iSyi.] NOTES ON ''AMERICAN" SHRUBS. 445 



folium, and intermedium, all of them very dwarf, seldom rising above 

 6 inches high, and resembling in their dense habit and small foliage 

 some of the species of Heaths with which they are commonly asso- 

 ciated in the peat -beds, and to which they form appropriate com- 

 panions. The flowers when in bud are of a delicate pink colour, 

 changing to a pure white when fully expanded. These are also natives 

 of America, but found growing in more elevated positions, and requir- 

 ing a drier situation and a somewhat sandier soil for their successful 

 culture. They thrive well in rockwork, and form admirable edgings 

 to borders of peat- soil shrubs ; seldom requiring trimming, and grow- 

 ing as dense as the common dwarf Box. 



GAULTHERIA. 



A genus of pretty dwarf evergreens, all of them interesting, and, 

 we are convinced, not nearly so widely ap23reciated by horticulturists 

 as they deserve ; the handsome shining foliage and elegant flowers, fol- 

 lowed by showy fruit, of several of the species, ought to have secured 

 them far more extended cultivation. Among the various sorts at pre- 

 sent known, we select three as being the best and most distinct, and, 

 at the same time, thoroughly hardy in almost any situation : — 



Procumhens. — A native of North America from Canada to YKginia, 

 growing in dry woods, on mountains, and in sandy plains. Is a small 

 creeping shrub with obovate leaves, and white flowers which are pro- 

 duced in July and August. This plant is invaluable for covering the 

 surface of the ground on dry banks or -borders shaded with trees ; in 

 such a situation, if liberally supplied with peat, it is most eff'ective, 

 forming a dense carpet of bright foliage, and rarely higher than 6 

 inches. The fruit, which is a bright scarlet berry, has a sweetish 

 peculiar flavour, is much relished in America, and forms the favourite 

 food of partridges, deer, and many other animals ; while the leaves, 

 when properly dried, are used as a substitute for tea. 



Shallon. — Also from North America, but found growing in damper situ- 

 ations, and often so much shaded that it forms the only undergrowth. 

 It has a procumbent habit, though much more robust than the last 

 species, and forms a dense mass of foliage in woods or shady borders. 

 The flowers, of a pure white colour, are in perfection in May. Apart 

 from its value as an ornamental plant, this species might be introduced 

 extensively with great advantage in woods and shrubberies, for the 

 shelter and food it supplies to game. The berries, of a reddish-purple 

 colour, are produced, where it thrives, in great abundance, and are most 

 delicious as well as wholesome. 



Acuminata is a South American species of great beauty, and hardy 

 enough for most situations. The leaves are larger than the last-named 



