Acer Japanese Maples. 53 



in this country, and can be grown in tree or bush form as 

 may be desired. The foliage is rather small, deeply lobed, 

 and has a habit of taking on different forms as well as colors, 

 the young growth materially differing from the older on 

 the same tree. In the fall special tints are assumed, 

 which add much to its attractiveness. The bark is smooth, 

 and, all things considered, it is one of the prettiest small 

 trees that can be planted in ordinary locations. 



A. p. atropurpureum. This is known as the dark 

 purple-leaved Japan maple, and is probably more largely 

 planted than any other variety. It is identical with the 

 preceding except in the color of the foliage, though per- 

 haps not of quite so vigorous growth. Planted in groups, 

 few things are more effective, and it retains its color well 

 into autumn. Where contrasts are desired, nothing serves 

 a better purpose and harmonizes so well with the other 

 plants of its class. A. p. atropurpureum nigrum has still 

 darker leaves. 



A. p. atropurpureum dissectiim. This is a dwarf, pen- 

 dulous form of the most exquisite beauty, and, though 

 not found in most gardens, is worthy of a place in all. 

 The bark on the smaller branches is crimson, and the foli- 

 age is so finely cut as to give it the appearance of beauti- 

 ful lace or hanging draperies. The leaves are bright 

 rose-color when young, but as the season advances change 

 to a dark purple, retaining, however, their beauty to the 

 last. At its best the tree grows to a height of ten to 

 twelve feet, but as usually seen in American gardens is 

 scarcely more than five or six. Mr. H. H. Berger, the 

 California florist and importer, who saw the plant in its 



