Mr. Charles E. Parnell writes: "Would you be so kind as to inform me, through the Monthly, if there is any difference between Salvia amabilis and S. farinacea? I purchased them as distinct varieties, but see no distinction. Are my plants true to name, or what is the correct name?

[Botanists find no difference between the two. Amabilis is regarded as a synonym. Salvia farinacea is, however, a very variable species, and we are not sure but there may be found differences enough to warrant florists in keeping them apart. - Ed. G. M.]