BALSA'3IINA, one of the two genera of which the natural order Balsaminacem consists. It differs from Impatiens in hnving all its anthers 2-celled, its stigmas distinct, and the valves' of its fruits curling Inwards when bursting. There are numerous species, 'several of which have very handsome flowers. They are chiefly found in the damper parts of the Faun Indices ; but the only one that is much known In Europe Ls the common Garden Balsam (Balsamina horiensis), which in its double state has been an object of cultivation since the earliest records of modern horticulture. This plant, which In supposed to be found wild in the mountainous parts of Silhct, In the form of what botanists call Ilalsamina tripetata, in one of those species which not only has a tendency to vary with double flowers, but has also the power of continuing to produce them when renewed from seeds. On thin account it particularly deserves the attention of the cultivator, especially as it may be brought by art to n state of beauty equalled by few plants. All that is necessary In order to secure fine Balsams, is, first to save the seed with great care from the finest and most double flowers only, throwing away all whole-coloured and single blossoms ; and secondly, to cultivate the plants with a due regard to the natural habits of the species. A native of the hot damp shady woods of
Silhet, it is incapable of bearing much drought or bright sunshine. It should therefore be raised in a hot-bed, treated with great care as a tender annual, grown in rich soil, sheltered from excessive sunlight, and kept constantly in a damp atmosphere, but freely and fully venti lated. It should not however be stimulated into extremely rapid growth until the plants have become stout bushes and the flowers have grown to the size of small peas. At that time the plants should have all the heat and moisture they can bear, and the most brilliant flowers the plant is capable of producing will be the result. In the letter stage of growth great care is still to betaken to expose the plants fully to air.