This hardy deciduous shrub was introduced from Japan about twenty years ago under name of Valkameria Japonica, but in more recent classifications is called Clerodendron serotinum. It forms a large spreading bush 10 feet high, clothed with a rich mass of broad acuminate leaves, which emit a slightly foetid odor when crushed or when wet with dew in evenings. The young wood, petioles and under surface of leaves are thickly covered with a soft velvety pubes-cense. The plant blooms profusely in the eighth and ninth months, each branch of young growth bearing a Clerodendron Serotinum- large terminal panicle of pretty flowers that are pleas antly fragrant with a mild daphne or verbena odor. The angular sack-like calyx is of a rosy or purple shade and the protruding corolla and long slender stamens and pistil are white, with the anthers dark brown or slate color. The plant grows freely in rich land and is readily propagated from suckers; also from hard wood cuttings and root cuttings. In fact, the tendency to sucker freely when its roots are disturbed would be an objection to its introduction into some situations, while this habit makes it the more valuable for a cover plant on hillsides and waste corners.

There is, however, no difficulty in keeping it insubjectionor eradicating it when desired. Its scarcity in this country is entirely owing to the neglect of nurserymen, as it is a fine showy plant which will help to supply the demand for good antumn bloomers and adds a pleasing variety to our limited list of hardy shrubs that bloom at this time of year. - Samuel C. Moon, Morris-ville, Bucks Co., Pa.