be able to express , or comprehend the half of them , every Spring discovering many new diversities , never before observed , either arising from the Seeds of some choice kinds , the altering of off-sets , or by the busie and secret working of Nature upon several self-colours , in different soils and situations , together with the help of Art : Of all which plentifully in the end of this Chapter .

The division of Tulips according to Gerard , Parkinson , Clusius , and Ferrarius , is into three sorts , Praecoces , Medias , and Seretinas , early , middle , and late flowering Tulips , whereas indeed there are but two primary distinct kinds , Praecoces , and Serotinas ; these having other notable differences , besides their time of flowering , which from the first to the last , is as distant in the Praecoces , as that of those called Medias to the Serotinas ; so according to their rule , we might as well divide the early as the later , and so make four sorts out of two ; yet not to be thought singular , I shall not alter the old method , but set down a plentiful variety of each , under such names as they are generally received and known by , written after the English fashion , that persons unexpert in the Orthography of Forein Languages , may be able to write and pronounce them ; beginning with the best known and more ordinary sorts , and so proceed to better .

The greatest difference of Tulips is in the flowers , as the diversity of colour , manner of marking , bottoms , chives or Tamis , bigness , fashion , and manner of growing ; the which after one general description of the whole Plant , shall be particularly expressed , whereby each flower by name and face may be known and distinguished .

Tulipa praecox , media , & serotina .

THe early , middle , and later flowering Tulip , springeth out of the ground , with leaves folded one within another , which opening by degrees become broad , thick , long and hollow , turning up the edges , and holding water falling thereon ; they are commonly three in number , but sometimes in old-rooted Plants four or five , of a whitish green colour , with whiter edges , especially in those of the Praecoces , whereby they may be known from the other sorts , whose leaves are of a fresher green ; the stalk with the flower cometh up in the middle of the leaves , which do rise therewith , and compass it at certain unequal distances ; many of the Praecoces bending to the ground , but before they flower , drawn by the Sun , stand upright as all the rest do ; the stalks of the Praecoces are commonly not above a foot high , and many of them much lower , but those of the Medias and Serotinas far higher : they all bear usually but one flower on a stalk , which standeth upright , in fashion like unto a Lily , composed of six leaves , green at the first and closed , which warmed by the Sun , open and change into divers several glorious colours , variously mixed , edged , striped , feathered , garded , agotted , marbled , flaked , or specled , even to admiration ; the leaves of some of them being round pointed , of others sharp , and in some three of one fashion and three of the other : The colour of the bottoms and Tamis , especially in the Mediums and Serotinas , doth also notably differ from each other ; for in some they will be white , yellow , or straw-colour ; and in others blew , black , or purple , deeper or lighter ; some of these flowers are sweeter than others , and many of them have little or no scent at all : in the middle of the flower standeth a long green head , commonly three square ( which is the Seed-vessel ) compassed about with six chives , tipt with pendents ( which are those after the French we call Tamis ) in colour usually answerable to that of the bottom , which often changeth ; for when a red , or purple flower , with a blew , or other dark-coloured bottom and Tamis marketh well with white , the bottom will be white also , the bottom running up into the leaves , which is a prime cause of the well marking thereof , but the Tamis remain without alteration , whereby the flower may be known through all the various mutations thereof , the rule holding certain in most of the best flowers . After the leaves of the flower are faln , the head or Seed-vessel groweth biger , rounder , and longer , containing usually six rows of flat , thin , brown , gristly Seed . The roots are some rounder and bigger than others , sharp at the upper end ; and in those roots that will bear flowers , either forked , or shewing two points to put forth two leaves , but in such as will not bear , but one : the bottom is big and round , with a little woolly eminence on the one side thereof , from whence the Fibres come forth ; on the other side in such roots as have born flowers , there is a hollow chanel where the stalk grew , which yearly shifteth from side to side , arising immediately from that eminence which is in the bottom of every root , but more in some than others . These roots are composed of several thick skins , folded within each other , and covered with a thin brown Coat , which is every year renewed , and the old cast off .

And now having done with the general , we will proceed to a more particular description ; and first of the Praecoces , or early flowering Tulips , the varieties whereof are chiefly of two sorts or manners ; those of the first or more common rank , are called Edgers , and are either Red , Carnation , Crimson , or Scarlet , deeper or lighter , with yellow , straw-colour , or white edges , or else sadder or paler violet , graydeline , or murey-purple , with greater or lesser white edges ; of these there are a multitude of diversities , but most of them now little esteemed ; we will therefore set down some few of the best , and then give you a more plentiful variety of those of the other and better sort , which although they are of the same , or like colours with the former , yet notably differ in manner of marking , these being either striped , feathered , garded , or variably marbled , with two or more colours in each flower , as by the following descriptions is expressed ; but first of the Edgers .

Praecoces , early flowering Tulips .

THe Winter Duke , so called , in respect it flowereth commonly in Winter , that is before the tenth of March , at which time the Spring beginneth ; it hath a very low stalk , and beareth a short leaved-flower , of a deep red colour , with large yellow edges , a round yellow bottom , and brown Tamis .

General Duke flowereth later , and is a fairer and better flower , of a bright red or Cherry-colour , with large and well divided yellow edges , the bottom and Tamis like the former ; there are divers sorts of Dukes , some deeper , others paler , but all of them are red , with yellow edges , whereof these two are esteemed the best .

General Brancion is a strong upright flower , of a bright Scarlet-colour , with even and well-parted butter-colour edges , which before the leaves fall turn white ; the bottom of the colour of the edges , and the Tamis purple .

Pretty Betty is also a good Edger , the flower is of a bright Crimson , with pale butter-coloured edges , which soon turn white ; it hath a star-pointed bottom , of the colour of the edges , and blew Tamis .

Dutches Brancion is a fair large flower , with long round-pointed leaves , of a deep shining Scarlet-colour , with deep butter-colour edges ; the bottom large , round , and pale yellow , with Tamis of the same colour .

Lac Verine is an early flower , and ranked with the best Edgers , of a fine blewish-red colour , with large and well-parted pure white edges , the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Violet Ratgans is a reasonable tall flower , with a woolly-stalk , and sharp-pointed leaves , of a violet-purple colour , with large Snow-white edges , the bottom and Tamis both yellow .

Violet de Remow , or purpur lisse , groweth taller than the last , with a smooth stalk and fair large flower , of a rich violet-purple colour , with large and well-divided Snow-white edges , a white bottom and black Tamis .

Palto van Leyden is fittest to be the first of the feathered and varigated kinds , in respect of antiquity and colours , which are red and yellow ; in the younger roots well-placed , feathered , and striped , but commonly the flowers of the old roots are more yellow than red , and often all yellow , as the bottom and Tamis are .

Florisante is a low flower , most of a pale hors-flesh colour , finely varigated and marked , with some crimson , and at first pale yellow , which after turns white ; it is a little apt to run , that is , in one or two hot days the colours to slubber , and run one into the other , which takes away the beauty of the flower ; the bottom and Tamis are both blew .

Religious is a strong healthy flower , of a dark-red colour , with many small stripes of white , but commonly the red hath the mastery , and if the season be hot , will soon run over the white ; the bottom is pale yellow , with dusty brown Tamis .

Blindenburg is a middle sized flower , the tops of the leaves of the colour of a Pease-blossom , and the sides from the middle to the bottom white , with yellow Tamis .

Non such petits late is of the size and fashion of the last , the flower is of a pale-blush almost white , pretily marked with many small stripes and specks , of Orenge-tawny ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

The Corn heart is a small low flower , carnation , striped , and marked with white , but seldom enough white ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow , as in most of the early Tulips .

Admiral Crinki is in all things like the Corn heart , but more constantly well marked with white .

General Molswick is of the same family with the two last , of the same colours , but much better marked than either of the former .

Cleremont , in the manner of growing , is like the Religious , the stalk strong , and the flower large , sometimes pretily marked with deep carnation and white ; the bottom and Tamis both yellow .

Paragon Cleremont in the manner of growing is like the last , but much a better flower , more constantly marked with white , upon a bright blewish carnation ; this is more esteemed than the former , by all that have both kinds , for though the first be in many hands , this is not truely so , for it is a trick much used by those that sell flowers about London , to add Paragon to the name of any common flower when it comes well marked , and then impose a treble price .

Admiral Encusen hath a weak stalk , and small flower , with sharp-pointed leaves , tipt with crimson , and feathered with white ; the bottom white , with pale yellow nails and Tamis .

Morillion Cramosine is an excellent flower , much more esteemed than any of the former ; it is of fine bright crimson and pure white , finely striped , spotted and well parted , the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

The Noble hath the flowers much better marked with crimson and white , in bearing of Sets and young roots than in the old , whose flowers ( though larger ) are little marked with white , scarce appearing to be the parents to so beautiful children ; the bottom and Tamis are both pale yellow .

Aurora , or Grenseg , is another good flower , of a rich carnation colour , well striped and marked with white , the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

The early perfect grows something taller , the flower fine crimson and white .

Perishot is a strong flower , of a fair shining , blewish-red colour ; sometimes well marked with greater and lesser stripes of white throughout every leaf , but if the red have the mastery , it will quickly run all over the flower ; the bottom is white , and the Tamis pale yellow .

Princess , or la bella Princess is something like the last , but of a more blewish-red colour , sometimes well striped and feathered with white , the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Fair Ann is an upright flower , in shape like the Cleremont , with round-pointed leaves , marked with great flakes of white , and Claret-wine colour , the bottom white , with pale yellow Tamis .

The Omen , or Nuino , as some call it , is the last flower of any of the Praecoces , it hath a strong upright stalk , the flower fair , large , and well formed , of a pale Rose-colour , with many veins and marks of crimson , circling , and garding , great stripes of white ; the bottom and Tamis both blew , which is seldom found in a Precox .

The Marques is a flower of small beauty , respected onely for the strangeness of the colours , which in this are sad horse-flesh , dark yellow , and some small veins of red , confusedly placed ; the bottom and Tamis both yellow .

Vice-Roy is an old Flower , of a violet purple colour , edged , feathered , and striped with white , the bottom and Tamis of a greenish yellow colour ; to the name of this flower Paragon is often added , as if it were a distinct kind , when it is but the same better marked than usual .

Galatea is a fine flower , of a bright gredeline , stripped with white , the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Maria is also a pretty flower , of a pale gredeline , well striped and marked with white , the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

The Superintendent is now the most esteemed of all the early Tulips , it riseth higher than ordinarily others do ; the flower is fair and large , excellently marked with violet purple and good white , the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Medias , or Middle flowering Tulips .

THe Swish of Portugal is a tall , large , long-leaved flower , of a rich Crimson colour , with some marks about the edges of the leaves of a deep red , striped with great gards and lists of straw-colour through every leaf thereof , with a large round yellow bottom , and straw-coloured Tamis . There are several sorts of Swishes , but this is the best , the other are lesser flowers , the colours not so good , nor so well placed .

Munera is a flower of a middle size , the leaves sharp-pointed , of a bright crimson colour , finely spotted , and marked with small stripes and drops of pale yellow ; the bottom and Tamis straw-colour .

Semper Augustus , heretofore of much esteem , hath a flower not very large , but well veined and striped with deep crimson and pale yellow ; the bottom and Tamis dark-violet purple .

The Prince of Orange is of a good Orenge-colour , striped with yellow , of which colour the bottom and Tamis are .

General Essex is of the same colours of the former , but the Orenge deeper , the yellow paler , and more constantly well-marked ; the bottom and Tamis dark-purple , almost black .

Pluto is a dark sullen Flower , of a sutty Orenge-colour , variably marked with darker , and lighter yellow ; a sad-greenish bottom and blewish Tamis .

Pass Oudinard is an old Flower , of a sad reddish-colour , sometimes well marked with brighter red and straw-colour ; it is common and unconstant , and so little esteemed ; the bottom and Tamis both blew .

Paragon Oudinard Vam Bole is in all things like the last , onely the colours are brighter , more constantly well placed , and in some years will come so well marked , that few rich Flowers excell it ; the bottom and Tamis both blew .

Agot Morine , when it comes well is a pretty Flower , of a dark reddish-colour , variably marked with sad Isabella and straw-colour ; the bottom and Tamis dark-purple .

Agot Robine is a long leaved old Flower , of a sullen reddish-colour , with some flakes and marks of an over-worn Dove-colour , with a whitish bottom and black Tamis .

Agot Robine paragon , or Robinet , is like the last , but much better , of the same sad-red colour , often well marked with Dove-colour , crimson and white ; the bottom and Tamis like the last .

The white Agot is like the last , but a lesser Flower , Dove-colour , well marked with deep red , inclining to murrey and white , the bottom and Tamis blew .

Tudart , or Toundurt , is like the Agot Robine , of a heavy dull-reddish colour , the leaves edged with a smoaky Dove-colour , and sometimes a little marked with white , the bottom and Tamis black .

Jaspar Tudart , is a larger Flower , of a brighter red than the last , some Dove-colour and much white ; bottom and Tamis black .

Royal Tudart , or the Lady Wottons Tudart , is better than either of the two former ; the Flower is of a sad red colour , whipt about the edges with crimson , and stripped with pale yellow , the bottom and Tamis black .

Harvy is a large variable Flower , but sometimes it will be of a dark-purplish red colour , with great flames of deep shining crimson , and small stripes of white ; the bottom and Tamis dark purple .

Admiral Vander Pool is of a dark red , inclining to liver-colour , feathered and marked with pale yellow , which one hot day turns white , the bottom and Tamis white ; this is a pretty Flower , but runs a little at last .

Morillion nacarat is an old Flower , of a light Scarlet-colour and milk-white , sometimes well marked , but the leaves are hollow , and at last runs ; the bottom blew with black Tamis .

Cardinal Flambiant is of a pale Scaret-colour , well marked with white ; the Flower is short and handsom , bottom and Tamis blew .

Prince Cardinal is a large long-leaved Flower , well marked with flesh-colour , crimson and white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Morillion de Anvers , is an ordinary low Flower , pale scarlet , marked with pale yellow , and runs at last .

Orient Virgin is a good Flower , pale scarlet , and pure white , well divided in small marks and stripes ; the bottom and tamis both blew .

General Gowda is a large Flower , of a bright crimson colour , sometimes well marked with white , but commonly the red hath the mastery ; besides the bottom and Tamis are both pale yellow .

Triumphans is a smaller Flower than the last , the stalk weak , the colours good crimson and white , but very unconstant ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Envy is a good Flower , of an excellent crimson colour , well marked with good white , especially on the inside the leaves ; the bottom and Tamis both blew .

Bew Turnier hath a Flower in fashion like the last , the colours are gredeline , crimson and white , but very unconstant , and often little or no white .

Bel la Bar is an old Flower , like the last , of the same colours , but more constantly marked with white .

Bel Breire hath a weak stalk and small Flower , of a good crimson colour , guarded and striped with pale yellow , which one hot day turns white ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Bel Brune is a fair Flower , of a dark-brown crimson colour , well marked , feathered and striped with white , the bottom pale yellow , with large dusty-brown Tamis .

The Cardinal is a low Flower , of a deep-dark red colour , sometimes feathered with white , and often all red ; some of them are rectified , and come much better marked ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Vesta hath a Flower round and handsome , of a deep-shining crimson colour , variably spread with white , but if the red have the mastery , it soon runneth over the white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Royal Vesta , or Nonparel , is a better and more constant flower than the last ; the colours are carnation , crimson and white : when the flower marks well , the bottom is white and the Tamis blew .

Mazarine hath long , narrow , sharp-pointed leaves , of a pale crimson colour , marked with deeper red and white , but unconstant ; the bottom blew and the Tamis black .

Sattine , General Richard , or Emperor , is all one old flower , with a tall upright stalk and short leaves , of a pale carnation colour , flaked and marked with white , a little apt to run ; the bottom and Tamis yellow .

Morillion de Argiers is an ordinary Flower , of a blewish-red colour , marked something like the last with white ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

The Pearl is an old Flower , of a bright carnation colour , marked and striped with more and less white ; the leaves of the Flower twine and stand different from others ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Bien Venu is like the last in the fashion of the Flower , but much better , it is of a pale carnation colour , striped and variably marked with white , the tops of the leaves pale flesh-colour ; bottom and Tamis blew .

Admiral Cataline is an old Flower , of a bright carnation , some crimson , and constantly well marked with white ; the bottom white , and Tamis pale yellow .

Susanna is a delightful Flower , of a comely form , the colours bright carnation , and Snow-white , from the first opening , well parted and divided , the bottom white with pale greenish Tamis . Those of this kind which rectifie and have most white , are called Astreas , others the Virgin of Amsterdam .

The Pellican , when it comes right , is a pretty Flower , of a good carnation colour , marked thick with smaller and bigger stripes of white ; the bottom and Tamis of a greenish dark blew colour .

Belline is a small weak stalked Flower , of a blewish carnation colour , a little marked with white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Pass Belline chiefly differeth from the last in the colours of the Flower , those of this being carnation , some gredeline and much white , well placed and parted ; the bottom and Tamis both blew .

General Zweman is a fair Flower , bright carnation gredeline and white , variably placed , and paned on the tops of the leaves ; the bottom white and Tamis blew .

Camusetta is a fair large Flower , apt to be known by the green leaves , which are large and full of whitish spots ; the Flower hath large broad leaves , well veined striped and marked , especially on the insides , with carnation , some gredeline , and much white ; the bottom , by the well marking of the Flower is commonly white , and the Tamis blew .

Faragon Francoise is a handsome flower , of a good deep carnation-colour , well marked with long stripes of white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Admiral of France is like the last , in colour and manner of marking , but the leaves of this twine , and do not stand round as those of other Flowers ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Benedictine is a pretty flower of a bright carnation colour , well marked with white ; the bottom and Tamis dark-purple .

Paragon Blackburn hath a tall stalk , and fair Flower with broad leaves , yet sharp-pointed , of light carnation-colour , with some marks of deeper red , flamed and striped with white ; the bottom and Tamis blew . This was raised by Mr. Humphry Blackburn , late keeper of the Garden at York-house in the Strand , from the seeds of the Pass Oudinard , as he told me when he gave me the root .

Paragon de Gildon is a good Flower , of a fine carnation-colour , deep crimson and pure white , well placed and broken ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Dantile de Flure is of a pale Rose-colour , prettily laced , marked and spotted with white ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow ; this is a pleasant Flower , but runs a little at last .

Pass Rosie is a fine round Flower , variably marked upon pale Rose-colour , with crimson and some veins of straw-colour , resembling a well watered Tabby ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Rosillionte is a large Flower , Rose-colour , variably spotted and striped with white , which commonly hath the mastery ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Holofernes , or Golia , is a very tall Flower , marked all over with shaddows of Rose-colour and pale yellow ; the bottom and Tamis yellow ; now of little esteem .

Turban is a large round hollow-leaved Flower , often with eight or more leaves , of a reddish Peach-colour , flamed up the middle and sides with crimson ; the bottom blew with dark brown Tamis .

The Chimney-Sweeper is a low short-leaved round flower , of a blackish dark red colour , with a large round whitish bottom , and pale yellow Tamis ; some of these will happen to be striped with more or less white , and then called the striped Chimney-Sweeper , and as they mark so valued .

Admiral Heart is a handsome flower , of a good carnation colour , deep crimson , and good white ; the bottom blew with black Tamis .

Zeablom is of divers sorts , the most ordinary is of a sad blewish red colour , sometimes a little marked with white , very unconstant and apt to run , as most of the Zeabloms are ; the bottom and Tamis sad purple .

Royal Zeablom , or Coning , is at first opening a fine flower , striped and veined through every leaf thereof with blewish carnation , gredeline and white , but if the season be hot , it will run and be slubbered all over ; the bottom and Tamis both blew .

Cedanella is of near affinity with the last , but much a better flower , of a good blewish carnation-colour , well marked and variegated with crimson , some gredeline , and good white ; of this there are two or three sorts , but the best hath more white , and is not apt to run as the other are ; the bottom and Tamis blew , and called Cedanella de Bard.

Lanscot Bole is a fine flower , of a bright carnation-colour , finely agoted and striped with gredeline and white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Altes Royal is sometimes a pretty flower , of a deep blewish red colour , marked with some light crimson and white , but when the red hath the mastery , it will quickly run over the other colours ; the bottom and Tamis are dark blew .

Zweman John Garet , or Chamolet , is an old flower , of a deep Peach-colour , chamleted , and striped with red and white ; the bottom blew and the Tamis purple .

Paragon Lifgin is an ordinary flower , a little marbled and striped about the edges with Isabella-colour , and pale yellow , and sometimes over all the flower ; it hath a greenish dark bottom and sad blew Tamis .

The Parot is of several sorts , some all green , unless a little whitish towards the sides of the leaves , others have the leaves half folded , green in the middle , and the sides almost white ; but there is one noble kind hereof , which for its excellency is called

The Rich Parot , this groweth tall and strong , the green leaves rent in the sides , the flower large , and formed something like the last , onely it hath spurs on the sides of the leaves , which are of dark brown colour , and lighter by degrees to the middle , which is of a whittish green colour , very strange in fashion and colours from all others ; the bottom and Tamis of all the Parots are of a pale greenish yellow colour .

Agot Rampard is a fine flower , of a heavy sad Isabella-colour , with some marks of rich crimson , and great stripes of yellow ; a dark bottom , with large black Tamis .

Agot Gekeire is a low flower , with long narrow sharp-pointed leaves , of a colour betwixt horse-flesh and Isabella , a little striped with white ; the bottom blew , with large purple Tamis .

Star de Mans is a small flower , with long and very narrow sharp-pointed leaves , at first opening twisted at the ends , which after open and spread flat like a star , with six points , of a reddish Isabella-colour , striped towards the bottom with white ; the bottom and Tamis both pale yellow .

Marvelia de Quacle is of a pale Isabella-colour , with many red spots standing together on the inside of the leaves , like unto a sprig of Barberies , and sometimes a little striped with white ; the bottom and Tamis dark blew .

The President is a round Globe-formed flower , marked with purplish red , lighter and sadder yellow ; the bottom and Tamis violet .

Nofte , or the Royal-Shuttle-maker , is worthy esteem , the leaves of the flower are sharp-pointed and a little twine , finely marked with bright flesh-colour , deep scarlet and pale yellow ; the bottom and Tamis black ; this usually puts forth a bulb or young root betwixt the stalk and lower leaf , whereby it is aptly increased .

La perfeit , or Turdif rectified , is a pretty low flower , of a pleasant carnation , well marked with white ; the bottom and Tamis dark blew .

Pompeza is a fair large flower , constantly well marked with fine light carnation and pure white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Eminentissime is at first a fine flower , with long sharp-pointed leaves , well striped with Peach-colour , carnation and white ; the bottom and Tamis dark purple .

The Eagle is a fair flower , Peach-colour , pale gredeline , some deep crimson and pure white ; bottom and Tamis purple .

Rickets fine Agot is a beautiful flower , striped , agotted , and variously marked with Rose-colour , deep crimson and fine white ; the bottom and Tamis purple .

Agot Oriental is a good flower , finely marked with Rose-colour , gredeline , some crimson and white ; the bottom and Tamis purple .

Paragon Florison is a good flower , the leaves sharp-pointed , variably veined , striped and marked with Isabella , Peach-colour , and milk white ; the bottom blew and Tamis dark violet purple .

Morillion Curtis is a large strong thriving flower , most of a carnation-colour , a little crimson about the Edges , and well feathered with white ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Admiral de Mans is an old flower , of a deep red , striped with white , but slubbered and not well parted , besides it is apt to run , and the bottom and Tamis yellow .

Jacobea rectified is in colours like the last , but much a better flower , commonly marked up the middle of the leaves , with a great feathered stripe of deep red , the rest white ; the bottom and Tamis yellow .

Paragon de Costa is like the last , but a better flower , well striped and marked with the same deep red colour and good white ; the bottom and Tamis yellow .

General of Holland is an old flower , of a deep blewish red colour , with great marks and small stripes of white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

La Towers is a weak-stalked flower , which when it comes well hath one or two large broaken stripes , of a blewish red colour , through the middle of every leaf , the rest white ; the bottom blew and the Tamis black .

Bel Pallas of Paris is a better flower than the ordinary Pallas , it is commonly well marked , and striped upon a blewish red , with some crimson and more white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Pass bel Tew , or numero une , is an old flower , agotted and marbled with gredeline and white , but unconstant ; the bottom and Tamis of a dark blew , dusted with yellow .

Marbre Jasper is like the last , but a fairer and more constant flower , of a brighter gredeline , agotted and marbled upon white ; the bottom blew , with brown dusty Tamis .

Agot Poit vin , or Pass Cittadell , is an old flower , with narrow sharp-pointed leaves , of a pale gredeline and murrey purple , sometimes agatted , veined and marked with white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

White pass Cittadel is in all things like the last , but that the white hath the mastery , and therefore more esteemed than the former .

Dorile is a hansome flower , of a blewish bright carnation , varied and striped with good white ; the bottom blew , and the Tamis purple .

Carthago is something like the last , but much a better flower , of the same bright blewish carnation colour , and more constantly well striped , and marked with white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Diana is of several sorts , the best we call La bella Diana , which is a good flower , of a bright blewish carnation , varied , striped , and well marked with deep red and pure white , throughout every leaf thereof , with a blew bottom and purple Tamis .

Dipute Doria is a kind of Diana , the flower is like the Dorile , but commonly better marked and striped with small lines of deep red and snow white ; the bottom and Tamis like those of the Diana .

Dianea is a flower of my own raising from the seeds of the Diana , from which it differs in that the leaves are edged and finely whipped about , with a deep brown purple , and feathered in the middle with the same colour upon snow white ; the Tamis dark blew .

General Doctor Boleson vam Bole is a fine flower , of a blewish bright carnation , purled about the edges , well striped and marked with crimson and pure white , which commonly hath the mastery ; the bottom blew , with small black Tamis .

Otter , or Otho de Mans , is a tall large old flower , often containing eight or more leaves , of a dull heavy purple colour , listed up the sides , and sometimes feathered through the leaves with white ; the bottom and Tamis yellow .

Brown purpur Cataline is like the last in the fashion of the flower , but of a better brown purple colour , feathered and striped up the sides and middle of the leaves with large lists of white ; the bottom and Tamis purple .

Pass Heron , or Grand purpur de Book , is an old flower , with three leaves standing up like a Herns top , and three turning down , of a sullen , yet shining purple colour , with many small lines of milk white ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Violetta is one of the first blown of the Medias , it is of a violet purple colour , sometimes well marked with white ; the bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

The Flanders Widow is a common flower , of a sad purple colour , and marked towards the bottom with a sadder purple and some white ; the bottom of this and all the other Widows is small and of a greenish blew colour , with purple Tamis .

The good Widow is in all things like the last , but more and better marked with white .

The Fair Widow differeth from the last , in that the flower is shorter , more and better striped and marked with two sad purples and white .

Princess Royal came from the Flanders Widow , and differs onely from it , in that the leaves of the sad purple flower are listed about the sides with white .

The white Widow is of the same fashion and colour with the other Widows , but commonly striped and marked with more white .

Deesse , or ( as we call it ) the Prince of Wales , is of the family of the Widows , and formerly esteemed ; of this we have two sorts , the best is of a good deep purple , well striped and feathered through every leaf thereof with white ; the other is a lesser flower , the leaves narrow and sharp-pointed , not so well marked as the other ; the bottoms and Tamis of both like those of the Widows .

Princess Turgiana is the best of all the generation of Widows , the flower hath thin leaves , well marked with two purples , and much white , which commonly hath the mastery ; the bottom and Tamis like those of the Widows .

Ariana is of my own raising from the seeds of the Sturgiana , from which it differs , in that the leaves are thicker , purer white from the first opening , and very well marked with bigger and lesser broken stripes , and drops of bright crimson ; the Tamis purple .

Rundelo , Angellica , or Paragon Bembrig , is a large long-leaved flower , of a deep reddish purple colour , flaked and marked with white ; the bottom and Tamis of a dark purple colour .

Brown Anvers is a fair well-formed flower , of a sad reddish brown purple colour , striped and marked with some lighter purple , and more or less white ; the bottom blew with dark purple Tamis .

Bew Anuers is like the last , onely the colours are brighter , and the flower commonly better marked ; in bottom and Tamis like the former .

General Anvers , or Brown Duke of Brabant , is like the last , but better marked with a brown and lighter purple , and often well striped with white ; the bottom and Tamis as in those of the two other .

General Bole is a good flower , of neer affinity with the Brown Anvers ; the Flower is agoted , striped and variably marked with a darker and lighter reddish purple and white , with a blew bottom and purple Tamis ; it is a tender Flower , and the root apt to perish in a hot of over-dunged soil ; of this there are two or three sorts , but the best is that called General Bol Talbon .

Paragon Jeron , or Jeronimus Royal , is a good Flower , striped and marked with shades of purple and good white ; the bottom and Tamis dark blew .

Adoratea de Holland , or as it is vulgarly called the Dorothy of Holland , is a good Flower , of a deep brown purple colour , finely whipt about the edges , and well striped and marked with a redder and lighter purple and pure white , the bottom and Tamis purple ; of this there are two sorts , but the best is called the North Dorothea .

Carolus is an excellent Flower , elegantly marked and striped with shades of murrey , purple , and pure white , through every leaf thereof ; the bottom blew , and the Tamis purple .

Pass Zeablom of Paris is the best of all the Zeabloms , the Flower is fair , of a deep purple-colour very well marked with white ; the bottom blew with dark purple Tamis .

