1900.] ESSAYS. 95 



DECIDUOUS SHRUBS. 



We are fortunate in having a very large number of desirable 

 native deciduous shrubs. Wo must include as among the best 

 a few which are commonly regarded as undesirable by farmers, 

 because they grow naturally along the hedge-rows and require 

 cutting every year, to keep them from encroaching upon the 

 Helds and meadows. 



The sumac is one of the most decorative of these. Both the 

 smooth sumac, Rhus glabra , and the staghorn, R. hirta, are de- 

 sirable ornamental shrubs. The foliage is excellent, turning a 

 most brilliant crimson in autumn, and the bright red fruit re- 

 mains throughout the cold weather — interesting, and a bit of 

 color in the dreary landscape. The smooth sumac has leaves 

 dark green above and nearly white beneath, and both colors 

 show in the summer breezes. 



The Viburnums may all be classed as desirable shrubs, lentayo 

 lantanoides and dentatum being especially attractive. V. Opulus 

 is also good. 



As it grows naturally the button bush, Gephalanthus occident- 

 al!*, is a most excellent shrub. The foliage is bright and clean 

 and covers well to the ground. The seeds persist in spherical 

 heads long after the globe-like Mowers have passed. The flowers 

 are white and appear in August. 



The black alder, Ilex verticillata, is now used occasionally 

 and makes a most beautiful sight in autumn, when covered with 

 bright red berries. 



Red osier dog-wood gives us re j twigs which are so attractive 

 in winter, especially when used in connection with the yellow 

 ones of willow. 



The wild azaleas, JSfadiJiora and viscosa, are most desirable 

 shrubs and should receive further recognition. 



The sweet pepper bush, Qlelln-u alnifolia, has many attrac- 

 tions. 



The common native alder, Alnus zncana, gives most excellent 

 foliage effects and will be a good plant to use for prominent 

 situations in our groups and borders. 



Though introduced into America, our common barberry is 



