TREES FOR THE ROCK GARDEN 141 



bronzy crimson. Like other plants, Conifers differ 

 greatly as to constitution, and judgment must be 

 used in their choice. The dwarf alpine form of the 

 Common Juniper (Juniperus communis nand) is very 

 hardy and slow-growing, never becoming too ram- 

 pant for the smallest Rock Garden, and shares the 

 blue-grey tint which is so characteristic of this beau- 

 tiful species. /. c. alpina aurea is a delightful small- 

 growing Conifer. In summer the foliage is light 

 yellow, and in^ winter heavily shaded with bronzy 

 yellow. Very distinct from it is the lovely pros- 

 trate Savin (/. Sabina procumbens), one of the best 

 of evergreen shrubs for the Rock Garden, and one 

 most restful and satisfying to the eye at all times 

 in its deep tones of sea green. A first-rate variety 

 is /. 5. tamarisa '.folia, which is of very spreading 

 growth. 



Cupressus pisifera, almost plumose in one of its 

 many variations, and C. obtusa y both better known 

 perhaps under the garden name of Retinosporas, are 

 admirable, and may be used either in the normal or 

 the dwarf forms according to the greater or less 

 space at command. Almost the last tree, probably, 

 which one would expect to see draping the vertical 

 face of a rock is the Spruce Fir, yet a weeping variety 

 (Picea excelsa pendula) is exceedingly effective in such a 

 position as a foil to hanging masses of richly-coloured 

 Aubrietias or Golden Alyssum, while it looks well at 

 all seasons. Mention may here be made of a remark- 

 able Conifer, Cunninghamia smenst's, of great beauty 

 and very distinct character, which takes the shape, 