Veluerte , Ulurte , or the Velvit Tulip , is a good flower , of a deep dark velvet purple-colour , marked with some lighter purple and white stripes , especially in the tops of the leaves ; the bottom and Tamis black .

Brown Purpur de Murrey , as it is commonly called , is an excellent fair Flower , of a rich shining brown purple-colour and pure white , marked with great stripes up the middle of the leaves ; the bottom blew with purple Tamis .

Agot Hanmer is a beautiful Flower , of three good colours , pale gredeline , deep scarlet , and pure white , commonly well parted , striped , agoted , and excellently placed , abiding constant to the last , with the bottom and Tamis blew . This gallant Tulip hath its name from that ingenious lover of these rarities , Sir Thomas Hanmer , who first brought it into England , from whose free community , my self and others partake the delight of this noble Flower .

Agot san Dence , or Argus , is of the same colours with the last , and like it in the manner of marking ; the chiefest difference is , that the leaves of this are sharper-pointed , plainer , and not so broad and hollow as those of Agot-Hanmer , the gredeline more purple , and the scarlet paler ; the bottom and Tamis of this are blew like the former .

Brabason is of several sorts , and all of them fine Flowers , of several purple colours ; the most common is the petit Brabason , the Flower being small but well marked with two purples and white , the rest being all very good Flowers , and known by several names , as Brabason pore , Brabason Hugon , Brabrason Adrian , Brabason Puke , and Brabason Swallins ; all of them of several purples and white , notably differing from each other in colours and manner of marking .

There are other good Flowers , whose colours are of several purples and white , as Hispaniolet , Agot de Gorier , Arch-Duke Imperial , Le Arch de Auckre , Amphitrio , Arminante , Consiergi , and Althea ; these more notably differ from each other in the work or fashion of marking than the Brabasons , as well as in lighter and deeper , redder , or blewer purples , they are all fine Flowers , and some of them very rare .

There are also some other good Flowers that are crimson and white , as Atlas , Sigismond , and Paragon Alette , others carnation and white , as Unick la Croy , Jacobine , and Finette ; all excellent Flowers , with many more , which to enumerate would fill a considerable volum .

Besides these , there are many pretty new flowers which arise from good self-colours , which the French call Bizars , and we French Modes ; of these I will give you the knowledge of a dozen fine sorts , and so conclude the middle-Flowering Tulips .

Tremontane is flesh-colour , pale yellow , and Isabella ; bottom and Tamis pale yellow .

Proteus is a pretty small Flower , well marked with deeper and lighter crimson and pale yellow ; a dark bottom and violet purple Tamis .

Amidore is a fine Mode , pale yellow , well marked with dark cinnamon-colour ; the Tamis purple .

Brown George is a large round Flower , thick striped and powdered with sadder and brighter cinnamon-colour , upon pale yellow , with black Tamis .

Agot picot is a large Flower , well marked with pale Rose-colour , some crimson and white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Aurora is of the colour so called , and pale yellow , with brown Tamis .

Clytus is a fine Flower , of a dark yellow colour , finely marked with small lines of hair-colour and dark crimson , with violet purple Tamis .

Agot Bizar is deep Orenge , light flesh-colour , and pale yellow , with a greenish bottom and black Tamis .

Rich Portugal is but a small Flower , but finely marked with small lines of cinnamon-colour , and pale straw-colour , with a dark bottom and black Tamis .

Memorables hath a long-leaved Flower of the colour of pale tanned leather , prettily marked with sad purple , and bright yellow , with purple Tamis .

Proserpine hath the tops of the leaves of the colour of the last , yellow towards the sides , marked and whipt about with very brown dark purple ; the bottom yellowish , and the Tamis purple .

The Curle differs from all others in the form of the Flower , for this hath the leaves thick and curiously plaited , and curled about the edges ; the colour is dark yellow , finely marked all over with small lines of sad red or liver-colour ; the bottom and Tamis violet purple .

Tulipa Serotina , The late flowering Tulip .

PAto Madam , the yellow Crown , or as some call it the Crown of France , is now a common Flower , of a good full red colour , marked and crowned on the tops of the leaves , with gold yellow ; of this there is an inferior kind , whose Flower is more yellow than red , and therefore many ignorantly call it the fools Coat ; the bottom and Tamis of both these are yellow .

Prince de la More is a fine Flower , as rare as the other is common , well marked with a deeper and lighter cinnamon-colour and pale yellow , with a blew bottom and black Tamis .

The Serotine Zeablom is a weak-stalked low Flower , of a deep red colour , feathered and marked with some gredeline , and at first pale yellow , which after turns white ; the bottom and Tamis dark blew .

Gresound is a low small Flower , of a dark red colour , striped and feathered with pale-yellow ; the bottom of a dark greenish colour , and the Tamis almost black .

Star of Venus hath a larger Flower , of a good carnation-colour , marked and veined with pale yellow at first , which after turns white ; the bottom and Tamis both blew .

Paragon Mullen is bright carnation , and sometimes well striped with white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Agot Romane is an old flower , most pale Rose-colour , sometimes well marked about the edges with crimson , and striped with white ; the bottom and Tamis blew .

Marbre Harlus is an ordinary flower , most flesh-colour , marked with Isabella , and sometimes a little white ; the bottom and Tamis dark blew .

Tenebris is a large strong flower , of a dark deep red colour , like that called de Roy , with small veins of Peach-colour , a small pale yellow bottom , and dark brown Tamis .

All these Tulips , and many others may be had of Mr. Rickets of Hogesden near London .

These beautiful flowers ( warmed by the Raies of the returning Sun ) disclose their bravery , to salute the first approaches of the welcome Spring ; the Praecoces flowering from the beginning of March , untill a good part of April be spent , at which time the Medias begin to display their noble colours , and about the end of that moneth , or the beginning of May , are in the height of glory , and when past , the Serotinas succeed , and commonly continue the greatest part of that month .

The roots of all Tulips lose their Fibres every year , and are to be taken up as soon as the stalks are dry , which is commonly about Midsomer , and kept dry out of the ground untill the time of setting them , which in cold grounds is about the end of September , and in hot and more fertil grounds October .

The more common and ordinary kinds may be set in borders , or spaces in knots , according to the fancy of the owner ; but for the richer and more noble sorts , they will deserve to be lodged in particular beds by themselves , provided for that purpose , after the manner hereafter directed .

When the roots are ready to be taken up , make choice of a fair calm day , and in stiff or hard grounds , a long hollow Trowel will be fit for the purpose ; but in the best light ground , it may be done with the hands onely .

As the several flowers are taken up , lay them on papers , whereon the names are written , and place them open upon some boarded flore , where they must so remain to dry about twenty days ; then take away the dead Fibres and loose outer skins , and such off-sets or young roots as will easily part from the old ; which done , it will be necessary to wrap up your best roots especially , in fresh well dried papers , and on the out sides to write the name of each flower , which may be kept with their off-sets with them , untill the middle of August , at which time the off-sets must be Set in a good bed prepared for that purpose ; the old bearing roots left in the papers untill the time fore-mentioned for planting them .

After your roots are secured in Boxes , it will be very necessary often to look them over , lest any should be mouldy , as it often hapneth , which must be gently wiped off with a woollen cloath ; the root dried before the fire , and so put up again into a fresh paper .

The roots thus carefully disposed , it will be time to prepare a place to plant them , which for the best bearing roots is a bed or beds , according to your store , a yard broad , and in length according to your ground , bordered with rails , and filled two foot deep , with the lightest , freshest , and finest sifted earth that can be gotten . These beds will contain six roots in every row cross the bed , which with a line may be exactly divided , and the roots placed accordingly , but before they are set , the number of roots in each sort must be considered , and the position of each particular designed in a paper , according to this example , North Dorothea . Paragon Florison . Agot Hanmer . Emmentissime . Proteus . La Bella Diana . Brabason Swalins . Grand purpur de Murrey . General Bole. Agot Picot . Pass Zeablom de Paris . Pompeza . Agot San Deny . Carolus . Amidore . General Bolson . Paragon Jeron . Agot Oriental . Rich Parrot . Proserpine . Ariana . Brabason Hugon . Veluerte . Astrea . Agot Bizar . Princess Turgiana . The Eagle . Carthago . President . Clitus .

whereby reckoning the numbers , the flowers may be set , and after known before and after their time of bearing , and so by the same paper taken up and disposed as before is expressed . In placing these roots , some set the saddest colours towards the sides , and the lightest in the middle ; but a hansome mixture is best , not setting too many dark or light colours together , though different from each other , nor to mingle the Praecoces with the Medias , but placing each sort in a particular bed ; when these noble Tulips begin to rise up to flower , it is very necessary to cover the bed with a Canvas tilt ( supported with a frame , and raised like a Herse that it touch not the flowers ) especially in the night to prevent Frosts , which often curdle the buds , and quite spoil the beauty of the flowers , besides it defends them from hail and great rains , as also from the scortching heat of the Sun , and so cause them to continue long in flower . This tilt or canvas covering may be taken off before the time of flowering in fair days , and to refresh them with some gentle showers , but kept covered in the night ; and when fully blown , give them not above an hours Sun in the morning and as much in the evening , if the season be hot , otherwise they will endure more .

As for the more ordinary sorts of Tulips that are set in borders , or spaces in knots , and no account kept of them , such , if the ground be good when they are set , may stand two years without taking up , but not longer , in respect the off-sets that rise from them , will cause the flowers to be small and weak , and all the nourishment proper to this Plant exhausted , so that before they are set again in the same place , the earth must be changed for that which is fresh .

After the flowers are faln , break off the head or seed-vessel from the stalk of every flower , unless of such you reserve for seed , which will cause them to dry down the sooner , and also fortifie the roots .

Although the roots of Tulips are for the most part hardy , and of long continuance , yet sometimes some of the best kinds will be infected with diseases , notwithstanding our greatest diligence and care in their preservation , which hapneth to the roots of some , whilst out of ground , and to others after they are set . For the first , in observing the root of any good flower , if it appear rivelled or crumpled on the outside , and feel soft and spungy , it is a manifest sign of a consumption , which to prevent , wrap it up in Wooll dipped in Sallet Oyl , and place it where it may receive some little warmth from the fire ; and abouts the end of August set it in the ground , putting some soot made by a wood-fire , mixed with sand , about it , covering the place with a pot , the bottom turned upward , to keep it from wet , until the fibres are come forth , which will be by the end of September or not at all . With such roots thus handled it often happeneth , that though some of the outer folds rot and consume , yet the middle and heart will remain sound , and in two or three years bear a flower again .

Now for such defects as happen to these roots after they are set , and put forth green leaves ; if any of them begin to fade and wither , open the earth to the bottom of the root to find the cause , and if the root be moist , and feel soft , it is past help ; but if any thing hard , it may be recovered by putting soot and dry sand to the root , and covering it , as in the former , leaving the place something open that it may dry down the sooner : In hot days take off the pot , and take up the root as soon as the fibres are gone , and keep it in Wooll wet in Oyl near the fire ; last set it again after the manner of the former , by this means many good flowers have been saved , which neglected had been undoubtedly lost .

And as we industriously endeavor to recover such sickly roots of choice flowers , so purposely we infect others more vulgar with sickness , by taking up the roots a little before they come to flower , and laying them in the Sun , to abate their luxury , and cause them to come better marked the year following ; this I have often done with strong and lusty roots of the Pass Oudinard , Pass Cittadel , Pass Heron , Agot Robine , Turloone , Widows , and such like ordinary flowers , and commonly found the success answer my expectation in many , and some of them to come so well marked , that they might be taken for much better flowers than they are , especially if a new name be put upon them , as some flower-merchants about London use to do .

The next thing to be considered , is the manner of raising new varieties , a practice fit for the best Florists ; and this is effected chiefly , by sowing the seeds of some choice flowers , as also by the changing of off-sets , and the secret working of nature upon divers self-colours .

For seeds , you must be sure to make choice of such flowers as have strong stalks , and the seed-vessel three square , of such kinds as are most constantly well marked , and such as have the bottoms and Tamis , either blew or purple , which is rarely to be found in the Praecoces , whose bottoms are commonly white or yellow ; yet there is one excellent kind before described by the name of the Omen , that aptly marketh with three colours , and hath the bottom and Tamis both blew , from the seeds whereof doubtless many fine varieties may be raised ; next unto this the Florizante , Morillion Cramosine , Perishot , Admiral Encusen , and the rest of the well-marked Praecoces are not without hope ; but from the Vice-Roy , and the varieties of Edgers , few better than the originals are to be expected .

The Medias , or middle flowering Tulips , afford many more excellent varieties fit for this purpose , as the Adoratea of Holland , Carthago , Paragon Jeron , Doctor Bolson , Paragon Florison , Royal Tudart , Orient Virgin , Diana , Angellica , Cedanella , Princess Turgiana , all the Brabasons , bew Anvers , and divers others : All these named being well-marked flowers , of different colours , with blew or purple bottoms and Tamis , not apt to run , but abiding constant to the last ; and therefore all flowers of hope , and such as few lovers and collectors of flowers are without .

Commonly we make choice of such we intend for seed , when they are in flower , but in so doing we often fail of our purpose , for that the roots lose their fibres , and the stalks dry before the seeds come to be half ripe ; to prevent which , make choice of the strongest roots you have , of such flowers you desire to seed , and set them in that part of your Garden most exposed to the Sun , six or seven inches in the ground ; by which means you may gain good ripe seeds , from almost any flower , as I have found by experience .

About the middle of July , sooner or later , as the Summer is hotter or colder , the seeds will be ready to gather , which may be known by the dryness of the stalks , and the opening of the seed-vessels , which gather , and take up the roots , letting the seeds remain in the pods until the end of September , and then take them out , which being cleansed from chaff , may be sowed in beds of fine sifted earth , especially the more ordinary sorts ; but those of the choicest flowers , must be sowed in Boxes filled with the finest earth that can be gotten , in respect the young roots are apt to run down deep in the earth , so that in beds many of them will be lost : Sow not these seeds too thick , nor cover them more than a finger thick ; in March following they will come up with small leaves like grass , and in April weed , and gently water them , as often as you shall find occasion . About Midsummer , two years after the sowing , you may take them up , cleanse the small roots , and set them again in rows at a wider distance , and so every other year until they come to bear flowers , still altering the ground with fresh earth and sifted compost before you set them again ; it will be six or seven years before the Praecoces will bear flowers , but the Medias a year or two sooner ; when you see the flowers , mark out the best , and give them new names , casting away the common reds , yellows , and purples , and reserving such self-colours chiefly as are light , with blew , purple , or black bottoms and Tamis , for such often change into fairer flowers , and better marked , than many that shew their best at first flowering .

And although probably many fine flowers may be raised from the seeds of those well-marked flowers before mentioned , yet such as have a good collection of Modes or self-colours , observing what colours are aptest to change , and by the bottoms running up into the leaves become well marked with several colours ; doubtless by sowing the seeds of such , the product maybe as answerable to expectation ; and though they come at first wholly of one colour , yet if that be either Orenge , Brimston , Hair , Dove , Gredeline , Isabella , Shamway , or any other light or strange colour , they are to be esteemed , for in a year or two , many such have changed into good marked flowers , and so with all their increase continued .

To hasten which effect , let such of your colours as are strong and luxuriant , be set in lean and hungry , but fresh ground , and the next year after in that which is fat and well manured ; and so yearly removed to contrary soils , untill you obtain the end desired ; and such flowers may be set in your Garden , and the rest continued . The like course is held with off-sets , to cause them to alter from the original , as many have done , for the General Bole came from the brown Anvers , the Cedanella from the Zeablom , and many fine flowers from the Brabason , Turloon , and Widows .

As for the planting of the best Tulips , a provision of manured , fresh , light sandy earth is necessary , yearly to make new beds for them , or by taking away that wherein they grew to supply the place ; for if Tulips ( as many good Florists conclude ) be set twice in the same earth , they will languish and decay for want of agreeable nourishment ; yet if you have store of Neats dung mixed with sand , that hath lain on a heap two or three years , the same sifted , and in August well mingled with the earth of your bed in any good air will be sufficient ; many about London complain of the earth , when indeed the fault is in the air . I have set my best Tulips twenty years successively in one bed , where by the means prescribed , they have prospered to my wish , and often beyond my expectation .

CHAP. X.

Narcissus .

THe Daffodill , next the Tulips , deserveth mention , in respect of the great variety and excellence thereof ; we will begin with those called true Daffodils , and so proceed to the bastard kinds , of both which , there are single and double , some with broad , some with narrow green leaves , some bearing one , and others many flowers on one stalk ; but in respect many of them are now common and of small esteem , we will insert the best in every kinde , and such onely as are fittest to be collected and entertained by all that delight in flowers ; begining first with that best known , called

Narcissus Nonparel .

THe incomparable Daffodill hath a great and something round root , covered with brownish skins , as the roots of all Daffodills are , from whence riseth up three or four long broad leaves , of a grayish green colour , with a stalk more than two foot high , at the top whereof out of a thin skinny husk ( as all others do ) cometh forth one large single flower , hanging down the head and looking one way , as all Daffodills do , consisting of six pale yellow large leaves , almost round pointed , with a large and wide chalice or cup in the middle , of a deeper yellow , cut and indented about the edges ; this sometimes hath a flower with twelve or more leaves , and a large cup , which is occasioned by the sport of Nature , joyning two flowers together .

Narcissus Nonparel flore , sive chalice pleno .

THe incomparable Daffodill with a double flower or cup , is in all the parts thereof like unto the former , the flower onely excepted , which in this hath the cup in the middle , very large , thick , and double , consisting of longer pale yellow leaves , and divers broken parts of the deeper yellow cup , mingled together one within another , which besides the border of large leaves , forms a reasonable fair double flower , this is called Narcissus pas Citroniella by the Walloones that brought it lately out of Flanders by that name ; I have had it many years , and have now great store thereof by the increase of one root which I received from Paris by the name of the double nonparel Daffodill , as in truth it is .

Narcissus Gallicus major flore pleno .

THe great double French Daffodill hath narrower and shorter green leaves than the former , the stalk riseth about a foot high , bearing one fair double flower , composed of many sharp-pointed leaves , confusedly thrust together without order , of a pale yellow colour almost white ; the leaves of this flower are thin and apt to stick together , and never open at all if the season be wet , yet in some years it will come very fair and well opened .

Narcissus Gallicus minor flore pleno .

THe lesser double French Daffodill is in all the parts thereof lesser than the other , it beareth upon a weak stalk one fine double flower , made of many sharp-pointed leaves lying one over the other , and shorter by degrees to the middle thereof , like a star with six points ; this is of something a yellower colour than the former , and openeth well .

Narcissus albus flore pleno Virginianus .

THe double white Daffodill of Virginia cometh up with two small green leaves , and betwixt them the stalk about six inches high , bearing one fair double white flower , in form like the last described , but onely in the middle thereof cometh forth a small long white fork or horn , which addeth much to the beauty of the flower ; this is tender and will scarcely endure our Winters , yet more hardy than that little single upright Virginian Daffodill , called Atto Musco , which is not worth the care which is required in the keeping of it .

Narcissus Albus multiplex .

THe double white Daffodill is so common and well known unto all that have any judgement in flowers , that it needeth no description , yet for the beauty of the flower , and the sweet scent , may be admitted ; every other year in June or July it must be taken up , the small roots and off-sets cast away , the biggest onely retained , which may be kept dry untill the middle of September , and then set , will in due season bring forth fair double flowers .

These are the best of the true Daffodills that bear one flower on a stalk ; I shall now give you the time of their flowering , and then proceed to the next division , which is of those true Daffodills that bear many flowers on one stalk , leaving all other observations concerning the planting and ordering of them to the end of the Chapter , where one general direction may serve for all .

The Non-parell single and double , flower in the end of March or beginning of April ; the double French Daffodills sooner , about the middle of March ; the white of Virginia in the end of April , and the common white about the same time , or a little after it .

Narcissus Africanus aureus major .

THe great yellow Daffodill of Africa is the most stately of all the single Daffodills that bear many flowers on one stalk , whereof there are four or five sorts , but none of them comparable to this , so that those that are furnished with this , will care but little for any of the other ; the leaves of this noble Daffodill are long and broad , of a greener colour then others , among which cometh forth a strong stalk , not so long as the leaves , bearing at the top thereof in an old and well-grown Plant , ten or twelve large flowers , of a fair shining yellow colour , with round large boles or cups , of a deeper yellow than the six outer leaves , of an excessive sweet scent ; the root is great , and in fashion like that of other Daffodills ; it is usually called Narcissus d' Algiers , and Africanus Polyanthos .

Narcissus Sulphureus major .

THe great Brimston-coloured Daffodill hath narrower and greener leaves than the last , yet full as long ; it hath commonly four or five flowers on one stalk , which at first opening are of a bright Lemon-colour , with a large round Saffron-coloured cup , after it hath been blown some time , the leaves turn to a more sullen Brimston-colour , and the cup also waxeth paler ; this is sweet like the former and worthy of esteem .

Narcissus Narbonensis sive medio luteus .

THe French Daffodill with the yellow cup hath long and something broad leaves , but not so long as the two former , it beareth sometimes eight or ten flowers on one stalk , made of six small white leaves , and a little round yellow cup in the middle , of a soft sweet scent ; of this kinde there are five or six several sorts , some flowering earlier , some bigger , and some bearing more flowers than others .

Narcissus totus albus Polianthos .

THe all-white Daffodill with many flowers is like the French Daffodill last described , onely the flowers are all white , as well the cup as the outer leaves : of this there is a lesser and a greater , but the greater is much the better .

Narcissus Cyprius flore pleno Polianthos .

THe double yellow Daffodill of Cyprus with many flowers hath leaves almost as broad and long as the former , and a stalk above a foot high , which beareth four or five small double pale yellow flowers , of a strong heady scent ; it is tender and must be defended from frosts in the winter .

Narcissus medio luteus Corona duplici

THe Turky Daffodill with a double Crown cometh up with three or four long broad leaves , with a large tall stalk , bearing four or five small milk-white flowers , with a double yellow cup in the middle , composed of many small short yellow leaves , or parts of several cups , one within another ; this is exceeding sweet , and not so tender as the last .

Narcissus Chalcidonicus flore pleno Polianthos .

THe double Daffodill of Constantinople with many flowers is like the last described , the leaves come up before other Daffodils , and the stalk beareth four or five small double white flowers , the leaves standing without order , and many pieces of a yellow cup among them : there is another of this kind that beareth fewer and lesser flowers ; the pieces of the yellow cup , that is mixed with the white leaves , are edged with purple ; they are both very sweet and fine flowers , but the first is much the better , and is more tender than the other .

The great African Daffodill flowreth about the middle of March , the Brimstone-colour in the beginning of April , the French Daffodils , and the all white , betimes in March , the double yellow of Cyprus flowreth about the end of April , and the other of Constantinople , about the end of March , but after some mild winter much sooner .

The next division of true Daffodills is of Juncifolias , those with round rush-like leaves , whereof there is some diversity , the best of which are these that follow .

Narcissus Juncifolius albus .

THe white Junquilia , or Rush Daffodill , hath a small round blackish root , from whence spring up three or four small long Rush-like green leaves , with a stalk more than a foot high , bearing three or four little flowers , each containing six white leaves , and a round cup in the middle , of the same colour . There is another of this kind that beareth white flowers , with larger cups , in nothing else differing .

Narcissus Juncifolius flore albo reflexo .

THe white turning Junquilia , or Rush Daffodill , hath green leaves like the former , but somewhat shorter , rounder , and greener , the leaves of the flowers are larger , the cups much bigger , and both of a white coleur : the six leaves turning back even to the foot stalks .

Narcissus Juncifolius flore luteo reflexo .

THe yellow turning Junquilia differeth chiefly from the last in the colour of the flowers , which in this are wholly of a gold yellow colour .

Narcissus Juncifolius chalice albo reflexis foliis luteis .

THe yellow turning Junquilia with a white cup differeth from the rest , in that the outer leaves of the flowers are pale yellow , and the cups milk white .

Narcissus Juncifolius chalice luteo reflexis foliis albidis .

THe white turding Junquilia with a yellow cup , is only different from the other , in that the flowers are contrary to them , the turning leaves in this , being white , and the cup yellow .

Narcissus Juncifolius luteus magno chalice .

THe Junquilia , or Rush Daffodil with a great cup , is bigger in all the parts thereof than any of the former , the flowers are seldom more than three on one stalk , which are larger than in any other Rush Daffodil , the outer leaves are yellow , and do not turn towards the stalk , but rather towards the cup , which is big proportionally to the outer leaves , and of a deeper yellow colour .

Narcissus Juncifolius luteus flore pleno .

THe double Junquilia , or Rush Daffodill , in all the parts thereof , is like the common Junquilia , only the flowers of this are thick and double , consisting of several rows of leaves , with the cups , or pieces thereof , betwixt every row of bigger leaves , and wholly of a fair yellow colour : there is another of this kind that beareth double flowers , but lesser and much inferiour to this .

All these Junquilias , or Rush Daffodils , do flower in April , some sooner than others , and most of those that turn back their leaves , are commonly in flower together .

Narcissus Marinus sive tertius Mathioli .

THe great Sea Daffodill , or Mathiolus his third Daffodil , hath a root far bigger than any other the forementioned Daffodills , the leaves are commonly six in number , of a whitish green colour , twice as thick and broad as any of the former , but not so long as many of them , from the middle and sides whereof springeth up one , two , and sometimes three great stalks , more than a foot high , bearing at the tops thereof , ten , twelve , or more flowers on each stalk , consisting of six white leaves spread or layed open , with a white short cup or crown in the middle , lying flat upon the leaves , cut or divided into six corners , from whence standeth forth long white threads , turning up the ends , and some other white threads in the middle also , tipt with yellow pendents .

This springeth late out of the ground , seldome before the beginning of April , and flowreth in the end of May , and sometimes not untill the beginning of June .

Narcissus Indicus autumnalis latifolius rubellus instar Liliì polianthos .

THe Indian broad-leaved Autumn Daffodill , with many Lily-like reddish flowers on one stalk .

Narcissus Indicus autumnalis rubello albicante colore polianthos .

THe Indian Autumn Daffodill , with many blush flowers on one stalk .

Narcissus Indicus latifolia squamosa radice flore phoeniceo .

THe Indian broad-leaved Daffodill , with a scaly root , and scarlet flower .

Narcissus latifolius flore Phoeniceo instar Jacobei polianthos .

THe broad leaved Daffodil , with scarlet flowers , many on one stalk , vulgarly called Jacobea , this is the red Daffodil described by Mr. Parkinson , the plant is tender , unapt to live with us , and the flower of small beauty .

Narcissus Virginianus latifolius flore purpurascente .

THe broad leaved Virginian Daffodil with a purplish flower . This Daffodil beareth many flowers on one stalk , like small Lillies , of a sullen purplish colour , never opening , and seldome shewing the inner sides of the leaves , in its natural country , and I doubt will hardly live in ours . Of this generation is the Narcissus of Japan or Garnsey Lilly , which there prospers and bears in October Peach-coloured flowers .

These Indian Daffodills flower late , most of them not before September , and some after ; they are all strangers in England , except that of Garnsey : many of them are described by Ferrarius , and I finde them all mentioned in the Catalogue of the Paris Garden , but of what beauty they are , or how they prosper there , I confess I am yet to learn , and I doubt Indian Plants like little better in France than with us ; besides they being of the nature of the great Sea - Daffodill , if the fibres be either broken in taking up those large roots , or spoiled by so long a journey , the roots will undoubtedly perish , and never comprehend in the ground or spring at all . And thus much for the true Daffodils ; and now we shall pass to the bastard kind , and set down some or the best of them , beginning with the biggest and best known , called

Pseudonarcissus aureus Hispanicus maximus .

THe great yellow Spanish bastard Daffodill , from a great root set deep in the ground , which it affecteth , cometh up many thick stiff leaves , of a grayish green colour , with a stalk three foot high , bearing at the top thereof one fair large yellow flower , not hanging down the head , but standing forth , consisting of six short , and something broad leaves , and a great Trunk in the middle , a little crumpled , and wide open at the mouth , turning up the brims .

Pseudonarcissus Hispanicus flore albo major .

THe great white Spanish bastard Daffodill is not so large as the former yellow in any of the parts thereof : it beareth one milk-white flower , hanging down the head , which is of the fashion , and almost as big as the former ; there are two other sorts of white Spanish bastard Daffodills , which are lesser , and wholly of a Snow-white colour .

Pseudonarcissus maximus flore pleno .

THe greatest double bastard Daffodill , or Tradescants double Daffodill , of all other is the most stately , and beareth the biggest , doublest , and gallantest flower of all the double Daffodills ; it hath a great round root covered with a brownish skin , from whence springeth four or five somewhat large leaves , but not very long , of a whitish green colour , the stalk riseth about a foot high , bearing at the top thereof one fair great flower , very much spread open like a full-blown Province - Rose , consisting of a great number of small pale yellow leaves , and almost as many larger , of a deeper yellow colour , standing in rows one under another , shorter and shorter by degrees , even to the middle of the flower .

Pseudonarcissus major flore pleno .

TUggies great double bastard Daffodill , in all the parts thereof is like the last described , but onely in the fashion of the flower , which of this , is of the same yellow colour , large and double , but not so well spread open , nor the broken parts of the cup so well parted , being like to the next in fashion , but far more thick and double , and a much better flower .

Pseudonarcissus minor flore pleno .

