impartially applied to possibly twenty plants, each of which for 

 garden purposes is quite distinct. From this it follows that from 

 packets of seed bearing a particular name quite a number of 

 different plants may appear, some of which might be desirable 

 acquisitions. 



i. TALL EVERGREEN TREES. 



Speaking generally, most of the tall trees grow only under 

 forest conditions, and consequently a good many will not thrive 

 in the open. Also, the majority are of such slow growth 

 that, unless ornamental at an early age, they are not suitable 

 for ordinary garden purposes. Tie following, however, will 

 succeed under the common garden conditions unless the 

 contrary be stated : 



(1.) Agathis australis (Kauri). 



The young trees of this celebrated pine are of a pleasing 

 pyramidal form. The species will thrive in a poor soil and a 

 fairly dry climate. Though restricted to the warmest part of 

 the North Island, the kauri can tolerate about 16 F. of frost. 



(2.) Alectryon excelsum (Titoki, New Zealand Ash). 



A handsome tree, 30-60 ft. high, with pinnate leaves 

 4-12 in. long. It is especially ornamental when bearing in 

 abundance its large jet-black seeds half -hidden in their bright 

 scarlet fleshy cups. It is barely hardy. 



(3.) Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu, Red-pine). 



The young plants with their drooping foliage and graceful 

 habit make admirable pot-plants for decorative purposes. 

 Out-of-doors the rimu can only be grown in a moist, 

 sheltered, shady position. 



(4.) Dacrydium Kirkii (Monoao). 



The adult resembles a cypress and the juvenile a silver- 

 fir. The latter attains a height of 30 ft. before suddenly 

 changing its form. It is most elegant with its slender 

 pyramidal habit, leafy to the base, and shining green leaves. 

 The species is half-hardy. 



