View source for Ostrowskia

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Ostrowskia (after N. ab Ostrowsky, Russian patron of science). Campanulaceae. Giant Bell-flower. One species, a very large-flowered perennial herb.

Very closely allied botanically to Campanula but distinguished, according to Hooker, by the whorled Lvs., the numerous divisions of the calyx and lobes of the corolla and of the cells of the ovary and stigmas, and by the pores in the caps, double the number of sepals.—The single species is a stately plant of Cent. Asia, first described as recently as 1884, and exhibited in England in 1888. It is a hardy plant, prop, readily by seeds if they are sown as soon as mature, although the plants may not bloom under 3 or 4 years. The long tuberous roots do not bear division well and this is probably one reason why it is not more popular with dealers.

The reason for O. magnifica not being catalogued in this country is the difficulty in its successful growing and over-wintering. It requires a light sandy soil, rich in humus and of considerable depth, for the roots of the thick fleshy stock go down deep. A high ground and open sunny exposure are a necessity. After the flowering season, plants like oriental poppies and ostrowskia dry up and should be kept dormant. To prevent growing in autumn; plantations should be protected from excessive moisture. A slopy ground with good drainage is of advantage. For winter cover, dry pine-needles covered with tar-paper are best; leaves will also answer, but by all means avoid manure protection. In early spring, the young growth needs to be protected from late frosts. Treated this way, ostrowskias can be grown in this country and are indeed beautiful border plants.— Propagation is by root- or top-cuttings in spring. Seeds unless sown fresh, require a long time for germination. Seedlings require from three to four years cultivating before reaching a really effective size. 
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