194 MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN BULLETIN 
tion of injury to this famous trunk was regarded with horror 
by the inhabitants. The external examination does not con- 
firm the description which Humboldt attributes to his friend, 
Mr. Anza, but confirms the accounts of Mr. Exter and M. 
Galeotti, that the tree appears to be one solid trunk. 
The measurements of the tree were made with difficulty, 
since it has a considerable swelling, which extends from six 
to eight feet up from the ground, and furthermore because 
of the tremendous buttresses, some of which are three to four 
feet deep. The measurement made by the writer showed 
a circumference of 126 feet, measured breast high. 
The age of this great trunk has pasrally been the subject 
of a great deal of speculation, but due chiefly to the fact that 
we have so few data as to the rate of growth of. these large 
trees during the past century, no very accurate statement 
can be made. However, enough is definitely known to in- 
dicate that a conservative estimate of the age of this trunk 
would be considerably over 4,000 years, and probably nearer 
to 6,000 years. It is hard to realize that this particular tree 
started its growth at a period antedating any human records. 
EVERGREENS 
Evergreens have long been recognized as very effective 
both for decorative and for prastienl whereas Their dark 
green, dense foliage persisting throughout the year, their 
symmetrical, conical forms with the lower branches remain- 
ing intact for a long time, as well as their value as wind- 
breaks, hedges, and backgrounds for groups of deciduous 
trees and shrubs make them an acquisition to any garden, 
large or small. In spite of their many advantages, however, 
evergreens are seldom used within city limits. This is 
due to the fact that they will not usually stand the dust and 
smoke and poisonous gases which are prevalent in the city, 
and it is away from this unnatural environment, in the deep, 
moist soil of the country, that the best effects may be realized. 
Under the term “evergreens” are included the narrow- 
leaved, cone-bearing trees and the broad-leaved shrubs to 
which the azalea and rhododendron belong. Among the 
latter are to be found some of the most effective of orna- 
mental shrubs. In the spring when they are completely 
covered with brilliantly colored flowers, the present a strik- 
ing appearance, while during the rest of the year the dark 
green a is an addition to any landscape. In selecting 
a location for broad-leaved evergreens shelter from the hot 
