Star Flower.—­See “Trientalis.”

Star of Bethlehem.—­See “Ornithogalum.”

Statice (Sea Lavender).—­The greenhouse and frame varieties succeed best in sandy loam and peat, and may be increased by cuttings placed under a bell-glass or in a warm pit.  The hardy herbaceous kinds are very suitable for the front of flower borders, and may be freely increased by seeds or division.  The annuals, if sown in March, will produce flowers in July.  Statices require a good amount of water, but thorough drainage must be ensured.  If the flowers are dried they will keep their colour for a considerable time.  Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.

Stauntonia Latifolia.—­A greenhouse evergreen climbing plant, which needs a peat and loam soil and plenty of room for its roots.  It flowers in April, and is increased by cuttings planted in sand under glass, with a gentle heat.  Height, 10 ft.

Stenactis (Fleabane).—­Showy hardy perennials which make fine bedding plants.  They may be grown from seed, which is produced in great quantities, and merely requires the same treatment as other perennials, or they may be propagated by dividing the plants.  They bloom in July.  Height, 2 ft.

Stephanotis.—­This pretty evergreen twining plant is most suitable for the greenhouse, and flourishes in a mixture of loam and leaf-mould.  It flowers in May, and is increased by cuttings struck in heat.  Height, 10 ft.

Sternbergia Lutea.—­A hardy perennial which produces bright yellow flowers in August.  It likes a rich soil, and is propagated by off-sets.  Height, 6 in.

Stipa Pennata (Feather Grass).—­One of the most graceful of our ornamental grasses, and most attractive in the border.  The seed may be sown early in March, keeping the ground moist until it has germinated, and it is also increased by division.  Height, 2 ft.

Stobaea Purpurea.—­A hardy border plant with long spiny foliage, and bearing from July to September large light blue flowers.  It requires a light, rich soil.  Young cuttings may be struck in sand.  Height, 1 ft.

Stocks—­

ANNUAL, OR TEN WEEKS’ STOCKS.—­Sow the seeds in February, March, April, and May for succession; those sown in May will continue to flower till Christmas.  The soil should be rich, and occasionally a little manure-water may be given.  Another sowing may be made in August and September.  When the plants have several leaves pot off singly in vegetable loam and river sand.  Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.

BROMPTON.—­Sow very thinly during the first week in May in a rich, light, sandy border, with an eastern aspect.  When 2 or 3 in. high, thin out to 9 in. apart.  Those taken out may be re-planted in the flower border, 9 in. from each other.  In transplanting reject those plants having a long tap-root:  they generally prove to be single.  If the following winter be severe they must be protected with mats.  Any desirable varieties may be propagated by cuttings, which root readily under glass if kept shaded.  Should it be desirable to transplant them to another part of the garden, March or April will be found the best time to remove them.  Shade the plants till they are established, and use liquid manure till they begin to flower.