LECHENAULTIA (formerly seen as Leschenaultia). These are among the most beautiful of Australian flowering shrubs, though we must explicitly not recommend them for the average gardener. They are generally small and often spreading in habit. Their branches are slender and clothed with narrow heath-like leaves. Irregular two-lipped flowers, resembling those of Lobelia, are presented at the shoot tips in spring and fall. They are painted some of the brightest, purest shades to be found among flowering plants. Difficult to maintain in good condition, they often perform best in containers. Cuttings are easy to root and should be taken once or twice a year to insure perpetuation of the plants. Sun or light shade, sandy, well drained soil, moderate to occasional watering. The following are hardy to around 20^oF.

biloba. Rather erect and around 2’ (sometimes 3’) tall. The 3/4" leaves are light bluish green in color. Flowers are about 1½" broad in this selection, borne several to a cluster, and colored a brilliant true blue. Plants are not currently available here, but it is well worth seeking.

formosa. A spreading shrub, usually not much over 1’ tall. It has closely packed, dark green leaves. The small flowers are borne in profusion for several weeks in spring and fall. ‘Scarlet O’Hara’ has scarlet blossoms. Another, yet unnamed selection has orange flowers.