THe lesser double bastard Daffodill , or Willmors double Daffodill , hath as large roots , and something longer leaves than the former ; it beareth one double yellow large flower , but not so fair and double as either of the former , yet the leaves of this are larger , though not so many ; sometimes it will be a fair double flower with the cup much broken , and mixed with the paler outer leaves , and sometimes with the six paler outer leaves , and a great double Trunck , in some close and unbroken , and in others half broken , and divided into many parts .

Pseudonarcissus flore pleno minimus .

THe least double bastard Daffodill , or Parkinsons double Daffodill , is like the last in all the parts thereof , but lesser ; the flower is double , consisting of some rowes of pale yellow outer leaves , and some pieces of a broken , deeper , greenish yellow Trunck , forming a long greenish yellow double flower ; not so big as the last .

Pseudonarcissus Anglicus flore pleno .

THe double English bastard Daffodill , or Gerards double Daffodill , differeth onely from the common English bastard Daffodill , in that the flower of this is double , consisting of the pale yellow outer leaves , and parts of the deeper yellow trunck , divided in several rows one within another , and sometimes the trunck is onely double , and some parts or sides of the flower of a greenish yellow .

Pseudonarcissus angustifolius aureus multiplex .

THe golden double narrow-leaved Daffodill hath narrow leaves , of a whitish green colour , about four or five inches long , with a stalk almost a foot high , bearing one double flower , consisting of six yellow outward leaves , and many that are smaller and of a deeper yellow , thick set together in the middle , with some of the paler leaves among them ; the middle of the flower pointing forth , different from all the double Daffodills ; this is as rare as any of the former .

They do all flower from the middle of March , to the middle of April , most of them being commonly in flower together .

Pseudonarcissus Juncifolius albus .

THe white bastard Junquilia , or Rush Daffodill , hath two or three large green leaves , not altogether so round or Rush-like , as those of the fore-mentioned kinds ; the stalk is about half a foot high , bearing at the top one small white flower with six small and short leaves , standing about the middle of the trunck , which is long and very wide open at the brims , the small outer leaves are a little greenish , and the great trunck is milk-white .

Pseudonarcissus Juncifolius luteus major .

THe great yellow bastard Junquilia hath bigger , longer , and broader green leaves than the former , the stalk is higher , and the flower larger and more open at the mouth than the white , and wholly of a yellow colour : Of this there is another sort that no way differeth from it , but in that it is lesser in all the parts thereof ; there is likewise a third , that is like the great yellow , but fairer , and flowereth a moneth after it , in all other parts agreeing .

All these bastard Junquilias flower in March , except the last , which is a month later ; the lesser yellow is the most common , and is sold by the Walloons , by the name of Junquillia Mutone .

The greatest number of the Daffodills are hardy , and increase exceedingly in almost any soil , and some of them are very tender , and must be planted in good earth , a warm place , and defended from Frosts in Winter , such are the double white Daffodills of Virginia , the double yellow of Cyprus , and those of Constantinople , and indeed all those that bear many flowers on one stalk , are more tender than the other sorts , therefore it will be convenient to place them all together under some South wall , where they may stand unremoved many years , in respect they are not very apt to off-set ; neither do they yearly , unless they be taken up , lose all their fibres , so that by long standing in a place the roots will grow great , and the flowers will be many and fair ; all the other sorts that bear but one flower , may be taken up in the beginning of June , and kept dry untill September , the Sea Daffodill , and those of India excepted , which hold their fibres , and must not be removed but upon necessity , and then planted again as soon as may be .

The Sea Daffodill is far more hardy than those of India , which require to be planted in boxes , and housed in winter , but the other may be set under a south wall where it may stand twenty years without removing . If any desire to sow the seeds of Daffodills , in hope to raise some new varieties , those of the Nonparel , the great Spanish yellow , the Spanish whites , the great Junquilia , and the bastard kind , are the aptest to bring good seeds , and the likeliest to yield diversities ; they may be sowed in September , and not removed of three years , and then in June taken up , and presently set again in good ground at wider distances , where they may stand until you may see what flowers they will bear , and then disposed as they shall deserve .

The seeds of the Sea Daffodill must be sowed very thin by it self , and not removed for the space of ten years , about which time it will bear flowers , and when you take it up , the Fibres , which it still holdeth , must be kept whole , and the root presently set again , where it may stand without removing : all the Indian Daffodils are of the same nature , but much more tender . If the seeds were obtained , perhaps they might be the products to plants more durable , being naturalized and bred up in our own Countrey , but so long expectation requireth much patience , though little pains in planting , only sowing them in boxes , letting them not freez in Winter , nor want water in Somer .

Having now done with the Daffodils , wee will conclude this Chapter with some diversities of Lucoium Bulbosum , the Bulbous Violet , which is of the nature of the Daffodills , and then proceed to the Hyacinths .

Lucoium Bulbosum praecox majus .

THe greater early Bulbous Violet , from a small round root , like unto that of a Daffodil , putteth forth three or four very green broad flat and short leaves , with a naked green stalk , at the top whereof out of a thin skin cometh forth one , and sometimes two small white flowers , hanging down the heads , consisting of six short leaves , standing round together , with small sharp points , of a pale greenish colour .

Lucoium bulbosum praecox minus .

THe lesser early Bulbous Violet cometh up with two narrow grayish green leaves , with a small stalk betwixt them , bearing one small pendulous flower , with three small pointed white leaves , on the out side , with three shorter within them , standing round like a cup , edged with green : this is that common kind vulgarly called the Snow-flower .

Lucoium majus bulbosum serotinum .

THe great late-flowring bulbous Violet , is in all the parts thereof very like unto the first , but much bigger , it beareth upon a reasonable tall stalk , bigger in the middle than at either end , three or four flowers , like in form and colour unto the first : we have had two other varieties which came from Portugall , but both of them so tender that they would not abide in our cold Countrey ,

The first flowreth about the end of February , the second or lesser a fortnight before it , and the great late flowring kind , not untill May.

They all increase by the root like Daffodills , being very apt to off-set ; they lose their fibres , and therefore may be taken up and kept dry untill Autumn , and then choice being made of the biggest roots to set , the rest may be cast away , for a few of these will be sufficient to furnish a garden , especially of the lesser and common kind .

CHAP. XI .

Hyacinthus sive Jacinthus .

THe Hyacinth , or Jacinth , is of divers sorts , and many of them of small esteem , we will make choice of the best , and set them down in order , beginning with that so much desired by all Florists .

Hyacinthus Indicus tuberosa radice .

THe great Indian tuberous-rooted Hyacinth hath a thick tuberous knobbed root , formed into several heads , with many thick fibres at the bottoms of them , from those heads rise up several strong and tall stalks , set with divers fair , long , and broad green leaves , joyned at the bottom close unto the stalk , where they are biggest , growing smaller and smaller even to the top thereof , where stand many fair large flowers , each composed of six white leaves , spread open like those of a white Daffodill , with some short threds in the middle , and of a strong sweet scent : there is another of this kind that differeth only from this , in that it is lesser in all the parts thereof .

Hyacinthus Botroides major sive Muscari flore flavo .

THe great yellow Musk Grape flower , or yellow Muscari , from a long round root , with many thick fat fibres underneath ( which do not perish as those of many of the other Jacinths do ) spring up five or six leaves , which at first are reddish , and after of a whitish green colour , hollow , or guttered on the upper side ; sometimes from an old root that hath stood long unremoved , cometh up three or four weak stalks , commonly lying on the leaves , loaden towards the top with many flowers , like little bottles , of a fair yellow colour , and of a Musk sweet scent .

Muscari flore cineritio .

THe Ash-coloured Muscari , is in roots , leaves , stalks and flowers like unto the last , but something lesser , the leaves a little paler , and the flowers of a bleak Ash-colour , as sweet , or rather sweeter than the former .

Muscari flore rubro .

THe red Muscari , differeth chiefly from the last , in that the flowers of this are of a yellowish red colour , and of a softer sweet scent .

Muscari flore albo .

THe white Muscari is like the last , only the flowers of this are of a pale bleak white colour , and of a strong Musky scent .

Hyacinthus comosus ramosus purpureus .

THe fair-haired branched Jacinth hath broader leaves than any of the former , not lying on the ground , but standing more upright , but hollow like the other , the stalk riseth up half a yard high , branched out on every side , with many tuffs or knaps at the ends of them , of a dark murrey purple colour : the roots are great , and hold their fibres like those of the Muscari .

Hyacinthus comosus ramosus elegantior .

THe fair curled haired Jacinth is in all the parts thereof like the former , the only difference being in the flowers , which of this is a bush , or tuft of many branches , sub-divided into divers long curled threds or hairs , of a fine bright murry purple colour , as well the top of the stalk as the flower : this is a beautifull , and strange fashioned flower , and hath been of great esteem , but now grown something common .

Hyacinthus Stellatus major Peruanus .

THe great starry Jacinth of Peru , from a great root , like unto that of the Muscari , come up before winter , many broad , long , sharp-pointed green leaves , which lye on the ground round about the head thereof , from whence riseth up a thick short stalk , bearing from the middle to the top thereof , upon long foot-stalks , very many blew star-like flowers , with some blew threds , tipt with yellow pendents , standing about a middle head , which is of a deeper blew colour , than that of the six outer leaves .

Hyacinthus Stellatus major Peruanus flore albo .

THe great white starry Jacinth of Peru , hath leaves of a lighter green colour and lesser than those of the former , the flowers are not so many on the stalk , and white , with a little shew of blush towards the bottom , in all other parts agreeing with the other .

Hyacinthus Stellatus major Peruanus flore carneo .

THe great blush starry Jacinth of Peru is in all things like the first , the onely difference is in the colour of the flowers , which in this , are of a fine purplish blush-colour .

Hyacinthus stellatus Lilifolio , & radice caeruleo .

THe blew Lilly-leaved starry Jacinth hath a root composed of pale yellow scales , like unto that of the white Lilly , but smaller and longer , from whence spring up many broad green leaves , like unto those of a Lilly , but shorter ; the stalk riseth about a foot high , bearing many star-like flowers at the top thereof , which are of a light blew colour , with six short leaves in the middle , standing round like a cup.

Of this kind there are two other sorts , differing onely in the colour of the flowers , which in the one is white , and in the other blush , in all other respects agreeing with the former .

The Indian Hyacinth doth not flower in our Country untill August ; the Muscaries , and the fair-haired Jacinths flower in April ; the starry Jacinths of Peru , and those with Lilly leaves , bring forth their flowers in May.

The roots of all these Jacinths do hold their fibres , therefore not to be kept long out of ground , nor the fibres broken when removed ; they are to be transplanted in August , except the Indian Jacinths , which are yearly to be taken up in April , the roots carefully parted without breaking the great fibres , and thus re-planted ; put some rich earth in the bottom of a pot , and place the root so that it may be covered on all sides , with some natural fresh earth ; which done , fill up the pot with the same rank earth , to give the fibres nourishment ; make a hole in a hot bed something cooled , and put the pot therein , where let it remain without watering untill the roots spring , then take it out and place it under a South wall ; in dry weather let it not want water , and about the middle of September house it , for this plant will not endure either wet or cold , and if planted with rank earth next the root , more apt to off-set than to bear flowers . All the Muscaries except the Ash-colour , must be planted in a warm place and defended in Winter , the rest are hardy and require no attendance . We have some other sorts of Hyacinths which yearly lose their fibres ; the chiefest of which are these that follow .

Hyacinthus Botroides caeraleus amoenus .

THe sky-coloured Grape-flower cometh up with three or four small guttered green leaves , from a round white root , with a stalk about six inches high , bearing at the top thereof many flowers close set together like unto a small bunch of Grapes , in form like those of the Muscari , but lesser , of a fine pale blew or sky colour , and of a soft sweet scent .

Hyacinthus Botroides flore albo .

THe white Grape-flower is in all things like the former , but that the leaves are green , and the flowers white , growing somewhat thicker on the stalk .

Hyacinthus Botroides flore rubente .

THe blush Grape-flower is like unto the last , but bigger in all the parts thereof , and the flowers of a pale bleak blush-colour .

Hyacinthus Botroides ramosus .

THe branched Grape-flower differeth from all the former , in that the flowers grow along the stalk in branches , being of a blew colour , and bigger than any of the other , as the roots , leaves , and stalks also are .

Hyacinthus Orientalis major dictus Zumbul Indi .

THe great Oriental Jacinth , or Zumbul Indi , is that great Jacinth that cometh up with a specled stalk , and great broad long green leaves , bearing on a strong stalk many fair long blewish purple flowers , opening into six small leaves , which turn back again ( as all the Oriental Jacinths do ) the root is big and round , covered with a reddish purple coat ; of this kinde there is one that beareth fair double flowers , and there are many sorts besides those whose descriptions follow , the which differ chiefly in the colour of the flowers ; in some they are of a pale , and some of a deeper blew colour , with stripes down the backs of the leaves of the flowers , some are wholly white , and others of a fine blush-colour ; they are all sweet , and their roots may be taken up and kept dry , as well as those of Tulips , which causeth them to be the more respected .

Hyacinthus Coelestis .

THe Celestial Hyacinth is bigger in all the parts thereof than the Zumbull Indi ; it commonly cometh up with two stalks , each bearing many large flowers , like those of the last , but bigger , and of a fine pale blew or sky colour ; of this kind there are two or three others , that bear large flowers on big tall stalks , some of a deeper , and others of a lighter blew colour , some white , others blush , and perhaps all these raised from the seeds of the Zumbull Indi , as others may be from the seeds of them .

Hyacinthus Orientalis Brumalis , sive praecox flore albo .

THe early white Oriental Jacinth , from a short round big root ( sometimes before Winter ) rise up long green leaves like those of the last , as the flowers are also , but lesser , and of a pure white colour ; this is commonly in flower in the end of January ; there is another of this kind that beareth purple flowers , that come as early , for which property they are chiefly respected .

Hyacinthus Orientalis flore pleno caeruleo .

THe fair double blew Oriental Jacinth , is in all respects like the other blew Jacinths , the chiefest difference is in the flowers , those of this kind being fair and double , of a good blew colour , and consisting of two or three rows of leaves spread open ; there is another of this kind that beareth double blew flowers , but not so fair , and more apt to come deformed .

Hyacinthus Orientalis candidus flore pleno .

THe pure white double oriental Jacinth differeth from the single white , in that the flowers of this are thick and double , of a pure snow-white colour , and opening much better than the best kind of the double blew , for which it is much esteemed .

Hyacinthus stellaris flore cinereo .

THe Ash-coloured starry Jacinth hath a round white root , and green leaves , spreading on the ground like those of the common Harebell , or English Hyacinth , the stalk beareth very many small star-like flowers in a thick bush , bigger below than above , of a pale blew or Ash-colour , and very sweet .

Hyacinthus stellatus vulgaris .

THe common blew starry Jacinth , riseth out of the ground with two or three brown leaves , which be long and hollow , of a whitish green on the upper side , brown underneath , and half round , the stalk beareth at the top thereof five or six small star-like flowers , consisting of six leaves , of a fair blew colour .

Hyacinthus stellatus flore albo .

THe white starry Jacinth hath leaves like the former , but of a fresher green colour , the flowers are of the same fashion and white , a little inclining to blush ; there is one of this kind with snow-white flowers , and there is another that beareth blush flowers .

Hyacinthus Stellatus praecox .

THe early Starry Jacinth hath broader and fresher green leaves than the former , with blew flowers ; the flowers of this are bigger , and of a brighter blew colour ; there is one of this kinde likewise that beareth white flowers , and another more rare than any of the former of this kinde , the flowers whereof being as large as those of the first blew , and of a fine blush colour .

The Grape-flowers are in flower in April , the great Oriental Jacinth betimes in March , the white and purple early Winter Jacinths in January or in the beginning of February , the other Oriental Jacinths , both single and double , flower in the end of March and beginning of April ; the Ash-coloured starry Jacinth flowreth in April , and the other Starry Jacinths in February and beginning of March .

They all lose their fibres , and may be yearly removed in June or July , but none of them ( except the Oriental ) would be kept long out of ground ; they are hardy , and require small attendance ; most of them bear seeds , which being sowed and preserved as that of Tulips , produce new diversities . There are some others which I have purposely omitted , as the Woolly Jacinth , which I have had many years , but never could see one flower of it , it is common in Spain , but will not flower in England ; and of these described the best are the fair double blew , and the double white Oriental Jacinths , the Celestial , the white , and the blush Starry Jacinths : the other are pretty flowers , but of less beauty and esteem .

CHAP. XII .

Ornithogalum .

THe Star of Bethlehem , and the varieties thereof , are next to be handled , some of them are fine flowers , and others not worth the naming , the which we will pass over , and describe the best onely .

Ornithogalum Arabicum .

THe Star-flower of Arabia hath many long green leaves , like unto those of the Oriental Jacinth , from whence riseth up a round green stalk , about two foot high , bearing at the top thereof upon long foot stalks , divers large flowers , with small short green-pointed leaves at the bottom of each of them , consisting of six pure white leaves , with six white threds about it , tipt with yellow pendents : the root is great and white , with a flat bottom , the fibres being gone , which it yearly loseth : this is very impatient of frost , and will not abide with us , unless it be carefully preserved and defended in Winter .

Ornithogalum maximum album .

THe greatest white Star of Bethlehem hath many fair broad long fresh green leaves , which spring early out of the ground , and continue from the beginning of February to the end of May , at which time they begin to fade , and the stalk with the head of flowers beginneth to rise , and before they are blown the leaves will be all gone : the stalk when in flower , is a yard high , green , smooth and round , bearing at the top a great bush , or spike of flowers , upon long foot-stalks , which grow shorter and shorter to the top of the stalk : the flowers open by degrees , first below and so upwards , consisting of six white leaves , spread open like a Star , with a white umbone in the middle , beset with many threds tipt with yellow ; the root is great , and hath a flat bottom like the former , but more hardy to endure , and apter to increase , whereby it is now grown common .

Ornithogalum Neapolitanum .

THe Star-flower of Naples riseth out of the ground early , with four or five long hollow pointed whitish green leaves , standing round together ; the stalk riseth two foot high , bearing many flowers , each containing six long narrow leaves , of a shining white colour on the inside , and of a whitish green on the outside , turning back toward the stalks , with six other small leaves in the middle , standing round together like a cup , with a white pointell , and six threds tipt with yellow : the root is white , and increaseth too much , and therefore requireth to be yearly taken up and freed from off-sets , wherewith it is apt to be pestered .

Ornithogalum Luteum .

THe yellow Star of Bethlehem cometh up at the first with one long round greenish leaf , which opening a little above the ground , yieldeth another small leaf shorter than the first , from whence riseth a stalk four or five inches high , bearing at the top four or five small green leaves , and among them the like number of small yellow star-like flowers , with a small greenish line down the backs of the leaves , and some small reddish threds in the middle ; the root is small , round , white and cleer , and although it yearly loseth the fibres , it will not endure to be kept but very little time out of the ground .

Ornithogalum Aethiopicum .

THe Star-flower of Ethiopia hath green leaves a foot long , and an inch broad , wooly when broken , and a stalk a cubit high , bearing from the middle to the top many large white star-like flowers , wi●h some yellowness in the bottoms of them , with a three-square head compassed with white threds , tipt with yellow ; the root is thick , round and white , almost as tender as that of the first .

There are some other varieties , as the great white spiked Star of Bethlehem , which is like the former great white , but lesser , and not so good , the flowers grow in a larger spike , but much thinner set on the stalk ; there are some others that bear small white flowers , not worth retaining .

The Arabian flowreth in May , the second in June , that of Naples and the yellow in April , but the Aethiopian not untill August .

They lose their fibres , and the roots may be taken up as soon as the stalks are dry , and kept out of the ground untill the end of September , except those of the yellow , which will not endure out of the earth but a little time : that of Arabia , and that of Ethiopia , are both tender and will not endure the extremity of our long frosty winters , therefore they must be planted in boxes , in rich hot sandy earth , and housed in winter ; the yellow may be set among other tender roots that require to be covered and defended from frosts in winter , the other are hardy , and may be set in any place among other roots that lose their fibres .

CHAP. XIII .

Moly .

WIld garlick yieldeth some diversities worthy of entertainment , the which are next to be described , and first we will begin with that so much celebrated by the antient Poets .

Moly Homericum .

THe great Moly of Homer riseth up with two or three great , thick , long hollow leaves , of a whitish green colour , like that of the Tulip , with some small bulbs growing sometimes on the ends of the leaves , but commonly betwixt them , and on the stalk neer the ground , which being set will produce a plant of the same kind ; the stalk riseth up a yard high , naked , round and smooth , bearing a great umbel or tuft , of small star-like purplish flowers , upon equal foot-stalks , which continue long before they decay . The root is very great , white , and of the smell of Garlick .

Moly Indicum , sive Caucafon .

THe Indian Moly hath leaves like the former , but shorter and broader , the stalk riseth up not so high as the leaves , without any flowers , but onely bearing a cluster of reddish scaly bulbs , each as big as an Acorn , standing on foot-stalks , which being set , will bring a Plant of the same kind ; the root is great and white , covered with a dark-coloured coat , and increaseth but little under ground .

Moly montanum Pannonicum .

THe Moly of Hungary is of two sorts , the first hath three or four broad long green leaves , which are carried up with the stalk a foot high one above another , having at the top some sad reddish bulbs , and between them long foot-stalks , with flowers of the fashion of those of Homers Moly , and of a pale purple-colour , the root is small but very apt to increase ; the second Moly of Hungary is like the first , but that the green leaves are smaller , and the stalk beareth a greater cluster of dark green bulbs ; the flowers are like those of the first in fashion , colour , and manner of growing , and the root is covered with a dark purple coat .

Moly Serpentinum .

SErpents Moly is like the former , but of much more beauty and regard , for that the bulbs on the head of the stalk are redder , the stalk lower , and the small green leaves twine and crawl , from whence it took the name ; the flowers that grow among the bulbs , are more beautiful than those of either of the two former , and the scent not so strong , the root is small and round , increasing into many small round roots , no bigger than a small Pease .

Moly montanum flore luteo .

THe yellow Moly hath two long broad leaves , when it will flower , otherwise but one , of the colour and near of the bigness of those of the Tulip , between which cometh up a slender stalk , bearing at the top a tuft of yellow star-like flowers , greenish on the back , and with yellow threads in the middle ; the root is whitish , apt to increase , and smelleth strong of Garlick , as the flowers and leaves do also .

Moly montanum latifolium Hispanicum .

THe Spanish purple Moly hath two long broad leaves , like the last described , betwixt which the stalk riseth up two foot high , bearing at the top many star-like flowers , of a fine delayed purple colour , with threads of the same colour tipt with yellow ; near the ground it yieldeth bulbs , by which it may be easily increased ; this hath no scent of Garlick in any part .

Moly pyxidatum argenteum Hispanicum .

THe Spanish silver-cupped Moly hath two or three long rush-like leaves , which pass away when the stalk is risen up to his height , which will be three foot or more , bearing a great head of flowers , which after some time spread much open ; the flowers grow on long foot-stalks of a silver-colour , with lines on both sides the leaves , in fashion small and hollow like a cup ; the root is white and cleer , and not very apt to increase , and without any ill scent in any part thereof .

Moly Dioscorideum .

DIoscorides his Moly hath a small transparent root , covered with a thick yellowish skin , from whence springeth up three or four narrow Grassy leaves , with a stalk a foot and half high , bearing at the top a tuft of milk-white flowers , like unto those of Ramsons , with little or no scent of Garlick . There is another of this sort that is lesser , and the leaves of the flowers rounder pointed ; these and the yellow are the most common of all the kinds of Moly .

Moly Muscatum Monspeliense .

THe sweet Moly of Montpelier hath four or five small leaves , no bigger than bents , with a stalk about a foot high , bearing many small star-like white flowers , which if the end of Somer be hot and dry , smell like Musk or Civet , the root is small , very tender , and must be carefully defended from Frosts in Winter .

Homers Moly flowereth in May , and continueth untill July ; the Indian Moly beareth the head of bulbs in June and July , and all the rest flower about the same time , except the last , whose time is late in September .

These lose their fibres , and may be taken up after the stalks are dry , and the biggest roots preserved to set again , casting away the small off-sets , wherewith many of them are very apt to be pestred , especially if they stand long unremoved ; they are all hardy and will thrive in any soil , except those whose tenderness is expressed in the description ; the flowers of most of them are neither fair nor sweet , and onely preserved by those that affect varieties ; their best use is to adorn flower-pots , where they will continue if the water be renewed , a long time , and set off other flowers of the same season , being placed among them . There are some others of this family not worth mentioning , for those described are enough , if not too many , unless they were of a more worthy generation .

CHAP. XIV .

Asphodelus .

THe Asphodill , for that it beareth star-like flowers , is next to be described ; there are some few diversities of them , of which we will take the best onely , and leave the rest as neither worth collecting nor retaining .

Asphodelus major albus ramosus .

THe great white branched Asphodill hath many crawling hollow three-square leaves , sharp-pointed , lying on the ground about the root ; the stalk from the middest of them riseth round , smooth and naked , divided at the top into many branches more or less , according to the age of the Plant , bearing many star-like flowers , consisting of six leaves , whitish on the inside , with some yellow threads in the middle , and stripped with a pale purple line down the back of every leaf ; the root is composed of many thick cloggs , biggest in the middle , and smaller at both ends , fastened together at the head , of a grayish dark colour on the outside , and yellow within .

Asphodelus albus non ramosus .

THe white unbranched Asphodill is like the former , but that the stalk is without branches , and the flowers whiter , without any line or stripe on the back sides of the leaves , the cloggs of the roots are smaller and fewer than those of the other .

Asphodelus major flore carneo .

THe blush-coloured Asphodill differeth from the last , in that the leaves are a little spotted , and the flowers of a blush-colour , which causeth it to be more esteemed .

Asphodelus major flore albo striato .

THe great white striped Asphodill hath many long and broad green leaves , which for the most part lye on the ground ; the stalk riseth up smooth , like the white unbranched Asphodill , with many such like flowers , of a whitish silver colour , striped down the back of every leaf with a purple line ; they grow on the stalk in a long spike , first flowering below , and so upwards by degrees ; the root is a great bulbe , whereunto are fastened divers cloggs , like those of the former .

Asphodelus minimus albus .

THe least white Asphodill hath four or five narrow long green leaves , almost three-square , with a small stalk about a foot high , without branches , having at the top some white flowers , like those of the former , and striped on both sides , every leaf with a purple line ; the roots are many cloggs , smaller than any of the other .

Asphodelus minor albus sive fistulosus .

THe little hollow white Asphodill hath many long hollow green leaves , growing thick together , from among which come up many round stalks , bearing from the middle to the top divers white star-like flowers , with purple lines on the back of them , like those of the white branched Asphodill ; the roots are not in cloggs like the former , but small white strings fastened together at the head ; this is a tender Plant , and apt to perish if it be not carefully preserved from Frost and wet in Winter .

Asphodelus luteus minor , sive Hastula Regia .

THe small yellow Asphodill , or Kings spear , hath many long narrow-edged green leaves , trailing on the ground ; the stalk riseth a yard high , set with small long leaves to the middle , where the flowers begin , being many yellow and star-like ; the roots are many long yellow strings which run in the ground and increase very much ; this is the most common , and least esteemed of all the Asphodills .

They do all flower in May and June , except the two last ; the first of them flowereth in August and September , and the other in July .

They may be taken up , and the roots parted , when the stalks are dry , and presently set again , for they would not be kept long out of ground , and except the last white whose tenderness is expressed in the description , they are all hardy and will thrive in any place ; most of them bring seeds , which is not worth the sowing , for that it will be many years before they bear flowers , and no variety is to be expected from them , and for gaining new Plants , the old increase fast enough .

There is another kind of Plant , called the Lilly Asphodill , whereof that Sedg , which beareth soon-fading dark yellowish Lilly-like flowers , commonly called the Day-Lilly , or the flower for a day , common in every Country-Garden , is a kind . There are three other sorts worthy to be inserted , two of them being very rare and of much esteem .

Lilia Asphodelus luteus .

THe yellow Lilly Asphodill riseth up with many long thin Sedgy leaves , out of the middle of them cometh up a naked stalk , bearing at the top thereof four or five small Lilly-like yellow flowers , blowing one after another like the day Lilly , but continuing many days before they fade : the leaves dye to the ground before Winter , and the roots are many long yellow strings very much increasing .

Lilia Asphodelus flore albo .

THe Lilly Asphodill with a white flower is in all the parts thereof like the former , the leaves are of a fresher green colour , and the flowers snow-white , like unto the Savoy Spiderwort , but that the stalk is higher , and the flowers bigger .

Lilia Asphodelus flore carneo .

THe Lilly Asphodill with a blush , or flesh-coloured-flower , is very like the white , the greatest difference is in the flowers , which in this are of a fine bright blush or flesh-colour ; this and the white are very rare in England and France , but frequently found in many Gardens in Germany .

Phalangium .

THe Spider-wort is next in order to be treated of , there are some diversities of them , but we will set out the best onely , and first begin with that so like the white Lilly Asphodill , that the one may easily be mistaken for the other .

Phalangium Alobrogicum .

THe Savoy Spider-wort riseth up with four or five green leaves , like unto those of the Lilly Asphodill , but shorter , and of a whiter green colour , out of the middle of them riseth up a stiff round stalk , about a foot high , bearing at the top one above another , seven or eight flowers , like in form to those of the Lilly Asphodill , but lesser , and of a pure white colour , with some threds in the middle tipt with yellow , and a small forked pointel ; the roots are long white thick strings , joyned together at the head , increasing reasonable well .

