Page 2 Advertisements Column 3

New Zealand Times, Volume XXX, Issue 4604, 22 December 1875, Page 2

Mention is made by the Chronicle of a [ strange-looking flower in the Maryborough Botanic Garden, which attracts attention by 1 its hideous appearance and atrocious odour. Without stem, stalk, or leaves, the calyx, in. shape and size like a wash-hand basin, proceeds immediately from the large tuberous root, and envelopes a thick columnar spadix, the upper part of which is surmounted by a rounded hood. The whole plant or flower is or a repulsive liver-coloured hue, and at a little distance looks like a portion of the “pluck” of some dead animal, an illusion strengthened by its exhaling a strong smell of putrid meat, which attracts clouds of blow-flies. The latter characteristics, however, was only temporary ; as soon as the flies had performed their part by scattering the pollen and fertilising the blossom, the stench—for such it really was—entirely ceased. The plant in question is the Amovphophallus campannlatnm, and is a member of the Araceous order, which includes the S. S. Island taro, the caladiums, and other useful or ornamental plants. The one here referred to, if not ornamental, is one of sufficient utility to deserve extended cultivation. It is called “01," by the Bengalese, and is also known in India as the Telinga potato, being largely grown in the Northern Circars, where, according to Dr. Roxburgh, it is much esteemed for the wholesomeness and nourishing quality of the roots, which grow to an enormous size, forming a mass almost too heavy for a man to lift. The introduction of the plant as a field crop would, however, evidently be attended with a certain amount of “ unpleasantness.” Judging from the strength of the emanations of only one plant—which were plainly perceptible many yards off—a field of Amorphophallus in full bloom would, for the time being, suffice to depopulate a whole district. Wasxox's Wizard Oil axd Magic Pirns have cured more wonderful cases of Rhcumuustn, Oout, Neuralgia, Aches, Pains, Swellings. Breasts, Bums, Scuhis, and Salt-Phcum, upon the human frame, than all the pretended remedies have since the world began. These Great American Alcalcines, are composed of vegetable oils, healingyums. roots and herbs; and act like a charm upon pain an d inflammation. Sole Agents—Kempthorne 1 ros-wr and Co., Dunedin. Price half a-crown.