OF ORNAMENTAL TREES. 145 



L. SASSAFRAS, Linnceus. Leaves entire or 

 3-lobed. Flowers terminal, frequently dioe- 

 cious. Buds and pedicels downy. Sassafras. 



In my opinion, one of the most interesting 

 trees that can be in a landscape, the glau- 

 cous green of its foliage is so uncommon ; 

 and it is one of the first to aid in forming 

 that beautiful picture of autumnal forest 

 scenery which has so enraptured European 

 travellers, and gives the American landscape 

 a position amongst the special beauties of the 

 world. The sassafras generally grows in a 

 conical form ; but the leaves are mostly formed 

 on the branches in lines running horizontally, 

 causing a very pleasing effect in light and 

 shade. Towards the fall, the leaves turn to 

 a reddish-brown, turning up at the edges, 

 with a beautiful appearance. Unfortunately, 

 nature seldom gives her beauties unalloyed; 

 and, in the case before us, the suckers which- 

 it perseveringiy throws up in spite of all 

 opposition, render it objectionable. It is 

 readily propagated from suckers, or by seeds 

 sown in June, as soon as ripe. It thrives 

 well in dry sandy loam, but will grow in any 

 situation. The best Bartram specimen is 

 13 V 