Phalangium majus Italicum album .

THe great Italian white Spider-wort hath many long narrow leaves , spread on the ground , with a reasonable tall stalk , bearing at the top many star-like white flowers , like , but bigger than those of the common kind next described ; the roots are many white strings running under ground , and increasing as well as the former .

Phalangium non ramosum vulgare .

THe common unbranched Spider-wort hath small leaves like grass , but of a whitish green colour , from among which riseth one , two or more stalks almost two foot high , bearing at the top many small white star-like flowers ; the roots are many long white strings , like those of the last described , but smaller .

Phalangium Virginianum .

THe Virginian Spider-wort hath a stringy root , and broad grass-like leaves , the stalk riseth up in joynts , with some short leaves at the top thereof ; out of a tuft of those green leaves , come forth the flowers , which are many , hanging down their heads at the first , and turning up as they come to blow , each flower containing three leaves , layed flat , of a blew colour , with red threds in the middle , tipt with yellow pendents : they open commonly one after another , and may be called a flower for a day , for that they shut at night , and never open again . It is a great increaser , and thereby grown common in almost every garden ; this was first brought unto us out of Virginia , since we have received thence several other varieties , differing chiefly in the colour of the flowers , for besides the blew described , we have another that beareth bigger and fairer blew flowers , two that have red flowers , a bigger and lesser , and one with snow-white flowers ; in some years the flowers of the greater red will come double .

The Lilly Asphodills flower in the end of May , or beginning of June , and the Spider-wort about the same time , the common unbranched kind is the first , and the branched the last , the two best Spider-worts , that of Savoy , and the Italian , flower together about the end of May , the Virginians a moneth later .

These plants are all hardy , and will live and thrive in almost any soyl , but best in that which is moist ; the time to take them up and transplant them , is in August , the roots may be parted as they grow in several heads , and set again , where they may stand two or three years unremoved : they bear seeds , from whence plants of the best kind may be raised , that is of the white and blush Lilly Asphodills , Savoy , and Italian Spider-worts ; it will be four or five years from the sowing , before they come to bear flowers , yet it is worth the labour and attendance , for that seeds of the two Lilly Asphodills , may be obtained from places far distant better than plants . Having done with these flower-bearing plants , before we pass to the rest of the Bulbous roots , the varieties of Paeonies are to be handled , which shall be the subject of our next discourse .

CHAP. XV.

Paeonia .

THe Peonie is of two sorts , Male and Female : The Male is to be known from all the rest , in that the leaves are constantly whole without any division , and the roots are long and round ; of this there is but one sort , and that preserved more for its Physical properties , than for the beauty of the flowers : the Female is of many sorts , some bearing single , and others double flowers ; the leaves of them all are cut in and divided on the edges more or less , and the roots are more tuberous , growing in clogs , like those of the Asphodill , with many round pieces fastened to the head , with smaller strings . There are four sorts that bear single flowers , which are the Male kind with purplish red single flowers , the common Female with smaller and darker purplish single red flowers , the blush with large blush flowers , and the single Piony of Constantinople , whose flowers are larger than those of the Male kind , and of a deeper red colour , without any shew of purple ; these are of small esteem , yet the two last for variety may be admitted ; those that bear double flowers are best worthy to be regarded , the which we will particularly describe , and first begin with that best known .

Paeonia foemina vulgaris flore pleno rubro .

THe double red Peonie hath many stalks , and store of leaves divided or cut in at the edges , of a dark green colour , the flowers grow on the tops of the stalks , which are very large , thick , and double , of a full deep red colour , and seldome continuing above eight days before they shed their leaves ; the roots are many long clogs fastened to the head or main root , with smaller strings ; this is so common and well known , that it needeth no description .

Poeonia foemina flore pleno purpureo .

THe double purple Peony differeth from the last in that it is smaller in all the parts thereof , and the leaves of a whiter green colour ; the flowers are double , consisting of some broad , and many narrow leaves , of a fine bright shining purple colour , which fall away like those of the former .

Paeonia foemina flore pleno rubescente .

THe double Carnation Peony hath lower and stiffer stalks than the former , with smaller leaves , divided or cut-in in some places on the edges , as all the Female kinds are ; the flowers are neither so big , nor so double by much , as those of the common red , of a bright shining carnation colour at the first opening , but dayly declining and waxing paler , untill it come to be almost white , never shedding the leaves , but abiding long , and at last wither on the stalk ; the roots are like the former , but smaller , and of a brighter brown colour on the outside . I have one of this kind that beareth large , thick , and double flowers , consisting of many long round pointed leaves , the ends and sides thereof turn white in one hot day , and continue so with a red stripe in the middle many days , then wither on the stalks .

Paeonia foemina flore pleno albicante .

THe double blush , or white Peonie , is in the manner of growing like unto the last described , but taller , the green leaves something larger , more veined and ribbed than those of any the other sorts ; the flowers are much bigger than those of the last , and more thick and double , which at the first opening are of a fine light blush colour , but by standing blown , in a few days will turn to be of a pale white , and so continue a long time before they decay , the leaves not falling off , but withering on the stalk , like those of the last , and this is accounted the best of all the double Peonies which have hitherto come to our knowledge ; I have often heard of a double Peonie that hath snow white flowers from the first opening thereof , and so abiding constant to the last , but have not seen any such , and therefore doubt the verity of the report .

Paeonia faemina flore pleno variegata .

THe double striped Peonie in the manner of growing is like the last , but something smaller in all the parts thereof ; the flowers are double , of a fine red colour , striped and variegated with white , abiding long in flower , and at last the leaves wither but fall not off .

They all flower in May , sooner or later , as they stand more or less in the Sun .

All the Peonies are hardy , and being set in good ground , will continue and abide many years without removing ; they are commonly set in great tufts in the middle or corners of knots , or on borders , and may be taken up , parted , and planted again , from September unto the end of October ; those roots that have sprouts or buds at the ends of them , are best to be planted ; for those clogs or roots that are without them , will ly in the ground and never spring at all , except those of the double purple , every piece whereof will grow , being aptest to increase of all other ; in some years the double kinds do bring some seeds to perfection , which being set or sowed very thin , in September or October , where they may stand unremoved until they flower , which will be about seaven years from the sowing , herhaps some new varieties may be produced , especially from the seeds of the Carnation , Blush , Purple , and variegated kinds .

And now we will return to the rest of the blubous and tuberous-rooted plants , remaining to be described , and set them down in order according to their similitude and several relations to each other , and first of that whick flowreth first , though vulgarly accounted last .

CHAP. XVI .

Colchicum .

THe Meadow-Saffron , whereof there are many sorts , some of them for the beauty of their flowers , deserving place in this Collection , the which shall be described , the rest bearing single flowers wholly of one colour , and neither eminently striped , nor checkered , we will pass over as not worth the trouble .

Colchicum versicolor .

THe party-coloured Meadow-Saffron , and all the rest , except those of the Spring bring forth their flowers in Autum before the green leaves appear , which being kept back by Winter , come not up untill February ; the flowers of this come out of the ground late in the year , three , four or more from one root , standing on very short foot-stalks , composed of six leaves , whereof some are white , others of a pale purple , and some of them half white and the rest purple , with some threds or chives in the middle like unto the Crocus or Safforn-flowers of the Spring ; after the flowers are past , the green leaves do not presently come forth , little of them appearing above ground before the end of February , which at first are of a dark brown colour , but with the Spring grow to be large long and green , three or four standing upon a short round weak green foot-stalk ; in the middle of the leaves the seed-vessel appeareth , containing round brown seeds ; the root is something like unto that of the Tulip , but commonly bigger , and having that eminence at the bottom , standing out very long , from whence many fibres shoot into the ground .

Colchicum variegatum .

THe varigated Meadow-Saffron differeth from the last , in that the Flowers rise higher , and are striped with a deeper purple , upon a pale blush ground , throughout every leaf thereof , which are longer than those of the former , and not so round-pointed ; in the roots and leaves there is no material difference .

Colchicum atropurpureum variegatum .

THe dark purple striped Meadow-Saffron differeth from the other , in that the Flowers at their first appearing are of a pale blush-colour , with small and sharped-pointed leaves , which after a little time become striped and garded with a dark sad purple .

Colchicum variegatum dictum Agrippina .

THe variegated Meadow-Saffron , commonly called Agripina , is of later discovery and more rarity than any of the former , the difference chiefly consisting in the colour and marking of the Flowers , which in this are white and red penached like a Tulip .

Colchicum fritillaricum Ne apolitanum .

THe checkered Meadow-Saffron of Naples hath larger and deeper purplish red Flowers , and more eminently checkered like Fritillary than any other of that sort ( except the next ) whereof there is some diversity , but this is the best ; the root and green leaves differ very little from those of the former .

Colchicum fritillaricum Chiense .

THe checkered Meadow-Saffron of Chio bringeth forth ( late in Autum ) small but beautiful Flowers , of a pale purple colour , thick spotted and checkered with blewish purple ; the green leaves come up in the Spring , which are much smaller than any of the other , commonly three in number , of a fresh green colour , lying on the ground , twining and folding the edges ; the root is like those of the other , but smaller and more tender .

Colchicum flore pleno .

THe double Meadow-Saffron is like the common English kind , that grows plentifully in divers moist Meadows , onely the Flowers of this are double , containing many leaves , of the same pale purplish colour , with some chives tipt with yellow pendents among them .

Colchicum flore pleno purpureo .

THe double purple Meadow-Saffron differeth from the former , in that the Flowers are smaller , the leaves of them sharper pointed , and of deeper purplish red colour .

Colchicum variegatum flore pleno .

THe double varigated Meadow-Saffron is like the first double kind , onely some of the leaves of the double Flower will be striped , and garded with white , upon the pale blush ground .

Colchicum maximum flore pleno .

THe greatest double Meadow-Saffron hath Flowers much bigger , and doubler than any of the former , containing very many round-pointed leaves , of pale purplish blush-colour , spreading open , and forming a gallant double Flower , far transcending any of the former double kinds .

The roots of the Colchicums , being set about the end of August , or beginning of September , will suddainly put forth fibres , and shortly after Flowers , being the first blown from the time of the setting of the dry roots of all others , although vulgarly accounted the last , which are indeed the first that flower , some of them in September , others in October , the first parti-coloured , and that of Chio being commonly the last .

They are easily planted , the roots losing their fibres , which may be taken up as soon as the green leaves are dryed down , and kept out of the ground untill the fore-mentioned time for their planting ; they affect a moist ground , but being hardy will thrive and encrease in almost any soil , onely that of Chio is tender , and will not prosper unless it be planted in a warm place , where it may have the comfort of the Sun and the benefit of shelter from Frosts , wet , and cold in Winter , whereof it is very impatient . I doubt not but other fine varieties may be raised by the sowing of the seeds of the best kinds ; the manner of handling them is the same with that of Tulips , and other bulbous roots that lose their fibres .

CHAP. XVII .

Crocus .

SAffron is of divers sorts , some flowering in the Spring , and others in Autum , whereof the true Saffron is a kind , all the rest are onely entertained for the beauty of their Flowers , which are of three principal colours , white , purple , and yellow , deeper and lighter , bigger and smaller , and some striped , feathered , or flamed , as in the following descriptions is expressed , and first of the white and the varieties thereof .

Crocus albus major .

THe great white Crocus riseth up with narrow long green leaves , with a white line in the middest of them , and as soon as these leaves appear out of the ground , there cometh up in the middle of them , covered with a thin white skin , small low white Flowers , composed of six leaves , with some chives , and a long Saffron pointell in the middle , which never open but when the Sun shines warm upon them ; after the Flowers are past , the green leaves grow longer , and the seeds succeed , which is small and round , contained in a low three-square husk of a yellowish red colour ; the root is small , round and flat , covered with a russet coat ; there is a lesser of this kind that beareth very small white Flowers of little esteem .

Crocus Maesiacus .

THe white Crocus of Masia is like the last great white , but bigger , and bearing more Flowers from one root , but not of so pure a white colour , but rather inclining to yellow ; there is one of this kind , with the bottom of the Flower and part of the stalk of a bright blew colour , and there is another of a pure white colour , with the bottom and stalk blew , of the seeds whereof the next was raised .

Crocus plumatus pallidus .

THe pale feathered Crocus , is something like the last white , but larger , and not so round pointed ; the stalk and bottom of the flower is blew , like unto it ; the three outward leaves on the backs or outsides are all white or silver-colour , and on the insides finely striped with bigger and smaller stripes of pale blewish purple ; the three inner leaves are striped with the same colour , but smaller on both the sides thereof ; this is not so common as many of the other are , and is indeed one of the best we have .

Crocus Episcopalis .

THe Bishops Crocus hath bigger roots and leaves than any of the former ; the flowers are longer and sharper-pointed than those of the last , and variable in their colours , sometimes they will be white finely striped with blew , sometimes the three outer leaves will be blew , and the other three silver-colour striped with blew , and sometimes it will have three leaves white , and the other three pale blew , and all these diversities arising from one root , and the increase thereof .

Crocus Imperialis .

THe Imperial Crocus hath many flowers rising from one root , which are of a silver colour , striped on the backs of the leaves with purple , which when they are open are seen through on the other side ; this increaseth so fast that it is grown very common ; of this kind there are two others , the one bigger , and the other lesser , of the same colour and fashion of marking .

Crocus Regalis .

THe Royal Crocus is like the Imperial , but bigger , and better striped with deep purple , especially on the backs of the three outer leaves ; from the seed of this some varieties have been raised , differing from the original , some being bigger , others lesser , and striped with deeper , or paler purple , but in all these flowers the white hath the mastery , and therefore are joyned next unto those of that colour .

Crocus purpureus minor .

THe small purple Crocus hath narrow green leaves , and small low purple flowers , round-pointed , and dark bottoms , almost black .

Crocus purpureus major .

THe greater purple Crocus hath bigger leaves and roots than the former , the flowers rise higher , and are large , long , and sharp-pointed , of the fame purple colour , with a deep purple bottome .

Crocus purpureus maximus .

THe greatest purple Crocus is like the last in leaves and roots , but bigger , the flowers are the largest of all the kinds of Crocus , of a more bleak purple than the former , and round-pointed ; there is one of this kind that hath the leaves listed about with white , like the Tulip called a Prince .

Crocus Neapolitanus caeruleus .

THe blew Neapolitan Crocus only differeth from the greater purple , in that the flowers of this are of a deep-sky colour , with a dark bottome .

Crocus plumatus purpureus .

THe purple feathered Crocus is like the greater purple , but a little bigger and rounder pointed , the three outer leaves of the flower are of the same purple colour , and feathered with white on both sides thereof , the three inner leaves are thick striped with white upon a paler purple on both sides likewise , and this is accounted the best of all the sorts have hitherto come to our knowledge .

Crocus purpureus striatus .

THe purple striped Crocus is in fashion like the common yellow , the flowers are of the same size and season , of a reddish purple colour , veined and striped throughout every leaf on both sides with a deeper purple , much resembling the flowers of the true Autumn Saffron , but of a deeper and redder colour .

Crocus purpureus striatus major .

THe great purple striped Crocus is like the greater purple , the flowers are of a pale purple colour , with three great stripes down the backs of the three outer leaves , of a deeper purple , and of something a lighter purple on the inside , as the three inner leaves are also , and a little striped on the backs neer the bottome .

Crocus purpureus flammeus major .

THe greater purple flamed Crocus hath fresher green leaves than the other purples , the flowers are of a middle sise , of a whitish pale purple on the outside , and deeper on the inside , striped and flamed throughout every leaf thereof ; there is another of this kind that is lesser in all the parts thereof , the flowers of a deeper purple , flamed with fair broad stripes on the inside the leaves , from the middle to the edges ; these give good seeds , which being sowed yield varieties .

Crocus luteus sive Maesiacus .

THe yellow Crocus is so common and well known that it needeth no description , it beareth many reasonable large round-pointed flowers springing from one root , in some of a deep yellow colour like a cole of fire , and in others more pale , and there is one whose flowers are of a Brimston colour ; the roots of these are bigger than any of the former , and increase too fast ; this is the true Crocus of Mesia , and the white so called borrows that name from it , in respect of the resemblance it hath thereunto .

Crocus luteus maximus .

THe greatest yellow Crocus is like the former , being a variety raised from the seeds thereof ; the flowers are of a deep yellow colour , but as large as the greatest purple , for which it is esteemed .

Crocus flavus striatus .

THe yellow striped Crocus hath small bleak yellow flowers , with three stripes of dull purple on the backs of the three outer leaves , the green leaves are narrower and longer than any of the former .

Crocus luteus versicolor .

THe Cloth of gold Crocus hath short whitish green leaves ; the flowers are of a fair yellow colour with three purple stripes on the backs of the outer leaves , all the rest of the flowers are wholly yellow ; which are not so plentiful as the former yellow , bearing but two or three flowers from one root ; the roots may be known from any others , being covered with a hard netted peeling , or shell ; of this sort there is another , whose outer leaves are on the backs wholly of a dark purple , except the edges which are yellow , and is therefore called the Duke Crocus , from the Duke Tulip ; and there is one other sort with netted roots that hath pale yellow flowers inclining to white ; with blewish purple stripes up the backs of the outer leaves , and part of the stalk next the flower , of the same colour .

These are the best varieties of Spring Crocus that hitherto have come to our knowledge , there are some others inferiour to these , which I have purposely omitted , and I doubt not but many other varieties may be raised from the seeds of these , being sowed and nursed up by industrious lovers of this delight ; and as in the Colchicum , there are some that bring forth their flowers in the Spring , so there are some Crocuses that flower in Autumn , which are next to be inserted .

Crocus verus .

THe true Saffron springeth up with many long narrow leaves , and after them the flowers , in form like the former , of a reddish purple colour ; in the middle of the flowers there are some small yellow chives standing upright , which are unprofitable , as those of all the other kinds , but besides these each flower hath two , three , or four greater and longer chives hanging down upon or between the leaves , which are of a fiery red colour , and the true blades of Saffron , the which only being picked from the flowers , pressed between two papers , and after dried upon a Kiln , or otherwise , is that Saffron commonly sold in shops : the roots are bigger than those of any other sort of Crocus , and covered with a hairy skin , easily distinguished from all others .

Crocus Byzantinus argenteus .

THe silver-coloured Autumn Crocus cometh up in October , like the Crocus of the Spring ; first the green leaves appear , and then the flower , commonly one , and seldom two ; the three outer leaves are pale blew , or silver-colour , and the other three more white and lesser , with some yellow chives in the middle , and a long pointell feathered at the top ; the root is round and covered with a russet coat .

Crocus Pyrenaeus purpureus .

THe purple mountain Crocus riseth up like a Colchicum before the leaves ; commonly with one flower , and sometimes two one after another , standing on long foot-stalks , of a violet purple colour , and almost as large as the biggest purple of the Spring , with some yellow chives in the middle , and a long feathered topt pointell ; the green leaves succeed the flowers , sometimes appearing before Winter , but most usually not untill the Spring ; the root is small and white like that of the lesser purple .

Crocus montanus Autumnalis .

THe Autum mountain Crocus springeth later than any of the former , about the end of October , with three or four short green leaves , and after them the flowers , which are of a pale bleak blew colour , standing on short foot-stalks , scarcely appearing above ground at the first , but afterwards grow a little higher ; the root is great , with a flat bottom , covered with a dark-gray coat , and increasing very little .

These are all the Autumn kinds hitherto discovered ; those of the Spring are in flower one after another , and many of the best together , from the middle of February unto the middle of March ; the Duke Crocus , and those with netted roots being commonly the first , and the greatest purple the last ; those of Autumn flower from the beginning of September to the end of October , one after another , in order as they stand described .

All these several sorts of Crocus , both of the Spring and Autumn , lose their fibres with their leaves , and may then be taken up and kept dry ; those of Autumn until August , and of the Spring untill October ; they are hardy and will prosper in any place ; the Vernal increase exceedingly , if they stand any time unremoved , as the true Saffron doth , which is taken up every third year , the other Autumnal increase very little ; the best place to plant Spring Crocus , is close up to a wall or pale , or on the edges of boarded borders round about the Garden , mingling the colours of those of a season together , as the whites with the purples , the best Cloth of Gold with the Royal , the deep purple feathered with the lighter , and so of the rest ; by observation most of them may be distinguished by the roots , and so placed according to the fancy of the Planter , but the fore-mentioned places are the best , for that few other flowers appear untill they are past ; for should they be set among Tulips ( as some use to do ) the Grassy leaves after the flowers are gone , would more trouble and disgrace the place , than the flowers did delight and adorn it ; many more varieties than are yet discovered , may be raised from the seeds of the best of these , being sowed in September , and every other year in July removed and set wider , untill they bear flowers , making the ground light and rich , into which they are transplanted , which will be a great addition unto them .

CHAP. XVIII .

Iris bulbosa .

THe bulbous Flower-de-luce is of two sorts , the one bigger , and the other lesser in all the parts thereof , the first is called Iris bulbosa latifolia , the broad-leaved bulbous Iris , or Flower-de-luce , whereof there are many fine varieties ; the other is called Iris bulbosa tenuifolia , the narrow-leaved bulbous Flower-de-luce , of which there are more diversities than in the former , but most of them of less esteem . Before we proceed to the descriptions of these , there are two other sorts of Flower-de-luces deserve to be mentioned , and first that called

Iris bulbosa prima Clusii latifolia .

THe first great bulbous Flower-de-luce of Clusins , before the long , broad , flaggy , thin green leaves rise up to half their height or length , putteth forth two or three flowers from the middle of them , standing on short weak foot-stalks , each flower consisting of nine leaves , as all Flower-de-luces do , whereof those three that stand upright are short and closed together , the three that fall down turn up the ends , and the three arched leaves , which in other Flower-de-luces cover the bottoms of them stand up , parted into two ends , in some white , but in most of a sky-colour , with a long stripe in each of the three falling leaves ; and all these diversities have been found in this flower , although there be but one kinde thereof , altering in colour according to the nourishment it receiveth , as it hapneth in divers other Plants . After the flowers are past , the green leaves grow longer ; the root is somthing big , round , and white , covered with brown skins , having two or three long thick roots growing under it , from whence many small fibres shoot into the ground .

Iris Persica .

THe Persian Iris , or Flower-de-luce , cometh up with one , two , or three flowers , according to the age of the Plant , as soon as the green leaves begin to appear above the ground , which after the flowers are past grow broad , long , and flaggy , like those of the former ; the flowers stand on weak short foot-stalks , composed of nine leaves , the three that turn down are of a pale sky-colour , with a large spot of brown purple , almost black , on the ends thereof , with another spot of deep yellow above it , streaming along the middle of these leaves under the arches , with many small spots of the same dark purple-colour on both the sides thereof ; the three arched leaves that cover the lower part of the falling leaves , are of the same pale sky-colour with the ridge , but a little blewer , and the ends parted in two pieces and turned up ; the three other leaves which in other Flower-de-luces stand up , and are called the top leaves , in this are very small and turn down towards the stalk , of the same pale sky-colour that is in the arched leaves ; the root is like that of the former .

The first is said to flower in its natural Country in January and February , but with us not untill April , and most usually in May , the other flowereth with us in the end of February , or beginning of March .

The first is a tender Plant , and must be planted in a warm place , and defended from Frosts in Winter , the other is more hardy , and will grow and bear flowers plentifully in any good soil ; after the leaves are dryed down , and about the time that Tulips are taken up , the roots of these may be removed , but in the taking of them up , care must be had that the long roots that grow under the bulb be not broken ; they may be kept dry untill September , and then parted and planted again in good rich earth , and in a warm place , where they may stand three years unremoved , but if you take them up every other year , they will bear the better .

Iris bulbosa major , sive Anglica caerulea .

THe English blew bulbous Flower-de-luce riseth up with five or six big thick long leaves , crested on the back , and hollow on the other side , blunt at the ends , and of a whitish green colour , out of the middle whereof the stalk riseth about two foot high , bearing at the top out of a thin skinny hose , one , and sometimes two flowers , composed of nine leaves , three turned downwards , longer and broader than any of the other , each having a yellow spot about the middle of the broadest part of the leaf , as in all others of this kind that follow ; it hath three other small and arched leaves , covering the lower parts of the falling leaves , turning up the ends , which are divided into two parts ; and the other three leaves standing upright , very small at the bottom , and of the breadth of a six pence at the top ; the whole flower in this , except the yellow spot , is of a bleak heavy blew colour ; the seed is round and of a yellowish brown colour , contained in three-square husks , wherein if it be stirred when it is ripe it will rattle ; the root is big and long , covered with a brown stringy coat , this is the most common and the worst of all others , the rest that follow are fine flowers , and some of them very rare .

Iris bulbosa major flore caeruleo elegantior .

THe great bulbous Iris with a rich blew flower , is in all things like the former , except the colour of the flower , which in this is a rich shining blew colour , far excelling the other , and having that spot which is in the lower leaves of all these Flower-de-luces , of a deep yellow inclining to an Orenge .

Iris bulbosa major flore caeruleo variegata sive chamoletta .

THe blew striped Flower-de-luce is like the first , the flowers of the same blew colour , but diversly marked and striped throughout every leaf thereof , with a dark violet purple colour , resembling watered Chamolet .

Iris bulbosa major purpurea .

THe great purple bulbous Flower-de-luce hath larger flowers than the first common kind , the whole flower except the yellow spot , is of a reddish murry purple colour .

Iris bulbosa major flore purpureo versicolor .

THe great purple variable bulbous Flower-de-luce hath the flowers somewhat lesser than the former , and of a rich murrey purple colour , with a small yellow spot in the falling leaves , marked with deeper brown purple , almost black , upon a lighter purple , like watered Chamolet , and therefore by some called brown purpur Chamolet , and the former the blew Chamolet , by which names the Walloons brought them over out of Flanders .

Iris bulbosa major flore cinereo .

THe great Ash-coloured bulbous Flower-de-luce hath one or two flowers on a stalk , as big as the first blew , which are of an Ash or Lavender colour with a yellow spot in the three falling leaves .

Iris bulbosa major flore cinereo striata .

THe great Ash-coloured striped bulbous Iris is like the last , only the flowers of this being of the same colour are striped and veined all over with small lines of purple .

Iris bulbosa major versicolor .

THe great variable coloured bulbous Flower-de-luce hath the three falling leaves of the flower of a pale silver-colour , with a circle of ash-colour about the yellow spot , the arches are of the same silver-colour , ridged with ash-colour , and the top leaves also striped and veined with blew .

Iris bulbosa major flore rubente .

THe great pale red or Peach-coloured bulbous Flower-de-luce is more rare than any of the former ; the flowers are in fashion like those of the purple , and of a pale red colour like unto the blossome of a Peach , with a small yellow spot in each of the three falling leaves .

Iris bulbosa major flore albo .

THe great white bulbous Flower-de-luce is something bigger than the first common blew ; the flowers when they are full-blown are of a pure snow-white colour , with a small yellow spot in the middle of the three falling leaves .

Iris bulbosa major flore albo maximo .

THe great white bulbous Iris with the biggest flower is like the last , but something bigger ; the flowers are longer and larger , of the same snow-white colour , and sometimes the three top-leaves will be a little striped and spotted with a faint purple colour . I have divers blews , murrey , and violet purples , some deeper , and others lighter , all large flowers , which I raised from the seeds of this great white , and one deep blew with small stripes of white through every leaf of the flower , and of more than an hundred , I had but two whites , the one more , the other less striped than the original .

Iris bulbosa major alba variegata .

THe great white striped bulbous Flower-de-luce hath a smaller flower than the first white , of the same pure white colour , and finely striped and marked with veins , stripes , and drops of a shining watchet or blew colour throughout every leaf thereof ; this is by many called the Purcelan Iris , from the colours and manner of marking , resembling that of a China dish .

Iris bulbosa major flore albo & purpureo variegata .

THe great white bulbous Iris striped with purple next to the peach colour is the rarest of all the great bulbous Flower-de luce ; the flowers are almost as large as the first white , of the same pure white colour , and excellently striped and marked through every leaf thereof with purple of the seeds of this I have raised several varieties , whereof two are most considerable , one of them hath a snow-white flower , marked in the falls with dops of purple , and the top-leaves with small stripes , the other is of a deep velvet dark violet purple colour , with small spots and stripes of ash-colour , both in the three falling leaves , and those that stand upright .

Iris bulbosa major flore luteo .

THe great yellow bulbous Flower-de-luce differeth only from the first white , in that the flowers of this are of a fine bright gold-colour , with the spot in the three falling leaves of a deeper yellow , almost orenge .

These are the diversities of the greater bulbous Flower-de-luces , as far forth as hitherto have come to our knowledge ; I doubt not but that there are many more in other Countreys , and more may be raised in our own , by sowing the seeds of those we have , which in ordering is the same with Tulips ; they bring forth their flowers in June , some sooner than others , the blews being first in flower , then the whites , and the purples last .

The roots lose their fibres every year , and must be taken up as soon as they are dry down , or a little before , for if they stay longer in the ground , within a fortnight after flowring , they will put forth new fibres , and then it is too late to stir them ; the roots being taken up in a fit season , may be kept dry untill the beginning of August , and then it will be time to set them , for it is not good to keep them too long out of ground ; if the earth wherein they are set be over rank and hot , it will rot and consume them all ; therefore a bed must be made for them of good fresh sifted earth , and not too poor neither , for then they will not thrive ; nor placed too much in the Sun , for that will scorch and spoyl them ; but the best place is on the East side the Garden , for neither the South nor the West sides will agree with them , as I have often found by experience .

