GENUS ABIES. 9 



cescence with which the leaves of this variety are covered 

 renders it one of the most distinct and pleasing of ornamental 

 conifers. It is quite hardy, free of growth, and deserves to be 

 widely known and appreciated. 



A. firma, Siebold and Zuccarinl. {Synonyms: Pimts 

 firma, Antoine ; Abies holophylla, Maximowicz ; A. bifiday 

 Siebold and Zuccarini ; A. homolepis^ Siebold and Zuccarini.) 

 Japan. 1861. For the great variability of its foliage this tree 

 is remarkable, and to which fact may be attributed the list 

 of synonyms with which it is encumbered. The somewhat 

 stiff, deep, glossy green foliage and partially erect habit of 

 growth, as seen in the few specimens that are to be found in 

 this country, renders the tree of some value for ornamental 

 planting. The leaves range from under to considerably over 

 an inch in length, some being flat and given off at right angles 

 to the shoot, while others are short and up-curved. The 

 cones are cylindrical, about 5 inches long, with imbricated 

 scales and upward-pointing bracts, which terminate in sharp 

 angular points. 



It seems to be grateful for shelter from cold draughts of 

 wind, and evidently thrives best in light, rich loam. In the 

 younger stages of growth the leaves are oft distinctly cleft at 

 the tips, hence the name bifida^ but with age this gradually 

 gives way. 



A. Fraseri, Lindley. {Synonyms: Picea Fraseri, Lou- 

 don ; Pinus Fraseri, Parlatore.) Mountains of Carolina and 

 Pennsylvania. 181 1. This tree has little to recommend it, 

 whether for ornament or utility, when planted in these islands. 

 It bears considerable resemblance to A. balsamea, and is in 

 consequence often confounded with that species ; but, in the 

 absence of fruit, which is a speedy method of recognition, the 

 structure of the leaves will always determine the difference. 

 The more slender and upright growth, and smaller dark green, 

 thickly-arranged leaves, are also differences that might be 

 well pointed out in connection with the present species and 

 A. balsamea. The cones are oval in shape, with conspicuous 

 reflexed bracts. This is the tree which caused the mountains 



