dry up the soil near its surface; when cut down, the trees die at once, not making any attempt to shoot or break.

Metrosideros lucida, Menz. A very handsome myrtle-like foliaged shrub, growing in many places to a large tree; in its native state the Rata is usually found growing amongst the crevices of rocks, which, during the month of January, are enlivened with its brilliant scarlet blossoms. We have had this plant under cultivation for many years; in good soil, it makes fine vigorous growth; it may be raised from seed (which requires a considerable time to ripen); it can be propagated by cuttings; after a shift or two, it forms such a mass of fibrous roots that it can be removed with perfect safety. It is hardy enough for any aspect; a free current of air is absolutely necessary to preserve its compact habit.

Metrosideros tomentosa, Cunn. The Pohutukawa under cultivation grows in a compact form, and blossoms freely; with us, its growth is slower than that of M. lucida, but it is hardy enough to withstand the rigour of our winter.

Myrtus bullata, Banks and Sol. A nice-looking upright-growing shrub, which often may be noticed under cultivation in the North. The yellowish green leaf presents a blistered appearance.

Myrtus obcordata, Hook. f. Common about the bays of Port Cooper, where it may be frequently observed on the outskirts of the bush, attaining the size of a small tree, from 6 to 12 inches diameter. It is of slow growth, but compact habit; its small pale green obcordate leaves are variegated with a brownish green tint on the margin and along the course of the nerves. Flowers in December.

Myrtus pedunculata, Hook. f. Far less compact than the preceding species; its glaucous leaves are somewhat oblong. Blossoms in December; grows best in a shady situation.

The Myrtles thrive in any light soil, not too wet, and are easily raised from seed.