Iris bulbosa minor .

THe lesser bulbous Flower-de-luce is next in order to be described , whereof there are many more varieties than are to be found in the greater kinds , but many of them very common , and of small esteem , we will therefore make choice of some few , and chuse the best and most worthy to be collected and entertained .

Iris bulbosa minor flore albo .

THe lesser white bulbous Flower-de-luce springeth out of the ground before Winter , with small narrow leaves , which at the Spring grow bigger and longer , with a hollow chanel on the insides ; the stalk is longer and smaller than that of the former kind , bearing at the top out of a thin skinny husk , one or two flowers , of a snow-white colour , smaller , shorter and rounder than those of the greater kind , with nine leaves standing in the same fashion , the three falling leaves having a yellow spot in each of them ; the arched leaves are divided and turn up the ends , and the other three top-leaves are longer than those of the greater kind , and stand upright ; the seeds are like those of the former but lesser , and the roots are yellower , shorter , and not so hairy , very apt to off-set , whereby they are soon increased . This description may serve for the rest of this kind that follow , therefore we will onely add the several names by which some of the best are received , and the difference of the colours that are in the flowers of others that want names .

There is another white , that is bigger in all the parts thereof than the former , the stalk taller , and the flowers larger , but not of so pure a white colour as the other , and having that yellow spot in the three falling leaves as in all others .

There is another like the first in size and fashion , whose falling leaves have a little shew of yellowness in them , and so have the middle ridges of the arched leaves , but the upright or top-leaves are white .

We have another with a small flower as white as the second , the lower leaves are so small , that the yellow spot covereth almost all the ends thereof , standing outright ; the arched leaves are also small and long , and the top-leaves bend in the middle and meet at the ends .

There is another kind called the Spanish yellow , that riseth not so high as usually the rest do , the flower is like the first , but of an excellent deep Gold-yellow colour throughout the whole flower .

And another that riseth as high as the second , with pale yellow flowers , with a deep yellow spot ; of this there are diversities , some bigger and some lesser , some with paler and some with deeper yellow flowers , and one with the falling leaves white , except the yellow spot which is common to all the bulbous Flower-de-luces .

We have one called the party-coloured Spanish , whose falling leaves are white , the arched leaves silver colour , and the top-leaves of a blewish purple ; of this sort there is another that hath the falling leaves cirled with blew , the arched leaves pale blew , and the top-leaves purple .

There is another called the early Portugall , that is smaller in all the parts thereof than the former , the flowers stand round and neat , in fashion like the Spanish yellow , but wholly of a fair blewish purple colour , except the yellow spot which is in the three falling leaves .

We have another purple with a higher stalk , and larger flower than the last , but near of the same colour .

There is another like the last , whose flowers are of a reddish purple-colour , and flowereth very late .

And another that hath yellow falling leaves , sky-coloured arches , and top-leaves of a murrey purple .

And there is another whose falling leaves are yellow , the arches and top-leaves of a fair hair-colour , and another of a sadder and duller brown colour .

And we have another that is taller and larger than any of the rest , with falling leaves of a dusky yellow colour , with veins and borders about the edges of a dun colour , the arches of a dull purplish yellow , and the top-leaves of a sullen blewish purple .

There are many other varieties , but most of them inferior to those mentioned ; we will conclude with three other sorts that are more rare than any of the former .

Iris angustifolia Hispanica bulbosa non scripta .

THe Spanish narrow-leaved Flower-de-luce , not written of , is something like the Spanish-yellow , but smaller and shorter ; the flower is of a pleasant bright yellow colour , with a deeper spot in the three falling leaves , and instead of the top or upright leaves , it hath three very small short sharp-pointed leaves , if they may be called leaves in respect of their smallness .

Iris angustifolia bulbosa elegantissima percico flore .

THe most elegant narrow-leaved bulbous Iris , with a Peach-coloured flower , riseth up with a stalk and leaves like those of the middle size ; the flower hath large and long falling leaves , with a yellow spot in the middest of the ends of them ; the arched leaves are also large , and the divided ends long and turned up ; the top-leaves are likewise large and long , and the whole flower , except the yellow spot , of a fine reddish Peach-colour , deeper than that of the greater kind before mentioned ; this is the rarest of all other , and as hard to be found .

Iris bulbosa angustifolia serpentaria caule .

THe narrow-leaved bulbous Iris , with a spotted stalk , is in the manner of growing something like the Portugall , but a little taller and bigger ; the flower is of that fashion , and wholly of a reddish murrey purple colour , except the spot which is in the falling leaves thereof , which in this is of a deep yellow colour , round at the head , and with a small list running under the arched leaves ; this may be known before Winter , after the green leaves are come up , for that the bottoms of them for an inch above the ground , are of a reddish colour full of dark purple spots ; this is that which the Walloons have lately brought over out of Flanders by the name of Iris d' Abby . Some of them flower sooner , and others later , commonly after most of the greater kinds are past , in June , and stay until July ; the purple Portugall and the Spanish yellow are first , the hair-colours and murrey-purples last ; the flowers will be soon spoiled by wet , unless it be shaken off shortly after it hath fallen upon them .

The roots lose their fibres , as those of the greater kind , and are to be handled after the same manner ; the seeds of the best kinds also produce varieties , and the roots of the common or ordinary sorts increase too fast ; the two last are the rarest and most tender , they must be planted in good fresh earth that is not hot with dung , and where they may have the comfort of the morning Sun onely .

CHAP. XIX .

Jris Tuberosa .

THe Tuberous , or flag-leaved Flower-de-luce , is of divers sorts , and those commonly divided into two kinds , the Tall and the Dwarf , the which may be subdivided into two other sorts , broad leaves and narrow leaves , the Tall are called Iris major , or Latifolia , the Dwarf Iris minor , or Chamaeiris , of each of these there are many diversities , out of which we will select those that bear the fairest flowers , and pass by the rest as not worth the mentioning ; the best of all the kinds is called

Iris Chalcedonica major .

THe great Chalcedonian Iris , or Turky Flower-de-luce , riseth up before Winter , with divers broad yellowish green leaves , folded one within another at the bottom , and opening towards the tops ; out of the middle of those leaves riseth a round stiff stalk two foot high , bearing at the top thereof one gallant great flower , consisting of nine leaves as all the rest do ; the three lower leaves being very large and broad , are of a sad purple colour almost black , diversly spotted , straked and marked with a grayish white colour , with a great black freez or fringe in the middle of each of them ; the three arched leaves that cover the smaller part of these lower leaves , are of the same colour , and marked in the same manner , but a little paler , especially towards the sides and ends ; the three upper leaves are also very large , and marked like the other , but of a brighter and more lively colour by much ; the roots are tuberous , thick and long , like those of other flag Flower-de-luces , but of yellower brown colour , with many great long flat fibres .

Iris Chalcedonica minor .

THe lesser Chalcedonian Iris , or Turky Flower-de-luce , differeth from the former , in that it is lesser in all the parts thereof , the leaves of a yellower green colour , the flower darker , and not so eminently marked .

They flower in May , sooner or later as the Spring is forward or backward .

These are the best kinds of flag Flower-de-luces ; after the flowers are past , sometimes the roots will lose their fibres , and then the green leaves will dye to the ground ; such as do , must be taken up and kept out of the ground untill the middle of October ; the best time to transplant them is in the end of August or beginning of September , the best place under a South-wall , and the best soil that which is fresh and mixed with well-rotted and fine sifted wood-pile earth , and if they be covered and defended from hard Frosts in Winter , they will prosper and bear flowers much the better ; some use to take up the roots in the end of June , and keep them dry untill October , which maketh them the apter to bear flowers .

Iris Dalmatica major .

THe great Flower-de-luce of Dalmatia hath great broad Sedg-like green leaves , a tall stalk , bearing three or four large flowers on several branches that come from the top and sides thereof , which are in fashion like the flowers of the common great flag Flower-de-luce , of a pale blew or watchet colour , and sweet scent ; the root is great and tuberous , proportionable to the rest of the parts .

Iris Asiatica caerulea .

THe blew Flower-de-luce of Asia is like the last , but something lesser in all the parts , the stalk more branched , and bearing more flowers , which are of a deeper blew colour than those of the former .

Iris Lusitanica biflora .

THe twice flowring Portugall Flower-de-luce is in all things like the common great purple flag Iris , but a little lesser , and flowreth in the Spring , and again commonly the same year in Autumn ; the flowers of this are sweeter than any of the former .

Iris Camerarii purpurea versicolor .

THe variable purple Flower-de-luce of Camerarius hath green leaves almost as big as those of the last , but shorter ; the flower is of the same fashion , but lesser ; the three lower leaves are of a reddish purple , the arched leaves of a bleak yellow , shaddowed with purple , and the three top-leaves of a dull smoky yellowish purple colour ; we have another that is taken for the true Iris Camerarii , in respect it agreeth with the description of Clusius , a man of excellent judgement , this hath great thick knobby roots , broad flaggy leaves , a reasonable-tall smooth stalk , and flowers of a blew colour , welted down the middle of the leaves with yellowish white , and the falling leaves fringed about with a thick plaited fringe of the same yellowish white colour ; there is another that passeth under that name that hath flowers of a pale blew or sky-colour , fringed about the leaves like the former , but with a deeper blew colour than is in the rest of the flower .

Iris caerulea versicolor .

THe blew party-coloured Flower-de-luce hath green leaves something lesser than the former ; the flowers are variable in their colours , for some have the falls blew at the edges and the rest white , the arched leaves of a whitish yellow , and the top-leaues of a pale sky-colour with yellowish edges ; in some the blew is deeper with dark spots , in some very pale ; and there is one whose upright leaves are of a bright watchet , with yellowish edges , and the falling leaves party-coloured , half blew , and the other ash-colour , with yellowish edges .

Iris alba versicolor .

THe white variable Flower-de-luce in roots & green leavs is like that of Camerarius ; the stalk riseth almost a yard high , bearing four or five flowers one above another , which are of a silver colour , with a list of blewish purple down the backs of the top-leaves , and the lower leaves are whipt about the edges with blew , the arched leaves of a pale sky-colour , and more blew towards the ridge ; this is a pretty flower , but doth not deserve that nick-name Iris gloriosa as some have put upon it .

Iris aurea angustifolia Tripolitana .

THe yellow Flower-de-luce of Tripoly hath green leaves a yard long and almost an inch broad , the stalk four foot high , not big , but stiff and round , bearing at the top thereof , two or three long narrow-leaved gold yellow flowers , in fashion like those of the bulbous Flower-de-luce .

Iris angustifolia major caerulea .

THe great blew narrow-leaved Flower-de-luce hath dark green leaves like the last , but neither so long nor so broad ; the stalk riseth a little above the leaves , bearing many flowers , which blow one after another , of a bright blew colour , and in fashion like those of the last .

Iris angustifolia versicolor Clusii .

THe narrow-leaved variable Flower-de-luce of Clusius hath a thick tuft of narrow long green leaves , from whence ( if the plant be old and have stood long ) come up many round stalks , higher than the leaves , bearing four or five small flowers one above another , the lower leaves whereof are variably marked with white and blew , but the arched and top-leaves are wholly of a light blew colour ; the root consisteth of many long strings whereby it fasteneth strongly in the ground and much increaseth ; there is another of this kind that beareth white flowers .

Iris angustifolia major flore duplici .

THe greater double narrow-leaved Flower-de-luce hath long narrow green leaves , but broader and shorter than those of the last , and not so thick set together ; the flowers seem like many thrust together , coming confusedly out of one husk , not having the distinct parts of a Flower-de-luce , and sometimes it cometh with two or three small flowers , of distinct form , rising out of one husk ; the flowers are of a fair blew colour , with many veins of white running through the leaves ; the roots are like those of the last , but bigger , and not so apt to increase .

Chamaeiris latifolia alba major .

THe great white dwarf Flower-de luce hath something broad but short green leaves , a stalk about half a foot high , bearing commonly but one flower , which in some is snow-white , and in others straw-colour ; the roots are tuberous like the common flag Flower-de-luce , but lesser and shorter .

Chamaeiris latifolia major purpurea .

THe great purple dwarf Flower-de-luce is like the former , the only difference is in the colour of the flower , which is in this of a dark violet purple , in some deeper , and in others lighter .

Chamaeiris latifolia alba minor .

THe lesser white dwarf Flower-de-luce is smaller in all the parts thereof than the former , the flowers scarce rise above the leaves , which are like the other but lesser , and of a whitish colour in one , and in another straw-colour ; there are of this kind that bear violet purple flowers , in some deeper , in others lighter ; and one of a pale sky-colour ; there is another that hath the falling and top-leaves of a yellowish colour , with lines of purple , and another that hath the top-leaves of a blewish yellow , spotted with purple , the falling leaves spread over with pale purple lines , and the arched leaves silver-colour .

Chamaeiris latifolia flore rubente .

THe blush-coloured dwarf Flower-de-luce hath leaves and roots like the former , the chiefest difference is in the colour of the flower , this having the falling leaves of a reddish Peach-colour , with blew thrums , the arched and top-leaves of a fine pale red or blush-colour .

Some of these Flower-de-luces do bring forth their flowers in April , others in May , and some not untill June .

They are hardy plants , and will grow and increase in any place , but the better the soil is , the more they will florish ; those that have large Gardens may afford them room , but most of them are fitter for the borders of a Fruit-garden , than that of flowers , in respect they take up much ground which might serve to plant better things ; the best time to remove and plant them is in the beginning of September , parting the roots and setting them neither too thick nor too deep . There are two other plants which Mr. Gerard hath placed in the end of the Chapter of flag Flower-de-luces , the one is that small Flower-de-luce with the three-footed root , and greenish flower with black falls , called the velvet Flower-de-luce , heretofore common in most Countrey Gardens , now rarely found ; the other is the Sisyrnichium or Spanish-nut , which hath a round netted root like that of the Cloth of Cold Crocus , and beareth in its natural place ( which is the Sea coasts of Spain and Portugall ) small soon-fading flowers , having the parts of a Flower-de-luce , which to us can be of no use , for it will not thrive transplanted , or grow at all in England .

CHAP. XX.

Gladiolus .

COrn-Flag , and the varieties thereof are of no great esteem , yet because they come in a season when there are not many other flowers , the three following kindes may be admitted into the Flower-garden .

Gladiolus Byzantinus .

THe Corn-flag of Constantinople riseth up with three or four broad long and stiff green leaves , full of ribs , one coming out by the side of the other , and joyned at the bottom ; the stalk riseth from among the leaves , bearing many flowers one above another , standing all one way like those of Fox-gloves , which in this kinde are larger than in any of the other sorts , and of a deep red colour , with two white spots within the mouth of every flower ; the root is round flat and netted over , apt to give many off-sets if it stand long unremoved .

Gladiolus flore suave rubente .

THe Corn-flag with a bright red flower , hath green leaves almost as broad and long as the former , but of a blewer green colour , the flowers differ onely in the colour , which in this are of an excellent fine bright red or carnation colour , and almost as large as those of the Byzantine .

Gladiolus flore albo .

THe Corn flag with white flowers is lesser in all the parts thereof than the last described , the leaves are of a fresher green colour , the roots whiter , and the flowers snow-white .

There are three other more common varieties , which are called French Corn-flags , two that bear red flowers , the one a little bigger than the other , and one that is Ash-colour ; and we have another called the Italian Corn-flag , that beareth flowers like the common red French Corn-flag , but that they are of a sadder red colour , and grow on both sides the stalk .

They flower in June and beginning of July ; the Byzantine is the latest , and the common kinds are the first .

The roots yearly lose their fibres , and as soon as the stalks are dry , may be taken up and kept out of ground , untill the time of setting Tulips ; they are apt to give many off-sets , and therefore require to be taken up and every yeer freed from them , and the old roots set again five or six together , that they may make the better shew when they are in flower ; the first is a little tender , and would be defended from Frosts in Winter , the other are more hardy , and the common kinds will prosper in any place and increase too much .

CHAP. XXI .

Orchis sive Satyrium .

THe Fly-Orchis , or Bee-flower Satyrions , for variety may be inserted , although they grow wild in many places , they are received into Gardens for the beauty of the flowers , especially those called

Mellitia sive apifera .

THe Bee-flower grows not above six inches high , with three or four something narrow green leaves ; the stalk beareth three or four flowers one above another , each containing four leaves ; three of them are small and sharp-pointed , of a blush-colour , and turn up towards the top of the stalk ; the fourth is round , and in form and colour so like unto a Bee , that any one unacquainted therewith may take it for a living Bee sucking of a flower ; the roots are round , two joyned together , and after it hath born flowers , one of them perisheth , and the other remaineth hard and sound .

Orchis Spegodes .

GNats Satyrion hath leaves somewhat larger than the last , and the stalk higher ; the flowers grow in the same manner , but differ in that the lower leaf is in this like a Gnat , or great long Fly , the roots like those of the Bee-flower .

Orchis Myodes .

FLy Orchis is in all things like the last , except the flowers , which of this are smaller than either of the former , and the lower leaf like a Fly with leggs , a list of Ash-colour crossing the back , and the lower part black . There are many other varieties of Orchis and Satyrions , some bearing pretty flowers , as the male and female handed Satyrions , the Butter-fly Orchis , the snow-white , the all-red , the yellow , and divers that are spotted , all which are found wild in divers places of the South and West parts of England .

The time of their flowering is commonly about the middle of May.

They are usually diged up where they are found , with a turf about them , which may be set in some shady barren place of the Garden , for they will not live at all in a hot good soil ; but the best way to Plant them , is , first to make choice of a place in the Garden fit for them , then digg up a broad thick turf in some Meadow , or other place where they naturally grow , then open a hole and set the turf therein , with the grass upwards , wherein with a knife cut round holes , taking out the pieces so rounded , and put the roots in the places , and and fill them up with some of the same earth ; this may be done in June or July , and at the Spring when the grass and flowers grow up together , with a pair of Scisers cut the grass low , and leave the flowers , which by this means will prosper and bear as well as in their natural habitations , as I have experienced .

Dens Caninus .

DOggs-tooth , or Dogs-tooth Violet , is a kind of Satyrion , as the spotted leaves and roots do manifest , but of greater beauty and rarity than any of the former that grow wild with us , as these do also in divers places of Italy , Germany , and France , and for the beauty of their flowers deserve to be planted in the best Gardens .

Dens Caninus flore albo .

DOggs-tooth with a white flower comes up in the Spring with two leaves when it will flower , otherwise but one , which come out of the ground closed together with the flower between them , which opening lay themselves flat on the ground , the stalk and flower standing up between them ; the leaves are of whitish green colour , long and narrow , but broadest in the middle , spotted and striped with white lines and spots ; the stalk is about half a foot high , bearing at the top one flower , hanging down the head , containing six narrow long white leaves , which turn up again to the stalk like to the flowers of Cyclamen ; in the middle of the flower there is a white three-forked stile compassed about with six chives tipt with sad purple pendents ; the root is long and white like a Doggs-tooth , from whence it is so called ; with a small peece joyned to the bottom thereof .

Dens Caninus flore purpurascente .

DOggs-tooth with a pale purple flower is lesser in all the parts thereof than the former , the leaves are broader , but shorter , spotted and marked with darker lines and spots ; the flower is like that of the other , but smaller and of a pale purple colour .

Dens Caninus flore rubro .

DOggs-tooth with a red flower hath leaves of yellowish green mealy-colour , spotted with red ; the flower is of a deep reddish purple colour , and the chives more purple than those of the last .

Dens Caninus flore luteo .

DOggs-tooth with a yellow flower differeth from the first , in that the leaves of this are sadder and browner , and the flower of a fine pale yellow colour , in other things agreeing .

These pretty flowers come forth in the end of March , or beginning of April ; they do not affect a dunged soil , but must be planted in good fresh earth about the middle of August , before they put forth new fibres ; for although they lose the old every year , yet they quickly recover new , and therefore must not be kept long out of ground , and when they are set , it will be convenient to cover the place with some pot or tub , to defend them from wet , untill they have put forth fibres and begin to get strength , which will be within a fortnight if they be set at the fore-mentioned time , and then all danger is past , for too much rain falling upon them presently after they are set , will be apt to rot and spoil them ; these roots do seldom increase with us , but many of them are yearly brought over out of France and Flanders , by such that make a Trade of selling flowers , whereof there are many now about London , but commonly they come over so late that not one in ten of them will grow .

CHAP. XXII .

Cyclamen .

SOw-bread , in the spotting and marking of the green leaves , and turning back of the flowers , somewhat resembling the Doogs-tooth , is next to be handled : There are many varieties thereof , and most of them worthy to be received into the Gardens of the best Florists , adorning them with diversities of gallant variaged green leaves , as well as fine sweet-smelling flowers , some of them appearing in the Spring , some in Somer , but most in Autumn , of all which in order .

Cyclamen Vernum flore purpureo .

THe purple Cyclamen of the Spring hath a smaller root than many of those that follow , round and flat like a Turnip , and almost black on the outside , from whence springeth up divers round-cornered and sharp-pointed green leaves , spotted and circled with white round about the middle on the upper side , and red underneath ; the flowers come up folded in the leaves , every one upon a small long stalk , hanging down their heads and turning up the leaves again , composed of five narrow long leaves , which in this are of a bright shining reddish purple colour , and sweet scent ; after the flowers are past , the head or seed-vessel shrinketh down , winding the stalk in a scrowl about it , and resteth on the ground hid under the leaves , where it groweth great and round , containing some small seeds . There is one of this kind that flowereth about Christmas , if not hindred by hard Frosts .

Cyclamen Vernum flore albo .

THe white Cyclamen of the Spring differeth from the former , in that the leaves of this are rounder , and not so much indented , and the flowers snow-white ; in scent far sweeter than the former , in all other things agreeing .

Cyclamen Vernum Creticum flore albo .

THe white Candy Cyclamen of the Spring differeth from the last , in that the green leaves are larger , longer , more indented , and eminently marked , the flowers longer , and the leaves of them broader , in all other parts agreeing with the former .

Cyclamen Antiochenum flore amplo albo duplici Vernale .

THe double white Spring Cyclamen of Antioch hath large long spotted leaves , and tall stalks , with large double white flowers , consisting of twelve leaves or more .

Cyclamen Vernum flore purpurascente .

THe pale purple Cyclamen of the Spring is very like that of Candy , but that the green leaves are broader and better marked , the flowers larger , and of a fine pale purple towards the points of the leaves , the rest deeper ; in all other things agreeing with the white of Candy , and is a diversity raised from the seeds thereof .

Cyclamen Aestivum .

THe Sommer Cyclamen hath round green leaves , somewhat cornered , and marked with white on the upper side , and dark red underneath ; the flowers are small , purple , and sweet like unto the first purple of the Spring .

Cyclamen Romanum .

THe Roman Cyclamen hath rounder leaves than the last , sometimes indented at the edges , and eminently marked about the middle with white spots ; the flowers spring up before the leaves , commonly about July , which are short and of a fair reddish purple colour ; the root is bigger than any of the former , and the seeds being sowed , bring forth varieties , differing in the marking of the green leaves , and in the size and colour of the flowers , some being bigger than others , and of a deeper or lighter reddish purple colour .

Cyclamen Hederae folio autumnale .

THe Ivy-leaved Cyclamen of Autumn bringeth forth the flowers before the leaves , like those of the last , but that they are longer and of a paler purplish colour , the green leaves are longer also , pointed at the ends , with one or two corners at the sides , and commonly very much spotted , and marked on the upper side ; the seeds of this bring varieties like that of the Roman .

Cyclamen Hederae folio flore albo .

THe white Ivie-leaved Cyclamen differeth from the last , in that the leaves are rounder , and the flower white .

Cyclamen autumnale angustifolium .

THe narrow-leaved Cyclamen differeth from all the rest , in that the leaves are long and narrow , set on the stalk at the bottome with two points like an arrow head , as in that of Arum ; the flowers are like the former , in one purple , and in another white .

Cyclamen Antiochenum flore duplici .

THe double-flowred Cyclamen of Antioch hath round leaves , something like that of Somer , with four corners , and more spotted with white , the flowers are much bigger than those of any of the former , having each of them ten or twelve leaves of the same reddish purple colour that is in the first purple of the Spring , or a little paler towards the points of the leaves , and deeper at the bottom , flowring in Autumn : there is another Cyclamen of Antioch that brings forth double snow-white flowers , and many others that bear single flowers , both of the Spring , and also of Autumn , which are called of Antioch , but rare to be found in our English Gardens , especially those with double flowers .

Those that are mentioned to be of the Spring , bring forth their flowers with the green leaves in April , or the beginning of May , that of Somer in June , or the beginning of July , those of Autumn come forth before the leaves , some in the end of August , many in September , and the rest in the beginning of October .

The roots of Cyclamen do not lose their fibres , and therefore are seldome to be removed ; the best time to transplant them is in June or July , except that of Somer , and the Roman , which must be sooner , before they begin to put forth buds for flowers ; they rarely increase by the root , but are commonly raised out of seeds , which must be sown as soon as they are ripe , in some tubs or square boxes , in good light earth , and at first covered a finger thick , afterwards when they are come up , and the small green leaves dried down , some more of the same earth may be put upon them ; the first Winter after the sowing they must be housed , or covered , to defend them from frost , especially those of the Spring , afterwards they will be strong enough to defend themselves ; two years after the sowing they may be transplanted and set about nine inches distant from each other , where if the soil be good , they will quickly come to bear flowers , and perhaps some new varieties , differing in size , colour , or marking of the green leaves , from all those before observed .

CHAP. XXIII .

Anemone .

THe Wind-flower , or Anemone , by which name it is generally received and known , for the delicacy of form , richness of colour , and excellency of variety , next to the Tulips , deserveth to be esteemed ; there are chiefly two kinds thereof , both bringing forth many diversities of delicate flowers , as well double as single ; the first by us is called Anemone latifolia , the Anemone with broad leaves ; the other Anemone tenuifolia , the Anemone with narrow leaves , and by the Walloones about London ( that bring them over out of France and Flanders to sell ) Hard leaf , and Soft leaf . There are some wild kinds that have been ranked with these , as the Pulsatillaes , the wood Anemones , and some others not worth the mentioning , all which for their unworthiness are excluded out of this collection , having so many varieties of the two nobler kinds to acquaint you with all , we will therefore begin with the latifolias , those with broad leaves , and so proceed to the tenuifolias , those of the other kind with narrow leaves , and having given you a plentiful variety of double flowers , we shall say something of those with single flowers , from whose seeds many fine varieties are raised , some with double , though more with single flowers .

Anemone latifolia vulgaris maxima versicolor .

THe common great double variable broad-leaved Anemone cometh up before Winter , with many something broad leaves , cut in on the sides and folding the edges , seldome lying smooth and plain , of a fresher green colour than many of those that follow , and a little hard in handling , as all this kind are , and therefore by some called Hard-leaf ; from among these leaves riseth up one two or more stalks for flowers , according to the age and bigness of the roots , having about the middle of them some jaged leaves , as all the Anemones have ; at the top of the stalks the flowers come forth , which are large and double , consisting of many narrow long sharp-pointed leaves , the out-most whereof are broadest and green , with some stripes of Orenge-tawny , the inner leaves are smaller , less striped with green , and the middle leaves being wholly Orenge-tawny , turning inward , cover the head or button which is usual in the middle of the flowers of most of this kind ; the root is tuberous , large and thick ; of a blackish colour on the outside , and yellowish within : this common Anemone is by many Gentlewomen , and others as ignorant , called Robin Hood , Scarlet and John , and the Spanish Marigold ; there are two kinds thereof , the flowers of the one being more double and less green than the other .

Anemone latifolia dictus Pavo major .

THe common broad-leaved double scarlet Anemone is in all things like the last , except the flower , that of this having but two or three rows of large round-pointed leaves , which are wholly of a light scarlet or Orenge-tawny colour , with a whitish circle at the bottom , and a blackish hairy head or button in the middle ; this and the former are the most common and best known of all the sorts of double broad-leaved Anemones .

Anemone latifolia flore pleno coccineo .

THe broad-leaved Anemone with a double scarlet flower hath the leaves as green , but smaller than those of the former ; the flower is thick and double , consisting of many round-pointed narrow long leaves , which are wholly of a rich scarlet colour ; there is another that beareth double scarlet flowers , the leaves whereof are narrow , sharp-pointed , and of a lighter scarlet colour ; this is that sort which is commonly called super-rich , and there is another that beareth double flowers almost as large as the first , which are of the colour of red-lead .

Anemone latifolia flore pleno coccineo variegata .

THe broad-leaved double scarlet variegated Anemone hath small and something brown green leaves , a tall stalk , bearing a gallant large double flower , of a rich scarlet colour , and every leaf thereof finely striped and varigated with white : this far surpasseth any of the former , and was brought out of Flanders unto us , by the name of bell de Paris .

Anemone latifolia flore pleno rubro .

THe double broad-leaved red Anemone hath dark green leaves , and a small double bloud-red Flower , consisting of many narrow leaves ; of this kind there is another like unto it , only the leaves of the flowers are tipt , and a little edged with white .

Anemone latifolia flore pleno purpureo .

THe broad-leaved double purple Anemone hath broader leaves than those of the last , and of a brownish green colour ; the flower is something larger , and the leaves thereof not so many , but broader , of a murrey purple colour . There are divers sorts that are like unto this , which onely differ in the colour of the flowers , some being deeper , and others lighter , and some of so pale a purple , that by long standing before they fall , seem almost white .

