Holly, Yew and Box 



the atmosphere pure. It must not, however, be 

 inferred that it is impossible to cultivate the 

 various sections of the great family in any but 

 peaty soil, for very satisfactory results are 

 obtained in moderately heavy loam, providing 

 lime is absent, or present in minute quantities 

 only. 



All the species suitable for outdoor culture in 

 the British Isles are of European origin, for 

 although in a few of the warmer parts of the 

 country South African species have been tried, 

 they have not proved an unqualified success. 

 Some of the most beautiful of the European 

 species are found growing naturally in Spain 

 and Portugal, consequently they are unsuitable 

 for cold districts ; they, however, grow admirably 

 in the southern and western counties, and are 

 also a success in some parts of the midlands. 

 It may safely be assumed that they will with- 

 stand from 15 to 1 8 degrees Fahr. of frost 

 without injury, providing that temperature is not 

 extended over a longer period than two or three 

 days ; but if the temperature becomes lower, and 

 no steps are taken to provide protection, death 

 or serious injury is the result. About London 

 the more tender species have stood without 

 injury through the last twelve winters ; the 

 severe winter of 1894-5, however, proved fatal 

 to many. On the arrival of severe frost it is a 

 good plan to sprinkle a quantity of dry leaves 



236 



