FLOWEKING TREES AND SHRUBS 13 



Aster* See Microglossa. 

 Atragene. Sec Clematis. 



Atriplex (Chenopodiaceae), 



ATRIPLEX HALIMUS. Mediterranean Region, 1640. This 

 is a sea-coast shrub of dwarf habit, the ovate, oblong leaves 

 being thickly clothed with a greyish, scaly indumentum. 



It is quite hardy, and being of dwarf, spreading growth 

 is to be recommended, although the flowers are by no 

 means attractive. 



Azalea, See Rhododendron. 



Azara (Bixineae). 



AZARA MICROPHYLLA. Chili, 1873. This is the only 

 recognized hardy species, and probably the best from an 

 ornamental point of view. In mild seaside districts it 

 may succeed as a standard in the open ground, but 

 generally it is cultivated as a wall plant, for which it is 

 peculiarly suitable. The small, dark-green, glossy leaves 

 are thickly arranged on the nearly horizontal branches, 

 while the greenish flowers, if they lack in point of showi- 

 ness, are deliciousiy fragrant and plentifully produced. For 

 wall-covering, especially in an eastern aspect, it is one 

 of the neatest of shrubs. 



Other species in cultivation are A. serrata, A. lanceo- 

 lata, and A. integrifolia, but for general planting, and 

 unless under the most favoured conditions, they are 

 not to be recommended. The Azaras are by no means 

 particular about the quality of soil in which they are 

 planted, and succeed well even in stiffish loam, bordering 

 on clay. 