Anemone latifolia flore pleno purpureo variegata .

THe double broad leaved purple varigated Anemone chiefly differeth from the former in the bravery of the flower , which is very large , thick , and double , of an excellent reddish purple colour , and every leaf thereof listed about with white .

There are divers other varieties of double broad-leaved Anemonies , that are yearly raised from the seeds of some single flowers , whereof there are many diversities , differing chiefly from the double kinds , in that the green leaves are smaller , and the flowers single , few of them esteemed , but such as bring the best seeds ; which are sowed in hope of raising new varieties of double flowers .

Anemone latifolia flore simplici .

BRoad-leaved Anemonies with single flowers are of divers sorts and colours , some bigger , others lesser , taller , or lower ; the flowers are all single , consisting of one Pale or row of leaves , with a hairy-head in the middle , of a colour differing from that of the leaves ; these flowers are of divers reds , purple , scarlets , deeper or paler , even to Pinck or Peach-colour , white , silver or Ash-colour ; some of the best sorts are kept by Florists , for that they bear seeds from whence diversities are raised , and some double flowers as well as many single , and of differing colours , both plain and striped . In all these single flowers , and some of those less double than the last sorts of the double kinds , the head in the middle , after the flowers are fallen , grows bigger and full of down , in which the seeds are wrapped , which must be carefully gathered as soon as it is ripe , else it will be all blowen away with the wind ; they are to be sowed and ordered after the same manner as those with narrow leaves .

Anemone tenuifolia vulgaris flore pleno rubro .

THe common double narrow-leaved red Anemone hath many winged green leaves , divided into many several branches , each leaf being cut and parted into many divisions , smaller and more divided than those of Parsly , and some of them like those of a Carret , among which riseth up , one , two or more stalks , according to the bigness of the root , with some small green leaves about the middle of each of them , and bearing at the top one great double flower , consisting of six or seven , and sometimes more broad outer leaves , of a deep red colour , having in the middle a large thrum of small leaves , of a lighter and much paler red colour , out of the middle whereof cometh many larger and broader leaves , of a lighter red than the outer leaves ; and deeper than those of the thrum , which warmed by the Sun spred themselves over it ; the roots are thick and tuberous , something resembling small razes of Ginger , of a yellowish brown colour , and neither so big nor black as those of the other kind with broad leaves .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno versicolor .

THe double narrow-leaved variable Anemone is in all things like the former , but onely the colour of the flowers , which in this will sometimes be of a pale blush-colour , the tops of the leaves almost white , and the bottom Peach-colour , and sometimes the flowers will be red like the former , but striped and varigated with pale blush , almost white , and sometimes without any marking at all ; I have often seen all these diversities in this one kind , all proceeding from the increase of one root ; and this is that which is called the Aple-blossom , or Packingtons Anemone .

Anemone tenuifolia elegantior flore pleno rubro .

THe more elegant double narrow-leaved Anemone with a red flower hath narrower and more divided green leaves than those of the former , the stalk longer , and the outer leaves of the flower more in number , and sharper pointed , of a good crimson colour ; the thrum in the middle thereof is of a pale red , and the tuft of small long leaves that cometh out of the middle of the thrum , is very large , and spreadeth almost quite over the flower , of a lighter crimson than that of the outer leaves , and deeper than that of the thrum ; many times two flowers will be joyned together on one stalk , which hapneth more frequently in this kind than in any other ; the root is not so big and thick as that of the common red , but flatter and more spreading than it ; all the rest that are to follow , do either resemble that or this , and the chiefest difference being in the flowers , these two general descriptions may serve for all to spare unnecessary repetition .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno coccineo .

THe double narrow-leaved Scarlet Anemone , is like the last , but that the stalks grow not so high , and the flowers something smaller , which are thick and double , and of an excellent rich Scarlet-colour , and therefore usually called Incarnadine de Spain .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno coccineo variegata .

THe double Scarlet variegated narrow-leaved Anemone is in all things like the last , but onely in the colour of the flower , which in this is of the same Scarlet colour with the former , finely striped and marked with white , the thrum seeming to be almost all white , and sometimes some broader leaves will come out of the middle thereof , of a bright Scarlet striped with white , like unto the outer leaves .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno coma scarlata .

THe double narrow-leaved Anemone with a Scarlet thrum differeth from the last , in that the outer leaves are white , and the thrum Scarlet .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno dicta Nacara .

THe double narrow-leaved Anemone called Nacara is like unto the Scarlet , onely the flower is of a deeper and yellower Scarlet colour , resembling that of the lesser French-Marigold , but not so deep , and the thrum inclining to an Orenge-colour .

Anemone flore pleno Sulphureo .

THe double Brimston-coloured narrow-leaved Anemone differeth from the last , in that the outer leaves of the flower are of a pale greenish yellow colour , like unto Brimston , and the thrum more green .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno viridante .

THe narrow-leaved double green Anemone is like the last , but that the outer leaves are of a greenish Orenge-tawny-colour , and the middle thrum of a yellowish green .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno albo major .

THe greater white narrow-leaved double Anemone little differeth either in the green leaves , or fashion of the flower , from the former , being as large and double as any of them , and of a milk-white colour . There is another that beareth a small double snow-white flower , having six outer leaves , and a thrum in the middle , made of small-hairy leaves , standing even at the top , as if they had been clipt with a pair of Scisers .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno maxima albo .

THe greatest double narrow-leaved white Anemone , called the white of Burdeaux , is in fashion like the first , but much larger and fairer , and of a pure white colour .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno Colombina .

THe narrow-leaved double blush Anemone , called Colombina , hath a larger flower than any of the former , the outer leaves being long and broad ; the thrum composed of short narrow leaves , putting forth a great tuft of longer and broader leaves , which spread over the flowers , almost to the points of the outer leaves ; the whole flower is of a blush , or flesh-colour , like unto the colour which is usually found in the flowers of the Colombine , from whence it is so called .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno Roseo .

THe double narrow-leaved Rose-coloured Anemone hath smaller flowers than the last , but very thick and double , of a more lively colour , like that of a new blown Damask Rose .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno Roseo variegata .

THe narrow-leaved double variegated Rose-coloured Anemone onely differeth from the last , in that the flower of this is striped and varied with white , especially the outer leaves .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno rubicante maculato .

THe narrow-leaved double spotted blush Anemone riseth up with a tall stalk , bearing a large flower , the outer leaves whereof are almost white , marked with small reddish spots and marks , especially on the outer side ; the thrum is large and thick , composed of many narrow long sharp-pointed leaves , of a reddish or Peach-colour , powdered with small specks of a deeper red colour ; this is called by those that brought it out of Flanders , the perfect Curtizan . There is another little differing from this , either in colours or manner of growing , called passe Albertine .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno purpureo .

THe narrow-leaved double purple Anemone cometh up with green leaves commonly before Winter , and many times with flowers , and therefore for the prevention of such forwardness , we keep the roots out of ground and not set them untill November , which causeth them to bear the fairer flowers at the Spring following , which are very large , thick and double , of a dark sullen violet purple colour .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno Lavendulae colore .

THe narrow-leaved double Lavender-coloured Anemone is in all things like the last , the flower is lesser , and of a pale heavy blew colour , like unto the flowers of Lavender ; there is another of this sort that is striped with white , especially the outer leaves of the flower .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno caeruleo .

THe narrow-leaved double blew Anemone is in fashion like the last , onely differing in the colour of the flower , which in this is of a fine bright blew colour , more pleasant to behold than any of the purples .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno coma purpureo .

THe narrow-leaved Anemone with the purple thrum , commonly called perfect in beauty , differeth chiefly from the other purples in the colour of the flower , the outer leaves of this being white , and the thrum or plush , as some call it , purple .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno coma Amarantina .

THe narrow-leaved double Anemone with the dark purple thrum , called Amarant , hath as broad green leaves as the first common red , and the flower is of the same fashion , the outer leaves of such a red colour , and the middle thrum of a dark-murrey purple colour , like the flowers of the lesser Amaranthus purpureus , and therefore called the Amarant Anemone ; sometimes there will come a tuft of bright red leaves out of the middle of the purple thrum , and then some have called such flowers Amaranthus tricolor , as if it were a distinct kinde , which in some years happeneth in most flowers , and in others few or none .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno coma Amarantina variegata .

THe double narrow-leaved variegated Amarant Anemone is in all things like the last , onely the outer leaves , and those that come out of the middle of the purple thrum , are variegated with white , much fairer in some years than in others . There are two sorts of this flower , one said to be of Paris , and the other of Flanders , but that of Paris is the better , being more constantly marked , and more distinctly than the other .

Anemone tenuifolia flore pleno quinque coloris .

THe double narrow-leaved Anemone of five colours is like the Amarant , but that the stalk is taller , and the flower larger , the outer leaves thereof are red , the thrum of a deeper murrey-purple , out of the middle whereof cometh one or two rows of leaves , of a light crimson colour from the ends half way , the rest pale yellow ; in the middle of these leaves there is a small tuft of shorter leaves , which are of a pale silver colour , so the five colours are , red , being that of the outer leaves , purple that of the thrum , crimson the tops of the leaves that come out of it , yellow the other part of them , and the small tuft in the middle silver colour ; this is an uncertain flower , and seldom cometh well .

Anemone tenuifolia dicta Bel-Lizwaire .

THis noble double Anemone hath fair large flowers , of a dark purplish colour , finely striped with white ; the roots are tender , and apt to perish , unless the soil be very agreeable , as all the other narrow-leaved striped Anemones are ; there is another like unto this called Rigat Polemburg .

Anemone tennifolia dicta Bel Rigat .

THis is a fair large and double flower , of an excellent crimson colour , and well striped and marked with white .

There are divers other sorts of double narrow-leaved Anemones , as Orlata vera , Cagetan , il Diavolo , il Diavolesso , and several others that are variegated , but most of those variegated kinds are so nice and tender that few can keep them from perishing .

There are also divers sorts of rare Italian Anemones , as The Dutches , which hath a large flower , finely striped with pale Rose-colour upon white .

Mellidore is Gold yellow within the leaves , and red without .

Mariana is Pink colour , and graydeline striped .

Larviana is flesh-colour near Isabella .

St. Marke is Brick-colour , or brown red , striped with sad white .

The Extravagant , Cateana , Gallatea , and at least fifty other sorts all rare flowers .

Anemone tenuifolia flore simplici .

THe single narrow-leaved Anemones are of a greater variety , rarity and esteem , than the Latifoliaes : formerly we had very few of these flowers , and those of little worth , but now of late years we are become owners of many diversities , of divers colours , both plain , edged , striped or marked with white , so that a bed set something thick with the several varieties of these Flowers , makes a gallant shew , for their stalks are tall , and bear plentifully fair large Flowers , commonly consisting of one row or pale of broad leaves , with a hairy head , or button in the middle , which after the Flowers are past grows big and long , yielding store of small Flat brown seeds , wraped in down ; the green leaves are larger , grow ranker , and are more in number than those of the double kinds ; the roots much bigger , and apter to increase ; and besides the great varieties of reds , scarlets , purples , whites , Peach , and Rose-colours , both plain and marked with white , there are some others raised from the seeds of these that bear gallant double flowers of several colours , as red , scarlet and purple ; these either plain or striped sorts I have seen more resembling the flowers of the double latifolias , than those with narrow leaves , for these consist of many something broad leaves , having no plush or thrum of leaves , but a small head or button in the middle , some having but two rows of leaves , others three , and some so thick and double , that the head in the middle is not to be seen , untill the Flowers fall ; and yet these kinds ( especially the thinner sorts ) perfect their seeds , from which many fine Flowers may be produced ; these are called Hermaphrodites , for that they partake of both kinds , as having the roots and leaves of the narrow , and the flowers of the double broad-leaved Anemones .

All these Anemones , both double and single , bring forth their beautiful Flowers commonly in March , April and May , sooner or later , according to the State of the Spring , and time of setting their roots .

In the handling and ordering of the rarer sorts of these excellent Flowers , some more than common care is to be taken ; for if the soil , situation , time and manner of planting and taking up , be not exactly observed , the Flowers will neither be fair , nor will the roots prosper and increase , but on the contrary rot , and consume , especially all the best double kinds with narrow leaves ; the ordinary , and those with single Flowers are more hardy .

The first thing therefore to be considered , is the soil wherein they are to be planted , which must be fat and rich , the earth not too light , a rich sandy lome earth is the best , wherein some Neats and Sheeps dung with a little lime hath been tempered , and layen long on a heap , often turned over , so that the dung be fully rotted , and well mixed with the earth , which being first sifted through a Wyer Sive , make a bed thereof half a yard deep at the least , in some place that is not too hot in the Sun , but something shadowed ; then about the end of September , place the roots of those Anemones with broad leaves therein , six or eight inches asunder , and three fingers deep in the ground , setting that side upward where you perceive small eminences to put forth leaves ; those with narrow leaves are to be handled in the same manner , only differing in the time of their setting , for these must be kept out of the ground in some dry place untill the end of October , and the purples a moneth longer , and then set in the same manner as the others ; those with broad leaves will come up before Winter , and those with narrow leaves about the end of February , or sooner if the Winter be mild , in March and April , if the season be dry , they must be watered , which will cause them to thrive much the better , and to bear the fairer flowers .

If you find they like their entertainment , grow strong , bear fair flowers on tall stalks , and prosper well , you may forbear to take up their roots untill the end of June or July ; but on the contrary , if the green leaves are few , the flowers small , and stalks short , it is a manifest sign of their dislike , and that the soil is either too cold and poor , or else too hot and rank , which is far more dangerous ; in this case they must be taken up as soon as the green leaves turn yellow , the roots put into sand , and so kept in some dry place for a moneth at the least , and then taken out , and kept in papers in some cool dry place , until the time of planting , for should the roots remain in the ground any time after they have lost their fibres , the earth being over-hot , they would all , or most of them rot and consume away , especially if any store of rain fall upon them ; in the taking up of their roots , care must be had that they be not broken , especially those with broad leaves , which must not be divided nor broken , until they part of themselves , those of the other kind with narrow leaves may be broken or parted with less prejudice , but the wholer they are kept , the better they will thrive ; and although the times before mentioned be best for the planting and setting the roots of both kinds of these rare flowers , yet the more ordinary kinds may be kept out of the ground until the end of February , which some use to do to cause them to flower late after others are gone ; in this practise it will be necessary to steep the roots four and twenty hours before you set them in warm water , and to plant them with some Willow earth under and over them , and in a more shady place than ordinary , else the heat of the Sun in the time of their flowring , will much diminish their beauty ; so if you have two beds stored with choice varieties of Anemonies , that set last more shaded than the first , and the fore-mentioned rules observed , you will be sure to enjoy the delight of their delicate flowers part of March , all April , and the greatest part of May , unless your Garden stand in some smoky place , where neither art nor industry will cause them to prosper , unless set in a hot bed in January , as some about London use to doe .

Now for the raising of new varieties of Anemones from seeds , choice must be made of the Flowers , as in Tulips ; some of the double latifolias bring seeds , the richest scarlets , palest purples , pink , white , and sky-colours are the best : but in the single Tenuifolias there is more choice , as red , and scarlets with deep white edges , all that are variegated or striped with white , and in these the deepest velvet purples are the best ; but above all others those that have two or three rowes of leaves , and that excellent velvet single blew , described and commended by Ferarius , are chiefly to be preferred .

The seeds of these flowers will be ready to gather in May , which must be done as the down riseth , else they will be blown away ; and having gathered all your seeds , stay not as some direct to sow them untill August , but let it be done by the middle of July at the furthest , and be sure the earth in which you sow them be good , and finely sifted , be it in beds or boxes , which your best seeds will deserve .

To separate the seeds that hang in the down , you must take earth that is very dry and fine , in quantity according to the seeds you intend to sow , put it in a Bowl , Trey , or Bason , and mingle the seeds therewith , then stir and divide them with your fingers untill none of the white down appear ; sow them not too thin , for some will fail to come up ; lastly , cover them half a fingers thickness with fine rich earth , and so let them remain untill about a moneth after their springing , then strow over them a fingers thickness more of like earth , and so leave them until Winter begins , at which time they must be covered with pease-straw , laid upon sticks , that it touch not the earth , to prevent the frosts and cold nipping air ; but from the time of sowing to the second covering with earth , you must not neglect often gently to water them .

The next year after their sowing , in August , they may be taken up , and set again in rowes at convenient distance , where they may remain until you see what flowers they will bear , and then dispose them as they shall deserve : some report they have had Anemones bear flowers the next , others the second year from the sowing , but I can expect few or none that are good before the third , and many will not bear untill the fourth year ; but the agreeable goodness of the earth and air for bringing them forward is most considerable , therefore be sure to make it as rich and good as you can , but take heed of too much dung .

If the earth of your bed , wherein you would set your best Anemones , be either too stiff clay , or too light sand , it must be compounded ; Clay with brook sand , and pearl sand , with good fresh fat earth taken next under the Turf of some good pasture , well mixed together with some lime , and old Neats dung rotted to earth ; which composition must be finely sifted before used ; with this earth so prepared make a bed half a yard deep , and therein set your roots , which will prosper and bear the better ; if at any season of setting them , you put a little Willow earth under and over the roots , it will cause them soon to put forth fibres , and thereby able to abide the Winter ; yet in frost and hard weather , it will be good to cover them that are come up with mats or pease-straw , which take off for two or three hours , every other day , ( if fair ) to give the bed air , and prevent mouldiness , which hath been the destruction of many a fine plant .

CHAP. XXIV .

Ranunculus .

THe Crow-foot is of divers kinds , and many of them not fit for our purpose , we will therefore make choice of such onely as bear the fairest flowers ; and first begin with such as have grumous or kernelly roots , which may be taken up and kept dry , as well as those of Anemones , and then conclude with some others of another nature .

Ranunculus Creticus albus .

THe double white Ranunculus , or Crow-foot of Candy , cometh up with leaves something broad , and indented about the edges , some of them more cut and divided than others , of a pale green colour full of white spots ; the stalk riseth about a foot high , with some smaller , and more divided leaves thereon , parted at the top into two or three branches , each bearing a fair white flower ; the root is grumous or kernelly , having many grains bigger than those of Wheat fastened to one head , of a sad brown colour on the outer side ; of this kind there are three other sorts that bear single flowers , one all white , another with purple , and a third , with bright red edges .

Ranunculus Creticus flore argenteo .

THe Cloth of silver Crow-foot of Candy hath smaller leaves than the last , the stalk bigger , and branched , bearing at the ends thereof single flowers , lesser than those of the former , containing seven or eight round-pointed leaves , of a pale yellowish blush colour on the insides , a little striped , but more on the outside with crimson ; the root is grumous like that of the former .

Ranunculus Asiaticus flore pleno luteo .

THe double yellow Ranunculus of Asia cometh up with many green leaves , cut and divided like those of a Carret , from whence rise many small upright stalks , each bearing at the top one small double flower , of a shinning yellow colour ; the root composed of many thick fat grains , fastened to a head of a white colour . There is another of this kind that hath bigger green leaves , and larger double flowers , of a more pale yellow colour , and we have a third onely differing in that the flowers are single .

Ranunculus Asiaticus flore pleno rubro .

THe double red Ranunculus of Asia hath the lower leaves plain and not cut , a little indented at the edges , the rest of the leaves are parted into three or five divisions , and notched about the edges ; the stalk riseth almost a foot high , bearing at the top thereof one fair and something large double flower , containing many round-pointed leaves , set in six or more rows one within another , and of fair yellowish red or Scarlet colour ; in some strong Plants , when the flower is almost past , another small double flower will rise out of the middle thereof ; the root is grumous like those of Candy , but lesser , and the grains longer .

There are now several other nobler sorts of Ranunculus of Asia , with gallant double flowers , much excelling this old kind described , the which we will insert under those names they are received , distinguished and known by , placing them in order according to their affinity with each other , beginning with that fine variety of our old acquaintance , the former called

Bozvell or Plumashe , this is in all things like the first old kind , only every leaf of the double flower is finely striped with pale yellow , of which there are two sorts , one said to be of Paris , the other and better of Flanders .

Pianisco chiefly differs from the last , in that the flower is a little double , and of a bloody red colour .

Sang de Beuf differs from the last , in that the flower is more thick and double , and at first seemeth to have small lines of yellow in every leaf thereof , but when full blown , it is of the colour of Bulls blood .

The Monster , or Gyant Ranunculus , hath thicker , rougher , and browner green leaves than any of the former , the stalks bigger and branched , each bearing a fair double Scarlet flower , but that on the chiefest stalk , is as big , and more double , than the fairest Marigold , which in shape it much resembleth , only the small leaves of this are sharp-pointed ; there is one of this sort whose flowers are lesser , and a little striped with yellow .

The great Monster of Rome is bigger in all the parts than either of the last , the flowers are larger , the leaves broader , very thick and double , forming a most gallant rich Scarlet-flower .

Puvoine of Rome hath the broad and thick pale green leaves maculated with white , the flowers large , thick and double , with broad round-pointed leaves , which stand out in the middle , different from the Monsters , and of a deep Scarlet-colour ; of this kind there is another more rare , which onely differeth , in that every leaf of the brave double flower is listed about with yellow .

Marvelia hath such like green leaves as the last , the flowers differ , in that those of this are not so double , the leaves long and narrower , varied and marbled with a deeper and lighter Scarlet .

Ranunculus Asiaticus flore simplici diversorum colorum .

RAnunculus of Asia with single flowers are of divers sorts and colours , which chiefly differ from the first double red in the flowers , which commonly are composed of five something broad leaves , with a thrummy head in the middle , much resembling a single Anemonie ; In some the flowers are red , some yellow , deeper or lighter ; and others spotted and striped about the edges with red , with several other pretty varieties , both of plain and mixed colours ; and we have one of the Gyants race which beareth on a branched stalk three or four single flowers , consisting of seven broad round-pointed leaves , of a greenish pale yellow at first , after milk-white , the leaves spotted and tipt with reddish purple , and another more rare , called the Archducal Ranunculus , which hath the single flower finely marked with three good colours .

These several sorts of Ranunculus are pretty flowers , and many of them worthy of esteem , especially the double kinds ; they bring forth their beautiful flowers in April and May , which continue a long time before they fall .

The roots of those of Candy may be taken up , and kept out of ground in Sand for some time , but require to be planted in September . The yellow of Asia is hardy , and will prosper well without being taken up ; all the other are nice and tender , and require to be planted in rich sandy and ranker earth than that directed for Anemones ; the roots are every year to be taken up about Midsommer , well dryed and kept in Papers or Boxes , as Anemones , untill such time they are to be set , for if they be left in the ground , or set too soon , they will come up before the great Frosts , which ( unless carefully covered ) will destroy them . I use to set them towards the end of December , and in warm and early grounds January is soon enough ; the roots may be parted and set severally six inches asunder , in rows , three fingers deep , where if the soil be agreeable , they will come up in March , and about the beginning of May bring forth gallant flowers , and much increase by roots ; and although Ranunculus require a ranker and more sandy earth than Anemones , yet it may be over rank ; if you suspect it to be so , when you set your roots , take off some of the earth , and in the place thereof , cover the bed about an inch thick all over with good fresh earth , taken next under the turf of some good Pasture , finely sifted , and if two stiff , mingle it with fine brook sand ; place the roots thereon , then cover them with a little of the same earth , and lastly finish your covering with that earth you took off your bed , so that the roots may be three inches under ground ; some set their Anemones and Ranunculus in the end of September , and assoon as they come up , shelter them with supported Mats , which must ( for an hour every fair day ) be taken off to air the bed , and prevent mouldiness , for if they be not carefully defended from hard Frosts and Snows , it will soon kill them all , therefore to avoid such trouble and danger of loss , I preferr late setting , as needing no attendance , or ever failing to answer my expectation .

In March and April , when they are come up , and begin to rise to flower , they must be often well watered , for then they require moisture , too much of which in the Winter destroys them ; some years some of their roots will lye in the ground , and not spring at all , which take up and dry with the rest , and they will bear flowers nevertheless the year following .

Unto these nobler kinds of Ranunculus , or Crow-foot , some others of our old acquaintance may be joyned ; they are now common I must confess , yet bear fair flowers , and were they as strange and nice as some of the former , they would be more esteemed , these being too familiar to be much affected , and kept with so little care , that few care for them , and therefore it will suffice onely to name them , and so conclude this Chapter .

Ranunculus Anglicus .

THe English Crow-foot with a grumous root , commonly called Chelidonium minus , or the lesser Pile-wort , differeth not at all from that common weed which grows in every hedge , with single shinning yellow flowers , but onely that the flowers of this are thick and double ; this Plant I found wild many years since , and setting it in my Garden , it much increased , so that I gave many roots thereof to divers about London and other places , and am confident that most of the Plants that are in England , came from that one root which I found , for I could never hear of any other that found it wild in any place .

Ranunculus albus flore pleno .

THe double white Crow-foot hath large leaves cut into fine divisions , and notched about the edges , of a fresh green colour on the upper side , and pale underneath , full of ribs and veins ; the stalk about half a yard high , divided into several branches , bearing many small but very double fine white flowers ; the root is composed of many thick , long whitish strings , fastened to a something big head .

Caltha Palustris flore pleno .

THe double Marsh-Marigold is no other than that we commonly call the Water-Boot , so plentiful in wet grounds , onely the flowers of this are thick and double , of an excellent Gold yellow colour ; the roots are stringy , and prosper well in Gardens ; there are three other sorts of double yellow Crow-foot , common in our Country , as that with the round root , called the Batchelors button ; the common running Crow-foot with double flowers , and the small double flowered Grass Crow-foot .

The Pile-wort flowereth in March , and will grow any where , and increase too fast ; the double white Crow-foot , and Marsh-Marigold , flower in April , and set in good ground will continue many years unremoved , and yield increase from the roots , which are to be planted in Autumn in a moist place , and something out of the scorching Sun .

CHAP. XXV .

Aconitum .

WOlfe-bane is of divers kinds , yet there is but one fit for our purpose , which with the Radix Cava , or Hollow root , give me leave to place in one Chapter , and first of of the Aconite .

Aconitum Hyemale .

THe Winter Wolf-bane riseth out of ground commonly in January , with round cut green leaves , standing on short foot-stalks , and with them the flowers which are small and yellow , made of five leaves , like a single Crow-foot , with yellow threds in the middle ; the root is thick and tuberous , like unto that of the common red narrow-leaved Anemone , but rounder , and loseth its fibres every year as the Anemones do .

Aconitum Hyemale flore pallido .

THe pale Winter Wolf-bane is in all things like the former , onely the flowers of this are of a pale yellow colour , and in some plants almost white .

These two sorts of Aconite do bring forth their flowers with the green leaves commonly in January , for which they are onely esteemed ; the roots may be set in any of the Sommer months , and in any place , for they are hardy and will thrive more than better things .

Radix Cava .

HOllow-root is a Plant as low in growth as reputation , the common and ordinary are cast out of every good Garden , and these following chiefly retained .

Radix Cava major flore albo .

THe white Hollow-root cometh out of the ground about the end of March , with green leaves like those of the Colombine , from among which , rise up two or three short stalks , naked from the bottom to the middle , where the flowers come forth one above another , every flower having a short green leaf at the foot thereof , which are long and hollow , with a heel behind , like uhto the flowers of the common Larks spur , with bigger bellies , and the mouthes not so open , being wholly of a pure white colour ; the root is big and round , of a yellowish brown colour on the outside , but more yellow within , and hollow underneath .

Radix Cava major flore carneo .

THe blush-coloured Hollow-root is in all things like the former , but that the flowers of this are of a light red , or deep blush-colour , and sometimes the flowers of some Plants of this kind will be of a deep reddish purple colour .

These kinds of Hollow-root come up in the end of March , flower in April , and are under-ground again in May ; the roots lose the fibres , and may be kept out of the ground two or three moneths ; they are apt to increase , and will like in any soil , but best in that which is inclining to sand , so as they stand not too hot in the Sun .

CHAP. XXVI .

Hepatica Nobilis .

NOble Liver-wort is of two sorts , the one bearing single , and the other double flowers ; the first are now little esteemed , and few of them entertained by the curious , but the double kinds more respected , and some of them accounted very rare , we will begin with that best known .

Hepatica Nobilis flore pleno purpureo .

THe double purple Hepatica cometh up before the leaves , with many small , and something long naked stalks , each of them bearing at the top thereof one small double flower , of a violet purple colour , at which time the leaves spring up foulded at the first , but after opening themselves , are divided at the edges in three parts , standing on several long foot-stalks , as high as the flowers , which leaves will continue untill new come again ; so that commonly the flowers rise up among the old leaves ; the root is composed of many long black strings , fastened to a head , from whence the leaves and flowers spring .

Hepatica nobilis flore pleno caeruleo .

THe double blew Hepatica is in all things like the former , but the colour of the flowers , which in this are of light watchet blew colour .

Hepatica nobilis flore pleno albo .

THe double white Hepatica hath smaller and fresher green leaves than either of the former , the flowers snow-white , and as thick and double , more rare to be found , and therefore much more esteemed .

Hepatica nobilis flore pleno rubro .

THe double red Hepatica is in all things like the last , but onely the colour of the flowers , which are as thick and double as any of the former , and of a fine pleasant pale red , inclining to Peach-colour .

