202 Choice of Plant Material 



[;ersistence rather than rapidity of growth should be looked 

 for, keeping in mind that ultimate size must also be consid- 

 ered with reference to the width of the street. 



With these points in mind we shall briefly examine the 

 more common of our native species which lend themselves 

 to ornamental planting, and such of the exotic, arbores- 

 cent flora as have become thoroughly and generally estab- 

 lished in our country; and finally give a few lists of species 

 adapted to special situations and purposes. 



There are in existence several thousand species, varieties, 

 and forms of trees, and perhaps not less than two thousand 

 are found cultivated in parks and gardens, and of North 

 American species alone nearly two hundred and fifty. But, 

 if we confine ourselves to the consideration of the enumerated 

 (nearly four hundred) species, we shall have at least included 

 the best for general use. 



As we have said, adaptation to climate is a conditio sine 

 qua 71011. Hence, we limit the enumeration of species 

 adapted to climatic conditions in the Eastern States, north and 

 south. Nor can we enter into an extensive discussion of 

 the ornamental value of our many species. In this respect 

 we may only give a few general hints, referring the reader 

 to such discussions of this phase of the subject as are found 

 in books on Landscape Gardening. 



A few general remarks regarding ornamental values and 

 some other guiding points, which may accentuate essentials 

 in this respect, and a few facts, known to the professional 

 landscape gardener, but not often discussed in books, may 

 w^ell precede our enumeration. 



Ornamental value is in the first place a matter of indi- 

 vidual taste; but there are standards of taste which it is well 

 to consult before setting up one's own standard. 



Since the impression of beauty is largely produced by the 