These are the most valuable diversities that hitherto have come to our knowledge ; there are others that bear single flowers of the same colours of the double ones , but little esteemed by any good Florists ; yet by some are preserved , chiefly for that they bear seeds from whence varieties are expected , but I have not heard or seen any that have been so raised that are considerable . It is reported that the double white , and the double red have been raised from the seeds of the single kinds ; I confess I have not seen either of them , and therefore can give no further assurance than the credit of a good Florist the reporter .

The double kinds flower about the middle of March , and the single ones a fortnight sooner ; they must be planted like the Auricula , in rich well-dunged ground , where they will thrive and bear plentifully , and may be increased by parting the roots after they are grown into several heads .

Geranium .

CRanes bill is of divers sorts , but few of them of any esteem , the chiefest of them are , the knobbed Cranes-bill , that hath a root like a small Cyclamen , bearing many single pale purple flowers ; the blew Cranes-bill and the white differ only in the colour of the flowers ; the blew and white striped Cranes-bill is like the two last , only the flowers are variably spotted , striped , and parted with white and blew ; the purple Crow-foot Cranes-bill hath a great head of flowers , which open by degrees , and die at night ; the variable Cranes-bill is common , it hath small flowers , varied with small reddish veins upon white ; the sweet Cranes-bill hath flowers of a dark blackish purple colour ; the red Rose Cranes-bill hath flowers like a red Rose Campion ; these simple flowers are all exactly described by Mr. Parkinson , they flower in April , May and June , and increase too fast : but we have now an other more rare called

Geranium nocte olens .

FOr that it smelleth sweet only in the night , it hath a great root like a Paeony , with large jagged leaves , the flowers come forth in July , with small and round pointed leaves of a purple colour listed about with yellow , so as the purple seemeth but as a spot in the middle of every leaf ; these flowers stand on smooth stalks eight or ten on a head , which in the night are as sweet , as beautiful in the day ; the plant is tender , and therefore set in a pot , and governed in Winter as the Cardinals flower ; or housed and kept dry in Winter , for any moisture rots the root .

CHAP. XXVII .

Helleborus .

HEllebor is of two sorts or kinds , that is , black and white ; and there are some lesser sorts , called Helleborine , that for the beauty of their flowers deserve mention ; we will begin with the black Hellebor , vulgarly called the Christmas Rose , but more properly

Helleborus niger verus .

THe true black Hellebor , from a root composed of divers long brown strings , running deep into the ground , and fastened to a big head , springeth up many green leaves , standing on big stiff foot-stalks , divided into eight or nine parts , and nicked about the edges ; the flowers come forth in Winter , upon such short fat foot-stalks , in form like unto single white Roses , at first white , but by long standing turn to be of a blush-colour , with a pale yellow thrum , and a green head in the middle ; chiefly respected for the early flowring , which is commonly about Christmas , and therefore by many called the Winter or Christmas Rose ; there are some other sorts of black Hellebor , but none of any beauty or esteem , but this only .

Helleborus albus .

THe white Hellebor cometh up with a great round head , of a whitish green colour , opening it self into many beautiful large green leaves , eminently plaited throughout , and compassing each other at the bottome : out of them the stalk riseth a yard high , or more , with small leaves to the middle thereof , from whence it is divided into many branches , bearing a multitude of small star-like flowers of a yellowish green colour : the root is thick and big at the head , with divers great white strings , which run down deep into the ground , there strongly fastened , and abiding many years unremoved .

Helleborus albus flore atro rubente .

THe white Hellebor with a dark red flower differeth from the last , in that it cometh up a moneth before it , with larger leaves , smaller and finer plaited : the flowers are lesser than those of the former , and of a dark red , or sad liver-colour . This is a stately plant , and will deserve its place in the best Florists garden . There are some lesser sorts of Hellebor which we call Helleborine , whereof two or three are worth our acquaintance , and therefore fit to be inserted .

Helleborine major sive Calceolus Mariae .

OUr Ladies slipper cometh up with divers stalks about half a yard high , compassed at the bottom with broad green leaves , like those of white Hellebor , but smaller , and not plained ; at the tops of the stalks come forth one , two , and sometimes three flowers , one above another , upon small short foot-stalks , with a small leaf at the foot of each : the flowers in form are Oval , the upper part hollow , and the lowerround and swelling ; at the hollow part are two small slippets , wherewith at the first the hollowness is covered , but after open and stand apart from each other ; these flowers are in some of a pale yellow , and in others more rare of a brown colour , tending to purple ; the roots are composed of many dark brown strings , interlaced one within the other , lying under the upper crust of the earth , and not deeper , as those of the former kinds .

Helleborine minor flore albo .

THe small white Hellebor riseth up like the last , but not so high , neither are the leaves so large , and of a whiter green colour : the stalk beareth in a spike many small white flowers , consisting of five leaves and a small close hood in the middle : the roots are many small strings , running in the upper part of the earth .

Helleborine minor flore purpurante .

THe small purplish Hellebor is like the last described , but that the leaves are narrower , the flowers smaller , and of purplish blush-colour .

The true black Hellebor flowreth about Christmas , the two white Hellebors in June , the Ladies Slipper , and the white Helleborine in the end of April or beginning of May , and that with the purplish flower about the beginning of June .

The roots of the black and white Hellebor are hardy , and abide long unremoved , therefore fit to be at first set in good ground and where they may stand : the Helleborines are found wild in some parts of York and Lancashire , and therefore do not require too rich a soil . I received all the varieties before mentioned from that honest Gentleman , my never to be forgotten friend , Mr. Roger Brodshaw , who found them in the shady woods near his house in Lancashire ; there is another small Plant which may properly be mentioned in this place , of which a word or two before we conclude this Chapter .

Lilium Convallium flore albo .

THe white Convall Lily , May Lily , or the Lily of the valley , for by all these names it is called , hath a small stringy root , which runneth in the ground , and cometh up in divers places , with three or four long and broad leaves , somthing resembling those of the lesser Helleborine , from whence riseth up a small naked stalk , bearing at the top one above another , hanging all on one side , many little white flowers , like little Bottles with open mouths , which are of a comfortable sweet scent .

Lilium Convallium flore rubente .

THe Conval Lily with a reddish flower differs only from the former , in that the flowers are of a fine pale red colour , and therefore more esteemed than the other which is found growing wild in divers places in the North.

They both flower in May , and will increase too fast , but bear best in the shade , and in a mean soil ; I never read or heard of any other plant called the Lily of the vally , and if this be that mentioned in the Canticles , I am the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the valley , perhaps it was by the Rose to typify lovely Majesty , and by this small low flower , virtuous Humility , it having an especial property to help weak memories , raise Apoplectick persons , cheer the heart , and ease the pains of the Gout .

CHAP. XXVIII .

Gentiana .

GEntian is of several sorts , some greater , and some smaller , we will make choice of one of each , and leave the rest , as fitter for a general history , than this collection of flowers , and first of that rare medicinable plant called

Gentiana major flore flavo .

THe great Gentian with a yellow flower , from a great thick yellow bitter root , riseth up , with a long round and pointed head of leaves , closing each other , which opening lie upon the ground , and are long , broad and plaited , like unto those of the white Hellebor , but softer and more pliable , from among which the stalk cometh up , which is stiff , round , full of joynts , and above a yard high , with two small leaves at every joynt compassing the stalk , which from the middle to the top thereof is adorned with many rundles , or Coronets of flowers standing at every joynt with two green leaves under them , which are laid open like Stars , of a yellow colour , with some threds in the middle , which are succeeded by round heads containing seeds like unto those of the Fritillaria .

Gentianella verna .

GEntian of the Spring , or Gentianella , as it is commonly called , hath divers small hard green leaves growing in tufts close to the ground , ribbed and veined like to other Gentians , from among which riseth up a small short stalk , bearing at the top one fair , large , hollow , bell-fashioned flower , with open brims , ending in five corners , of an excellent deep blew colour , with some white spots in the bottome on the inside : the roots are small pale yellow long strings which run in the ground , and put forth leaves in divers places , whereby it increaseth so fast , that it is now grown common in every ordinary Garden .

The great Gentian flowereth from June to July , and the Gentianella from April to May ; the first increaseth slowly by the root , and it is hardly raised from seeds , in respect those plants that grow in England seldome bring any to perfection , and if any plants be gotten up from seeds , it will be many years before they come to bear flowers : the root must be planted in September , in rich ground , under a South wall , and carefully defended from frosts in the Winter ; the other will prosper in almost any soil , so it be in an open air .

CHAP. XXIX .

Campanula .

BEll-flowers are of several sorts , as well double as single , and some of them worthy acceptance , wherewith this Chapter will acquaint you .

Campanula Percifolio .

PEach-leaved Bell-flowers have many small leaves , like those of the Peach-tree , lying on the ground , from whence many stalks rise up two foot high , bearing from the middle to the head divers flowers , which are short , round at the head , and wider at the brims , parted into five points , in one pure white , and in another pale blew : the roots are many small strings creeping under the upper crust of the earth , and increase very much : these are common in every Garden , but I have often heard of others of both these kinds , which are reported to bear double flowers .

Campanula Pyramidalis .

STeeple Bell-flower riseth with many tall stalks higher than those of the former , garnished with bigger , and smoother dark green leavs , resembling those of Beets , bearing a multitude of flowers in a Pyramidical form , which are of the fashion of the former but lesser , in some blew , in others white ; the plant is full of milky juice , the roots large , stringy , and yielding milk like the branches .

Trachelium majus .

THe great Canterbury Bells have large rough leaves like those of a Nettle , but bigger ; the stalks are square , divided into branches , whereon stand divers long hollow flowers like Bells , wide at the brims , and parted into five points , in some white , and in others of a deeper , or paler violet purple : the roots are hard and stringy , increasing and abiding many years , although the leaves and stalks die to the ground every Winter .

Trachelium majus flore duplici .

DOuble Canterbury Bells differ in nothing from the last , but in that the flowers are double , consisting of two or three rows of leaves , which as in the former , are in some of these white , and in others blew or purple .

Trachelium Giganteum .

GYants Throat-wort hath long leaves of an over-worn green colour , rough and hollow in the middle , a little indented about the edges ; the stalk riseth two cubits high , set with leaves , from among which the flowers come forth , which are Bell-fashioned , divided at the brims into five points , which turn back , and are of whitish purple colour ; the root is like those of the former , and as long lasting .

Trachelium Americanum sive planta Cardinalis .

THe Cardinals-flower hath many leaves like those of Canterbury bells , but lesser , and of a yellowish green colour , from among which rise tall hollow-stalks , beset with leaves smaller by degrees to the top , from the bosoms whereof the flowers come forth , consisting of five long narrow leaves , three of them standing close together and hanging down right , the other two are turned up , with an umbone betwixt them , of somewhat a paler colour than the leaves , which are of an excellent rich crimson-colour ; the root is composed of very many white strings , and if it be well looked unto abideth many years . There is another of this kind ( which lately came from Virginia ) with blew flowers .

They flower from the end of May , commonly untill August , those with Peach-leaves first , and the Cardinals-flower last .

All these Bell-flowers are easily increased , by parting the roots in September , and thrive well in almost any soil , so they stand not too hot in the Sun ; Cardinals-flower is more tender , and must be planted in good light earth , in a pot , that it may be housed in Winter , for it will not endure Frost . The most worthy of these are the two sorts of Campanula with double flowers ( if there be any such ) the two double sorts of Canterbury Bells , and the Cardinals-flower ; the rest are of small esteem , yet many for want of better things afford them room in their Gardens .

The Cardinals-flower must be set in a pot , in good rich light earth ; and when Winter begins to grow sharp , set the pot in the ground , under a South-wall three inches deeper than the top , and cloath it about and on the pot with dry Moss , covered with a glass , which in warm days and gentle showers take off to refresh the Plant ; this course is more fit for this Plant than housing , and with some others to this rule referred , which must be observed untill April , and then you may take out the pots and safely expose them .

CHAP. XXX .

Jucca Indica & Periploca Virginiana .

THe Indian Jucca , or that we call so , is a Plant of some reputation with Florists , and Periploca of Virginia , which Mr. Parkinson calls Virginian Silk , is kept in some good Gardens , both which , though of different kinds , faces and qualities , we will comprehend in this Chapter , as also some other Indian Plants that are contented to live with us , and first of that called , but not truely ,

Jucca Indica .

THe Indian Jucca hath a great thick tuberous root with large fibres , from whence springeth up a great round tuft of hard long hollow green leaves , with points as sharp as thorns , which always remain and fall not away , except it be some of those that stand outward , which are recompensed by others that spring from the middle , from whence sometimes in an old and well kept plant , springeth up a strong round stalk , divided into several branches , which bear divers flowers , something resembling those of the common Fretillaria , but narrower at the bottom , containing six leaves , the three outer veined on the backs from the bottom to the middle with a reddish blush upon white ; these flowers come forth in July , and soon fall away without bringing any seeds in our Country . This Plant must be set in a large square Box , wide and deep , filled with good rich earth , where being housed in Winter and defended from Frosts , it may remain many years ; it never increaseth with us , yet there are now many Plants thereof in England , which have been brought from our Plantations in the West-Indies .

Periploca Virginiana .

VIrginian Silk is a Plant more respected for being a stranger , than for the beauty of the flowers ; it riseth up with one or more round stalks almost four foot high , set at several joynts with two long broad-veined round-pointed green leaves , at the top of the stalk , out of a skinny-hose , cometh forth a great tuft of flowers , to the number of thirty or fourty , hanging down on long foot-stalks , each flower consisting of five small hollow-leaves , of a pale purplish colour , neither fair nor pleasant ; after they are past , come long croked codds , standing upright , containing flat brown seeds , wrapped within a great deal of fine soft whitish brown silk ; the root is big , long and white , running far under ground , and spring up in many places ; it flowereth in July , and sometimes , but not every year , bringeth seeds and silk in August ; it groweth abundantly in Virginia , and hath been raised often by seeds that have come from thence ; and although the stalks dy to the ground every Winter , the root is of long continuance , and will send forth new at the Spring , especially if the place where it standeth be covered with horse-dung in Winter , to defend it from the Frosts .

Canna Indica .

THe Indian flowering Reed riseth up with fair large green leaves , coming from the joynts of the stalk , at first folded , after spread open ; the stalk is above a yard high , bearing at the top one above another divers flowers , like in fashion to the Gladiolus or Corn-flag , of a bright crimson colour ; after the flowers the seeds are contained in three-square heads , which are round and black , of the bigness of a Pease ; it hath a great white tuberous root full of knobs , whereby it aptly increaseth . There is of this kind another differing , onely in the colour of the flowers , which in this are yellow with reddish spots . These Plants must be set in large Boxes , in good earth , often watered , and housed in Winter , for one nights Frost will destroy them .

Ficus Indica minor .

THe Indian Fig with us consisteth of leaves onely , one springing out of another , proceeding from one leaf put half into the earth , which taketh root and puts out others ; these leaves are a finger thick , flat and round-pointed , of a pale green colour , with a shew at the first of brown prickles on the upper-side ; at the tops of the leaves , in June break out the flowers , which are composed of two rows of pale yellow leaves , with a yellow thrum tipt with red in the middle ; after the flowers are past , the head they stood on grows bigger , in form of a Fig , but never comes to any perfection with us . There is another of this kinde that hath bigger and much larger leaves , but will not endure our cold Winters , for the lesser kind is planted in Pots or Tubs , and housed in Winter , or else the Frosts will rot and destroy it .

CHAP. XXXI .

Auricula Ursi .

BEars Ears are nobler kinds of Cowslips , and now much esteemed , in respect of the many excellent varieties thereof of late years discovered , differing in the size , fashion , and colour of the green leaves , as well as flowers , the which we will list under these colours , namely purple , red or scarlet , yellow or Buff-colour , snow or milk-white , and acquaint you with so many fine diversities in each of them , as may be sufficient to stock a Florists Garden , who from their seeds , handled according to the following directions , may raise many new varieties .

Auricula flore purpureo .

THe purple Auricula is of divers sorts , some deeper and some lighter , we will begin with that best known , commonly called the fair Downham , from whose seeds many good flowers have been raised ; this hath many green leaves , somewhat long and mealy , narrow from the bottom to the middle , and broader by degrees almost to the ends , which are something round and striped about the edges ; out of the middle of the leaves , and from the sides of them , the stalks spring up five or six inches high , bearing at the top many flowers of a fine bright murrey or reddish purple colour , each flower consisting of five small leaves , parted at the ends , with a white circle or eye in the middle , standing in small cups , wherein ( after the flowers are fallen ) appear small round heads with a prick in the middle , containing small brown seeds ; the root hath many long white strings , like unto those of the Primrose or Cowslip . This description may serve for all the rest , with such additions as may distinguish the difference , or need exceptions . This was one of the first good flowers of this kind that we had , and takes the name from the first owner , my very good friend Mr. John Downham , a reverent Divine , and an industrious Florist , from whom many years since I had this and divers other fine flowers .

Mr. Good 's purple Auricula is a strong Plant , with large leaves , a big tall stalk , bearing a great Truss of many fair , fine , rich purple flowers , with snow-white eyes , that will not wash yellow with rain , as some do , but abide white to the last ; this noble kind was raised by Mr. Austen in Oxford , and given to Mr. John Good of Balioll College , whose now it is there called .

Mistris Buggs her fine purple was raised by her in Battersey neer London , it is like the former in all the parts , but that the great head of flowers stands more erect , of a deeper purple and broader white eyes .

Mr. Whitmores purple is also a very good flower , fair and large , many on one stalk , of a lighter purple than any of the former , with fair white eyes ; this was raised by my worthy friend William Whitmore of Balmes near Hodgsden Esquire , who was pleased the last Spring to give me a Plant thereof .

Purple Fransway is another good flower , it beareth a great truss of rich shining purple flowers , with very large white eyes .

The black Imperial may be reckoned with the purples , it hath small leaves and a short stalk , but beareth many fair flowers close set together , of so dark a purple colour , that without much error it may be called black , with fair snow-white eyes ; this was raised in Oxford .

Rickets sable Auricula is like the last , onely a little bigger in all the parts , but of as black a colour , with fair white eyes ; this was lately raised by Mr. Rickets of Hogsden often remembred , the best and most faithful Florist now abouts London .

The purple striped Auricula is small in all the parts , hath a weak low stalk , bearing four or five purple flowers , striped with white .

The purpled and Lemon-coloured striped Auricula is a much bigger and stronger Plant than the last , the stalk is stiff , but not tall , bearing often eight or ten flowers , which are Lemon-colour , striped with reddish purple ; this was also raised by Mistris Buggs before mentioned , and is a flower of good esteem .

There are divers other good purples which have been raised from seeds by my self and others , and every year produceth new varieties , not to be confined within any limits .

Auricula flore rubro sive coccineo .

THe Red or scarlet-colour Auricula is of divers sorts , one of the best I know , is called Mistris Austins scarlet , it hath large leaves , a strong upright stalk , bearing a great truss of fine scarlet flowers , with snow-white eyes ; divers other excellent flowers have been raised in Oxford by Mr. Jacob Bobert keeper of the publike Garden .

There are divers sorts of reds , inclining to scarlet , some redder and some yellower than others , some with large flowers , and many on one stalk , with white , or pale yellow eyes , upon many of which , several fantastical names ( by those that raised them ) have been imposed , as the Fair Virgin , the Matron , the Alderman , Mercury , and the other Planets , the Cow , the Red Bull , &c.

There are some raised from seeds that are crimson , others carnation , and one by my self that beareth a great truss of large blood-red flowers , with fair white eyes .

Besides these there are raised from seeds infinite other varieties of Rose-colours , Blushes , Cinamon and other fine colours ; those whose flowers are of new and strange colours with white eyes that will not wash , are chiefly to be marked out and preserved .

Auricula flore luteo .

THe yellow Auricula is of small esteem , those that bear the largest flowers , the biggest truss , of the deepest yellow colour , and white eyes , are most regarded ; but the more ordinary sorts are commonly cast away , as I have done above fourty in one year that came of seeds ; but of this generation there are some , whose flowers are of a Buff colour , some yellower , and some dunner than others ; these have been in good esteem , and every Florist had his Leather-Coat , many of which yet remain and retain the names of those that raised them , as Tradescans Leather-Coat , Lances , Tuggies , Turners , Collins , Lookers , Humphries , Meracows , Mows , Mullars , Randolls , and Rickets Beazar , all several good kinds of Leather-Coats , and I have raised a Leather-Coat my self from seeds , that is not inferior to the best of those mentioned ; and there is one that on a short stalk beareth four or five double flowers , with three rows of leaves in each flower .

Auriculo flore albo .

TThe white Auricula is of small variety and esteem , the best is that called the Virgins milk ; this hath large mealy leaves , a tall strong stalk , with a great truss of milk-white flowers , with snow-white eyes , which placed among the purples , sets off , and adds to their glory ; there are some that are perfectly white , and many milk-whites , but few of them of any better esteem than the yellows .

We will now ( as others have done ) conclude this Chapter of Auricula , with two other Plants that bear flowers something resembling them , but neither are of that family , or have any other relation thereunto , yet fittest for this place , as not deserving particular Chapters .

Auricula flore caeruleo folio Boraginis .

THe Burage-leaved blew Auricula hath rough hairy leaves , spread on the ground like those of Burage , but much lesser , and rent in the sides in some places , among which riseth up one , two , or more brown hairy-stalks , five or six inches high , each bearing at the top , three , or four flowers , consisting of five leaves , which are large , sharp-pointed , and of a fair rich blew colour , with some small yellow threds in the middle ; the root is long and brownish , with many small fibres annexed thereunto . This Plant as it is rare , so is it tender , and impatient of our cold Winters , and therefore requireth to be planted in a pot , that it may be handled as the flos Cardinalis .

Cortusa Mathioli .

BEars-ears Sanicle , as some call it , springeth up with the leaves foulded , which opening are fair and broad , cut in divisions and nicked about the edges , a little hairy , and of a dark green colour on the uperside , but whiter on the other ; from among the leaves riseth up one or two naked stalks , five or six inches high , bearing at the tops divers small flowers , like in form to an Auricula , but hanging down their heads , and of a dark purple colour , with a small white eye and some threds in the middle ; after the flowers are past , the seeds succeed , like that of the Auricula ; the root is composed of a thick tuft of small whitish strings fastened to a head , which abideth in the ground all the Winter , the leaves perishing and renewing at the Spring . This Plant is commonly raised from seeds , set in a pot and ordered as in the last in Winter ; both this and the former flower with the Auricula or a little after them .

All the several sorts of Auricula do flower in April or the beginning of May , and sometimes they will flower again in the end of August , or beginning of September , but those flowers that come then , are neither so fair , nor so many on one stalk , as those of the Spring .

The Bears-ears must be planted in some place that is a little shaded from the scorching heat of the Sun , the soil made very rich , if stiff with sand & store of well rotted Neats-dung , & therein the roots set a foot asunder , for they spread wide , and will not thrive if they want room ; the best way to set them , is to open a wide hole , leaving or raising a little hill in the middest thereof , then set the root thereupon , and spread the fibres round about it , lastly cover and water them . After the middle of August every other year take them up , and then mend the soil where they grew , with sifted Neats-dung , and having slipped and parted the roots , and cut off those fibres that are too long , set them in the same place again ; by this means you shall not fail to have them thrive and bear store of flowers , but if you let them stand too long unremoved , or in poor , or stiff ground , you must expect the contrary .

The best sorts of Auricula are set in pots , which they will well deserve ; fill the pots almost half full with sifted Neats-dung , the rest with good sandy earth well mixed with such sifted dung , and about the end of August set the Plants therein , but not too deep , for the roots will be apt enough to draw downwards ; place these pots in the Sun all the Winter , and with Glasses defend them from over much wet , but do not house them , for they will do better in the open Air. At the Spring when they rise to flower remove them into a place more shaded , and after the flowers are past ( except those you leave to seed ) you may dispose in some shady place out of the way , to make room for pots with Gilliflowers .

The raising varieties of them from seeds is a secret wherewith few are well acquainted , and it is to be performed with something more than common diligence , according to the rules following ; After the flowers are past , and the stalks begin to grow yellow , you may observe in the top of that little round seed-vessel , a small hole , and then you may be assured the seed is almost ripe , and if you do not carefully look to it , will be all shed before you are aware ; therefore as soon as you perceive it to be ready , cut down the stalks , keeping the tops upright , for if you turn them downwards , all the best seeds will fall out ; then binde them in bundles , and place them upright to the Glass of some South Window , where ( by some benefit they will receive from the Sun ) they will harden , and be much the better ; towards the end of August or beginning of September , prepare some square box or boxes according to your store of seeds , that are nine or ten inches deep , and of what breadth you please , with some holes in the bottom to let out water , which fill three parts full with fine sandy sifted earth , one half thereof being well rotted Neats dung , which mingled well together , and laid smooth with your Trowel , lay thereon a fingers thickness of fine sifted Willow earth , or for want thereof dried Cow-dung beaten small , mingled with a little good earth and sifted , and sow your seeds thereon , mingled with Wood-ashes , which by their colour will direct you to sow them the more suitably ; they must not be sowed too thin , for all will not come up , if they do they may easily be removed to another place ; after the seeds are thus sowed , cover them half a finger thick , with the same you put next under them , which press down lightly , and let them remain in the Sun and Air untill they begin to come up , which will be about April , and then they must be removed into the shade , and often gently watered ; as soon as they are grown to any considerable bigness take some of them up , where they are too thick , and set them presently in some bed prepared for that purpose , six or eight inches asunder , where they may remain untill they come to bear flowers ; and those you leave in the box may be transplanted in the end of August after the same manner , and so the box will be ready again to sow more seeds ; some of them will bear the Spring following , others about August the year after they were sowed , and the rest the Spring then next following , provided the ground you set them in be rich and good , otherwise you will lose all the delight of your labors . Some are of opinion that the beginning of October , others the end of February , is the best time to sow them , but having tryed all those times , I finde that before mentioned to be the best ; for the seeds are so small that if they be kept any time out of the ground , they will be all dead . Now above all things you must be sure to get the seeds of good flowers , for from thence springeth all your hope ; when you see their flowers , those you dislike , cast away , or else if you have convenience send them to the flower-market , the common Emtory of trash and refuse , and reserve the rest for your own delight .

CHAP. XXXII .

Primula Veris , & Paralysis .

PRimroses and Cowslips are English flowers , and well known to every Milk-maid , being the common ornaments of Meadows and Pastures , yet there are some varieties of them entertained in Gardens , out of which we will cull the best , and leave the rest to those that delight in such common toys . We have now other kinds of Primroses and Cowslips , that bear diversities of red flowers , more esteemed than those of our own Country ; but first we will begin with some of our old acquaintance , and then proceed to those of later discovery .

Primula Veris flore pleno vulgaris .

THe common double Garden Primrose is so well known , that it is sufficient onely to name it , but were it not so common in every Country-womans Garden , it would be more respected , for indeed it is a sweet and dainty double flower , and the chiefest of all our English kinds .

Paralysis flore geminato .

THe Cowslip hose in hose differeth from that of the field , in respect the flowers are ingeminated , one standing within the other , many on one stalk , the same in colour and fashion with those of the common kind .

Paralysis flore pleno .

THe double Cowslip differeth from the common kind , in that it is bigger , and beareth many fair thick and double flowers on one stalk , of the same Gold yellow colour with the former .

Paralysis flore pleno viridante .

THe double green Cowslip differeth from the last , in that the flowers of this are of yellowish green colour , but as thick and double ; and this is the rarest and most esteemed of all our English kinds .

There are divers other sorts both of Primroses and Cowslips planted in some Gardens , as the double green Primrose , and another that hath the outer row of leaves green , with a small pale yellow flower in the midst , the single green Cowslip , the tufted Cowslip , the fantastick Cowslip , or Jackanapes on horse back , the Cowslip with the jagged hose , and another with a large hose divided in five points , and purled about the edges with a small single yellow flower standing therein ; all which I leave to those that delight in them , and pass to others of more esteem .

Primula Veris flore rubro .

THe red Primrose is of a newer date , more beauty , and greater variety than the former ; in roots leaves and fashion it differeth not from the common single field Primrose , only the tops of the roots , and bottomes of the stalks , are of a reddish colour , but the greatest difference is in the colours of the flowers , there being almost twenty diversities of reds , some deeper and others lighter , from bloud red to pale Pink colour ; some are of a blewish Rose-colour , sader and paler , some brick-colour , some Dove-colour , others of the colour of an old Buff-coat , and some hair-colour ; all which varieties have been raised from seeds , and likewise these more excellent kinds following .

The fair red Primrose is a pleasant flower , of a most beautiful rich shining velvet red-colour , with a yellow Star in the bottome , as is in all the rest .

The Scarlet Primrose is of esteem , the flower is of a bright Scarlet colour , more rare than any of the former .

Red Primrose hose in hose hath upon every stalk ( for many stalks bearing flowers rise from one root , in all these kinds ) two flowers ingeminated , one standing within the other , in some bigger and of a deeper red colour , in others lesser and paler ; of this kind I have raised six several diversities differing from each other , either in size , fashion or colour .

The double red Primrose is the rarest of all the kinds , the flower is reported to be almost as large , thick and double , as the common pale yellow kind , and of a fair red colour : this if any such be it is that so much seed hath been sowed in hope to obtain .

The red Cowslip , or Oxlip , is also of several sorts , all of them bearing many flowers on one stalk , in fashion like those of the field , but of several red colours , some deeper , others lighter , some bigger like Oxlips , others smaller like Cowslips .

The variable Scarlet , or Orenge-coloured Cowslip , hath many small flowers on one stalk , which towards the bottome on the upper side in some , are of a fine Orenge-colour , and the leaves listed about the edges with Cinnamon-colour , and something redder on the outside ; some are of a fine Scarlet colour deeper or lighter in great variety , all proceeding from the seeds of the deepest coloured flowers .

The red Cowslip hose in hose hath many flowers on one stalk , like those of the ingeminated red Primrose before described , but lesser ; of these I have five distinct diversities , some bigger , some lesser , and of deeper or lighter red colours .

Of some of these sorts a multitude have been and are yearly raised from seeds , still sowed in hope of gaining new varieties , casting those away that do not answer expectation , which by many about London , with such like refuse ; are sent into the flower-market , and there sold for little , for had they not that way to purge their Gardens , they would certainly , as I and others do , destroy them . I have lately heard several ignorant pretenders to the knowledge of flowers say , that they could buy in that market the best Tulips in England for five shillings the hundred , the best red Primroses and Bears-ears for six pence the dozen , and all other flowers whatsoever , one with another , for two pence a piece ; and I believe they and many others are confident that there are no better to be found in the world , than those there sold at that rate , for my part I shall not endeavour to undeceive them , but wish them good markets that are so poorly pleased , and return to the subject in hand .

The common double Primrose flowereth in April , and the Cowslips in May , the red kinds in March , and many of them will begin in September , and continue bearing flowers all the Winter , unless checked by hard weather .

The English kinds are hardy and prosper in any place that is not too hot in the sun ; the red kinds are planted , sowed , and ordered in the same manner as we do the Bears-ears ; yet if sowed in a bed of good earth towards the end of September , they will come up at the Spring , and soon come to bear flowers ; we shall only add some few varieties of another kind of small Cowslips , and then proceed to other things .

Paralysis minor flore rubro .

REd Birds eyes continue all the Winter with the leaves closed together , which at the Spring do open and spread upon the ground , with small long and narrow leaves , snipt about the edges , of a pale green on the upper side , and of a mealy whitish colour on the other ; from among the leaves rise up one or two small hairy stalks , half a foot high , bearing at the top many small flowers , like in fashion unto a small Bears-ear , of a fine reddish Peach-colour , with yellow eyes in the bottoms of the flowers , it hath a small stringy root , and sometimes beareth small seeds .

There is another of this kind that is a little bigger in all the parts thereof , and beareth white flowers .

And a third that is like the last , but that the white flowers are poudered over with the same red colour that is in the first .

These pretty plants bring forth their flowers in April , and are preserved in some Florists Gardens , they prosper best in a shady barren place , for they grow naturally in moist barren ground in the Northern parts . I received the several varieties before mentioned from that worthy honest Gentleman my very good friend Mr. Roger Brodshaw of the Hay in Lancashire before remembered .

CHAP. XXXIII .

Lychnis .

CHampions are of several sorts , and many Plants are called Lychnis , with some other word of distinction added thereunto , we will make choice of some few , and such only as are fittest to adorn a Flower-Garden , and leave the rest as vulgars not worth the mentioning .

Lychnis Coronaria rubra multiplex .

THe double red Rose Champion is in all the parts thereof like unto the single , so well known that it were superfluous further to describe it , only the flowers of this are thick and double , of the same delicate velvet red colour , which is in the common single kind .

Lychnis Coronaria alba multiplex .

THe double white Rose Champion is in all things like the former , but only that the flowers of this are white , but as thick and double and far more rare than the red .

Lychnis Chalcidonica flore simplici .

SIngle Non-such , Flower of Constantinople , or as it is most commonly called , Flower of Bristol , is a Plant as well known as the former common Champion , and therefore needeth no further description , neither indeed had I admitted a thing so common , but that there are some fine diversities thereof , worthy of room in the best Gardens , and the varieties standing together , setting off each other , make a fine show . I therefore begin with the common kind that bears a great head of many single Scarlet flowers , which may serve to point out all the rest .

We have another of this kind , no way differing from the former , but in the colour of the flowers , which in this are at the first of a reddish blush-colour , after growing paler by degrees ; so that in one head of flowers there will be several shadows of blushes , one paler than another .

There is a third that beareth single flowers , like in all parts to the former , only the flowers of this are of a snow-white colour .

Lychnis Chalcidonica flore pleno miniato .

THe rich Scarlet Non-such , or Flower of Bristol , differeth from the first , in that the stalks are bigger and stronger , bearing many flowers ( as the rest do ) at the tops thereof , which in this are thick and double , and of the same rich Scarlet colour that is in the first , or a little deeper .

The Champions do begin to flower towards the end of June , and will continue bearing flowers untill September , the several sorts of Non-such ; bring forth their flowers in July .

The Champions must be planted of slips taken from the old root , in the end of August , or beginning of September , that they may take root before Winter ; those set in the Spring run up to flower and die at Winter , as the old Plants are apt to do , therefore set slips every year , lest you lose the kind . The Non-such are hardy Plants , and will continue long , they are encreased by taking young Plants from the old roots , which will come up with many heads , and every head taken off with some little of the root will grow , and soon come to bear flowers ; the best time for the doing thereof , is in the end of March , when the new shoots are risen to some height out of the ground ; perhaps if trial were made of sowing the seeds of the single kinds , some new varieties might be gained ; the seeds are small and must be sowed and ordered as we do Auricula : but these Plants are not dainty of their nourishment , for they will grow and bear well almost in any soil , but worst in that which is over hot and too rank .

CHAP. XXXIV .

Keiri five Lucoium luteum .

WAll-flowers , or Winter Gilliflowers , have divers sorts worthy of entertainment , and although there are some kinds common in every Countrey Garden , yet these that follow will deserve a place in this collection , and room in a Florists Garden .

Keiri flore simplex majus .

THe great single Wall-flower is in all the parts thereof like the common kind well known unto all , but that it is much larger , the leaves of a darker shining green colour , the flowers many , growing on a long spike , of a deep gold yellow colour , and some of them as broad as half a crown .

Keiri majus flore pleno

THe great double Wall-flower is in all things like the last , excepting the flowers , which of this are of the same gold yellow colour , and although not so broad as those of the single kind , yet very large , thick and double .

Keiri simplex flore albo .

THe single white Wall-flower hath leaves as green , or greener than the former single yellow , and as large ; the flowers are single , consisting of fower leaves , of a fair white colour .

Keiri flore pleno albo .

THe double white Wall-flower is in all the parts thereof like unto the single , only differing in the flowers , those of this being of the same white colour , not very large , but thick and double : we have a sort of double white stock-Gilliflowers , that is raised from seeds , which in respect of the green leaves is by many called the white Wall-flower , but any that are acquainted with the different scents of the Wall , and Stock-Gilliflower , may thereby soon distinguish the one from the other .

Keiri majus flore pleno ferrugineo .

THe double red Wall-flower hath something large green leaves , and beareth a long spike of double yellow flowers , that stand thinner on the stalk than those of the great double yellow , having the outer leaves dash'd over with a dark red colour , which whilst the flowers are in the bud , and not quite open , is much more to be seen than afterwards when they are fully blown .

Keiri flore luteo pallido .

THe pale yellow Wall-flower , although it be in all the parts thereof like unto the common double Wall-flower , yet is it more esteemed , for that the flowers of this are thicker and doubler , stand closer together , and are of a fine pale yellow colour .

They flourish in March , April , and part of May , affording store of fair sweet flowers for almost three months .

They are easily raised , being apt to grow up on slips , set in March after the manner directed for Stock-Gilliflowers ; the best place to plant them , is close to some South-wall , unto which they may be fastened , and defended in Winter from Frosts and hard weather , for some of them are tender , especially the double white , and the great single and double yellow .

CHAP. XXXV .

Lucoium .

THe stock-Gilliflower is of more esteem than the Wall-flower , as well for the elegance of form , as delicacy of colours ; there are many sorts that bear double flowers as well as single , but the double onely are admitted into the Gardens of the curious , the single remaining in some nurcery to bear seeds , from which the double are raised ; we will therefore set down the varieties of those chiefly that bear double flowers , and onely tell you , that each of them hath a single of the same colour , from the seeds whereof many double ones are gained .

Lucoium flore pleno diversorum colorum .

DOuble stock-Gilliflowers of divers colours are in all parts so like the single , and they so well known unto all , that they need no description ; the chiefest difference consisteth in the flowers , which of these are large , thick , and double , bearing many upon one branch , and one stalk many branches of flowers , which are either of a sadder or lighter purple colour , or of a paler or deeper reddish murrey ; and there is one hath greener leaves than any of the rest , that beareth pure white flowers , each of these having single flowers of the same colour and kind , from whose seeds the double are produced .

Lucoium flore pleno variegatum .

THe double striped stock-Gilliflower is in all things like the former , and hath the same diversities of colours , onely differing in that the flowers of these are all striped or marked more or less with white , which addeth very much to their beauty and esteem ; there are some with striped single flowers , from whose seeds the double are raised , as in the former .

Lucoium alterum flore pleno .

THe other double stock-Gilliflower hath no single of the kind , and is lesser in all parts thereof than those raised from seeds , the flowers are also smaller , but thick and double , of the same or like colours of the other , both for single colours and mixed , many of them much more , and better striped with white than those of the former kind .

Lucoium luteum flore pleno .

THe yellow stock-Gilliflower is as rare to finde , as a white Wall-flower , yet there are of both sorts , as well double as single , the double of this yellow kind , being raised from the seeds of the single ; it hath hairy green leaves , and a woody stalk like the rest ; the flowers are of a pale yellow colour ; in the one double , and in the other single .

They begin to flower in April , are in the greatest glory in May , and many continue flowering all the Sommer , and untill they are checked by Frosts .

The first , that have single ones of the same kinds , are raised from the seeds thereof , the double never bearing any , neither do the seeds of every single kind produce any double , but if you have good seeds and of a right kind , you may from them raise many double flowers , which having obtained , sow them at the full of the Moon in April in your Flower-nurcery , not too thick by any means , and after they are grown four or five inches high , in some rainy season , pull them up , then turn the bed over where they grew , and set them again in rows at convenient distance ; after they have stood some time , and begin to grow high , take them up again as before , so set them the second time , by this means they will become more hardy , grow low , and spread in branches , have strength to endure the Winter , and at the Spring be far better Plants to remove , than those that run up with long stalks , which seldom escape the Frosts in Winter ; and you will have many with double flowers among them , which may be perceived in the buds , which will be rounder and bigger than those of the single , and those you may remove into your Garden , taking them up carefully , not breaking the roots , and with some earth about them , which being a while shaded and watered , will grow and bear flowers , as well as if they had not been at all removed ; those with single flowers must stand to bring you seeds , which must be yearly sowed to preserve the kinds , for after they have born flowers , commonly both the double and single dye .

The other sorts of double stock-Gilliflowers , do neither bear seeds , nor have any single of the kind , so that they are increased by slips onely , those of this kind being more apt to grow , and longer continue than the former that are raised from seeds ; but as in Gilliflowers so it is in these , the first being more easily obtained , hath caused the later to be neglected and almost quite lost , notwithstanding one Plant of this nobler kind is worth five raised from seeds .

Many are of opinion , that double stocks raised from seeds , longer than the first year of their bearing flowers , are not to be preserved , or kept by any way or means , but I know by experience they are mistaken , for I have often raised many Plants from the slips or cuttings of this kind as well as the other ; it is true that commonly the old Plant being all run up to flower , dies the next Winter , but the cuttings will grow and bear the next Spring following , almost as well as those immediately raised from the seeds . All the art is in setting them , which is to be performed in manner following ; First make choice of such branches as do not bear flowers , the which cut off some distance from the stock , so that they be not too long , then slit down the bark at the end of the slip about half an inch , in three or four places equally distant from each other , according to the bigness thereof , which peell as far as it is slit and turn up , then cut off the naked woody part close to the rind that is turned up , make a wide hole and set the slip therein three fingers deep , with the bark spread open round about the end thereof , then cover it , which being shaded for some time and watered , if the ground be any thing good , will grow and prosper very well ; and certainly this is the best and most absolute way to raise double stocks of any kind that hath been practised by any ; and in the like manner you may cut and set slips of the best Wall-flowers , Gilliflowers , or of any other woody Plant that will grow of slips , a pretty practice for Ladies and Gentlewomen , for whose sakes chiefly it is here inserted ; they may also be increased by laying the slips after the manner of Gilliflowers .

CHAP. XXXVI .

Hesperis sive Viola Matronalis .

DAmes Violet , or Queens Gilliflower , is a common Plant , growing plentifully in every Country-womans Garden , and by them called Close Siences , of which they have two sorts , one bearing pale blush , and the other white flowers , both single , consisting of four leaves onely ; but we have three nobler varieties of this flower , worthy to be received into the choicest Gardens , the first of them and most known is called ,

Hesperis flore pleno albo .

THe double white Queens Gilliflower is in all parts so like the common single kinde ( except the flowers ) that I need to set down onely their differences ; those of this are very many on one branch , and one stalk often times hath many branches of flowers , which stand close and thick together , commonly in a long spike , each flower being thick and double , of a pure white colour , and delicate sweet scent , especially in the evening , for which property it is called Hesperis .

Hesperis flore pleno purpurascente .

THe double purplish Queens Gilliflower differeth in nothing from the former , but in the colour of the flowers , those of this being as many on one stalk or branch , as thick and double , and of the same scent , but of a fine pleasant light reddish purple-colour , deeper than that of the common single kind , and of newer date than the double white .

Hesperis flore pleno variegata .

THe double striped Queens Gilliflower is in all parts like the last , but that the flowers , which are of the same purplish colour , are finely striped with white , and therefore more esteemed than either of the other of this sort ; we have one that beareth single striped flowers , respected for the seeds sake , which sowed may produce varieties .

They flower from May to the end of July , and are easily raised , for almost any slip or branch thereof , set in the ground , shaded and watered , will grow , onely the nipping of the buds for flowers from such new set Plants as soon as they appear , would not be neglected ; the single kinds will seed , from which the double sorts have been raised .

CHAP. XXXVII .

Ptarmica flore pleno & aliis

DOuble Pellitory and others , for in this Chapter I shall give you several Plants that bear double white flowers , and although they be of several families , I have joyned them together , for that each of them would scarce deserve a particular Chapter , and all of them bear pretty flowers , and are entertained for variety in most Florists Gardens ; the double wild Pellitory hath tall slender stalks , set with long narrow green leaves , snipt about the edges , like unto the single that grow wild in the fields , bearing at the top of the stalk many small double white flowers ; the roots are composed of many long white strings , which run in the ground , and spring up in divers places , whereby it is very apt to be increased .

Parthenium flore pleno .

DOuble Featherfew is in all things like unto the common single kind well known unto all , the onely difference is in the flowers , which of this are very thick and double , being white and something yellow in the middle ; this is increased by setting the slips that run not up to flower in the end of August .

Chamaemelum flore pleno .

DOuble Camomill is like the ordinary , but that the green leaves are of a fresher green colour and larger , the flowers of this also are larger and very double , being white , with some yellowness in the middle ; this is more tender than the common kind , and must yearly be renued , by setting young slips thereof in the Spring .

Cotula flore pleno .

DOuble Dogy-fenel hath many small deep dark green leaves , bearing at the tops of the branches divers broad spread double white flowers without scent ; the root is composed of many small strings , and increased by setting the slips in the end of August , nipping of the buds for flowers , as soon as any appear .

Cardamine flore pleno .

DOuble Lady Smocks hath many winged leaves lying on the ground , like those of the wild kind , from whence many small stalks come forth , bearing many double white flowers ; the small stringy roots creep in the ground and come up in divers places .

Bellis flore pleno .

DOuble Daisies are of divers sorts , and some of them for variety , entertained in good Gardens ; the chiefest are the greater white , the all-red , the great red and white , the childing Daysie , the abortive naked double green Daysie , and divers other varieties there are scarce worthy naming ; they all flower in April , and may be easily increased by parting the roots in the Spring , or Autumn ; if they stand too much in the Sun , unless often watered , it will soon scorch and destroy them .

CHAP. XXXVIII .

Caryophilbus hortensis .

GIlliflowers are the pride of Somer , as Tulips are the glories of the Spring ; all those now in esteem are such as in Holland and Flanders have been raised from seeds , which is the cause they are so frail , and apt to perish after they have born flowers ; we had heretofore many good kinds that were not seedlings , but few of them now to be found in any of our Gardens .

Of these Dutch flowers I have known more than a hundred distinct varieties , by several names , all of them fair , large , thick , and double flowers , well striped , flaked , marbled , or powdered with white or blush , either upon darker or lighter red , crimson or carnation , sadder or brighter purple , deeper or paler Scarlet , and white ; so that all the best varieties now in being , may be comprehended under these three sorts , that is , red and white , purple and white , and scarlet and white , in all which colours there are many fine varieties , the which we will insert under those names by which they are generally received and known , beginning with a dozen of the best in every sort , the rest being all very good flowers ; but indeed there is no end of these seed-flowers , every year producing new varieties , and perhaps within two or three years , few of those now in esteem left , for commonly the Plants after they have born flowers die in Winter , a property common to most seedlings .

To describe every particular flower , would be tedious , and to small purpose , in respect of their frailty ; therefore I conceive the naming the best in every sort , will be sufficient to inform those that desire to collect them , which done , we shall further enlarge touching their propagation , culture , planting , and preservation .

Gilliflowers red and white . GHarles the second Queen Katherine Emperatoria Emperor of Russia Emperors Court Queen of Persia Virgin of England Virgin of Cullen Coridon King of Bohemia Bohemia Crown Emperor Rodolphus Great Tamberlane Queen Esther Floradine Royal-Oak Grand Duke-Royal Lacerbeck Super-eminent Lord de Camp New bonaventura Victoria Marvel de mond Countess of Flanders Bel-blome Prince de Parma Court of Castile Samaritan Bel Infanta General of Holland Count Florus Bel Rose Brown favorite Grand Boor Kings sconce Daris Princes Court New painted Lady . Purple and White . King David King Solomon King of Assyria Queen of France Oylman Pantalees Don John General of the Indies Triumph of Spain Eagle royal Dorilisant Prince Robert Queen of Sweden Bel de mondi King of Portugall Bel triumphant Admiral of Spain House of Commons Covenant of England St. Lewis Marble stone Prince Henrick Royal Match General Wigons Blew Crystal Tapisere Grave florus . Scarlet and White . Empire of Germany Bride of Holland Carthusa Alexander Young Prince Lord Belle Yonton Oriental King of Ethiopia The Jewel Great Boor Morning star Bel beleever Bonaventura Prince of Orenge Paragon Brewer Virgin of Orleance Van Velson Incarnadine d'Bezond Dorothea of Holland The Cock Hovaniere Augustus Fair Frances Count Mansfield Salamander

All these Gilliflowers and some others of lesser note I observed the last season in flower , in the Garden of Mr. Rickets of Hogsden before mentioned .

These are the varieties of the best Gilliflowers now in being : they flower chiefly from the middle of July to the same time in August , and in hot Somers some of them will seed , which must be carefully looked unto , and gathered as soon as ripe , lest rains in Autumn destroy it .

These seeds are to be sowed very thin , upon a bed of good fresh earth , after rain , in the beginning of April , the Plants well grown , taken up in some rainy season , and set again in rows a foot asunder , where the year following they will bear flowers , some double , but more single , which may be pulled up and cast away as soon as discovered , leaving only those with double flowers . Plant your best Gilliflowers in pots , which must be placed to bear flowers , where they may have the morning Sun only , for the after-noon Sun doth the plants much harm : water them in their necessity gently , to moisten the earth by degrees , for too much wet rots the small fibres , therefore take heed your pots be not over wet at the bottome , neither would these flowers be long wet on the leaves .

Every year some of them will die : set not another in the same earth , but take it out , and fill the pot again with that which is fresh , for earth in pots will spend it self more than that in Beds , and requireth to be yearly renewed : from such stocks as escape the Winter , after bearing , take as much of the earth as you can out of the pot , without hurting the roots , and fill it up again with that which is fresh ; in Winter , and to the middle of April ( that the weather grows hot ) water in the morning , after in the evening , putting water to the roots , not wetting the branches .

When your flowers are spindled , bind them to sticks , and nip off all superfluous buds , that the flowers of such you leave may be the fairer ; stick hollow Kix , and the Cleies of Beasts upon the ends of sticks about your pots , into which Earwigs and black Insects in the night will creep , which may be taken in the morning and destroyed ; when the flowers begin to appear , open the points of the pods to give them liberty , and those pods which break , bind with a narrow list , of the thin film of a Gold-beaters old mould , which wet , will stick together , keep the flower round , and scarcely be perceived ; but those that are not provided with this , may cut some of the bark from a withy stick , fit it to the place , and thrust it into the pod , to hold up the drooping side of the flower : when they have done bearing , cut away the stalks , and in rainy seasons ( which often happen in Autumn ) lay the pots down on the sides , to prevent the taking of too much wet .

The greatest care required in the preservation of these Plants is in Winter , in which season they are to be defended from great rains , snows , and long frosts , as also from the North and East winds ; therefore if you have a convenient house , with large dores , that they may not want air , place them therein , as soon as admonished by the first frosts , giving them at all times ( unless in the night , and in time of frost ) as much air as the house will afford , and if you find them dry , in open weather gently water them with water qualified with a little Sheeps dung ( not wetting the leaves ) especially after a long frost , which will settle the earth to the roots : let not your pots be too wet by any means , and if too dry , frost doth them the more harm . In February and March , in fair days often set them forth , and sometimes let them receive a gentle shower , but take them in at night ; in April cut away the dead leaves , fill the pots that want , with good earth , and place them where they are to stand to bear flowers .

Those that want a convenient house to winter these tender Plants , may place the pots close to a South or West wall , where with thin boards supported over them , they may be defended from the forementioned prejudices , and by taking off the boards , aired at pleasure ; this way is by most Florists preferred before housing , and practised with better success ; for Gilliflowers so much affect an open and free air , that if they want it , they will soon ascertain the owner by his loss , the verity of this period .

As for Clove Gilliflowers and others of the more ordinary kind , such may be set on banks or beds , and increased as the former ; the chiefest care required about them , is to shake off the snow , and to defend them from excessive wet in Winter ; you may preserve them from long hard frosts , by putting pease-straw rotted to dust , two fingers thick about their roots .

For various colours Tulips most excel , And some Anemonies do please 〈◊〉 well , Ranunculus in richest Scarlets shine , And Bears-ears may with these in beautie joyn : But yet if ask and have were in my power , Next to the Rose give me the Gilliflower .

Caryophilli Sylvestres .

PInks are of many sorts , and little esteem , they only serve to set the sides of borders in spacious Gardens , and some of them for posies , mixed with the buds of Damask Roses ; most of them are single , and there are some that bear double flowers , the best those which are called the feathered Pinks ; they have broad leaves , deeply cut in , and jagged at the edges , whereof there is white , light red , and bright purple , and some with a deeper or paler purple spot in the middle ; the best of these are , the feathered Pink of Austria , and that with the large deep purple spot in the bottom , the common single Pinks are not worth mentioning ; for those with double flowers , whereof some are white , others pale red , or purple , are common things not regarded ; the Granado Pink is a small Gilliflower of that kind , and belongeth not to these , neither do any of those that rise from the seeds of Gilliflowers , with single flowers .

The Pinks flower with Roses in June , and every ordinary Gardiner knows how to plant and dispose them , as also that vulgar Plant called Thrift , whereof there is a bigger kind that beareth many flowers on a head like the common one , but flowering by degrees , so that it is of small beauty , besides it is a tender Plant , affecting the vicinity of the Sea , and not long abiding in our Gardens .

CHAP. XXXIX .

Armerius .

SWeet Johns , and Sweet Williams , are of divers sorts , but few of them worthy the acceptance of a Florist ; we will therefore pass by the common and ordinary kinds , and describe the best onely .

Armerius angustifolius .

SWeet Johns differ from Sweet Williams , in that the green leaves are narrower and the stalks shorter ; the flowers like the Williams are many on a head , but deeper jagged . In some Plants the flowers are red in the middle , and paler towards the edges , in others white ; and there are of both these sorts that bear double flowers , consisting of two or three rows of leaves , and these are esteemed onely .

Armerius latifolius .

SWeet Williams have broader and darker green leaves than the Johns , higher stalks , and bearing more flowers , some red , and others white ; and there is one called London pride , with variable flowers , some red , others white specled with red more or less ; and there is another that beareth double red flowers ; with all which , except the white , every Country-woman is well acquainted ; but we have another more rare than any of these , called the Velvet Armerius , or Sweet William , which differeth chiefly from the other single kinds in the colour of the flowers , which in this are of a deep rich murrey velvet colour , with a paler circle towards the bottoms of the leaves , and this is the best of all the Williams .

They flower usually in June before the Pinks ; the sowing their seeds is now much used , and some pretty varieties are raised ; every slip of them set in the Spring will grow and abide the Winter ; the double Johns , and the Velvet Williams , are worthy the acquaintance of the fairest Lady that is a lover of flowers , and those that have room may practice the sowing their seeds , and possibly may raise some fine diversities with double flowers .

CHAP. XL.

HAving now set down all the best flower bearing Plants that are permanent , we will conclude this Book with some sweet Herbs , and such only as are worthily received by the Collectors of flowers , which done , refer you to Ceres , who will acquaint you in the next book with her best seedlings .

Marum .

HErb Mastick riseth about a foot high , with stiff hard stalks divided into many branches , thinly set with small green leaves , two at every joynt ; at the tops of the stalks , and branches , come forth small white flowers among a tuft of white downy threds ; the whole Plant is of sweet and pleasant scent .

Maram Syriacum .

ASsyrian Mastick groweth not so tall as the former , the leaves smaller , whiter , and thicker set on the branches , like those of Myrtle ; at the tops of the stalks stand many green knaps or heads , like those of sweet-Margeroum , but bigger and greener , the root is woody , and the whole Plant of a delicate sweet scent , very tender and impatient of cold , and therefore must be set in a pot , and not housed in Winter , but ordered as is directed for flos Cardinalis , and carefully defended from Cats , that else will eat and destroy it .

Salvia .

SAge is of many sorts , but those fittest for this place are the variegated great Sages , the one marked with white , the other with yellow , and the small sweet Sage ; the variegated are common , but the small more rare . There are several sorts of small Sage , but that here intended is a small tender Plant of a musky sweet scent , far excelling all the other .

Majorana .

MArgerom is likewise of divers sorts , but that called Winter sweet-Margerom is most esteemed , there are of this two sorts , but the best hath smaller and browner green leaves than the other , and as sweet as that yearly raised of seeds .

Pulegium .

PEny-Royal is a common Plant in every Kitchen Garden , especially the ordinary sorts , but there is one more rare that hath the leaves thick set on the stalks like tufted Margerom , but closer set together .

Lavendula .

LAvender is of four several sorts , one bigger , another lesser , both bearing bleak blew flowers ; a third that hath large broad green leaves , growing thick on the stalks , never bearing any flowers with us , but that which is most esteemed is like the first , but that the flowers are white and of a stronger sweet scent .

Serpillum .

TIme is of divers sorts , out of which three are chiefly to be chosen , Musk - Time , double or tufted - Time , and gilded - Time ; the two first are well known , the third hath something broad green leaves , finely marked and gilded with yellow ; all fit to be placed in Posies among sweet flowers , and therefore deserve a little room in a flower-garden .

All these Plants and Herbs are raised by setting the slips or branches , in the beginning of April , being all apt to root and thrive , except the Assyrian Mastick ; and the perfumed Sage , the first being as hard to be found as kept , the later more common , and something curious in its conservation .

There is another fine Herby-Plant , preserved by the best Florists , called Abrotanum viridi flore amplo , this is a kind of Sowtherwood ; it grows low , with a thick tuft of very small , long , whitish green leaves , of an Oily scent , and in July beareth fine yellow flowers , on small naked stalks ; it is tender , and therefore planted in pots to be housed in Winter , and may be increased by setting the slips in March , which will prosper if set in the shade in Sommer , and kept from cold in Winter .

And now as we begun with Bayes , we will end with Rosemary , the several kinds inserted shall end this Book .

Rosmarinum .

ROsemary is of several fine sorts , besides the common kind , with which all are acquainted , we will onely name them and so conclude this Book .

Rosmarinum latifolium .

BRoad leaved Rosemary , in the fashion and manner of growing , is like the common kind , but bigger in all the parts thereof , the leaves broader , thicker set on the branches , and of a fresher green colour .

Rosmarinum Aureum .

GIlded Rosemary differeth from the common kind , in that the leaves are variously striped with yellow , as if they were gilded with Leaf-Gold .

Rosmarinum Argenteum .

SIlver Rosemary hath smaller leaves than the last , finely marked and striped with white or silver colour , therefore so called ; this is more rare than the former , and of more delight and beauty .

Rosmarinum flore duplici .

DOuble-flowered Rosemary hath stiffer stalks , bigger and greener leaves than the common kind , with many pale blew double flowers , like Lark-Spurs , but lesser .

The Gilded and Silvered Rosemaries , are in the Sommer months in greatest beauty , and the more they are exposed to the Sun , the better they will be marked ; they all flower in May , and are increased by setting the slips in March or the end of August .

In the Van at first , the Bayes appear , Rosemary at last brings up the Rear ; The one victorious Brows adorn , The others at joyful Hymens worn . Ladies to you the first is due , Since none do conquer more than you , Nor greater joy can him betide Hath such a Beauty to his Bride . So Flora bids you now adieu , Leaves first , and last , and all to you .