The Italian Dwarf Peach. 287 



THE ITALIAN DWARF PEACH. 



This curious variety, although introduced into our collections several 

 years since, is comparatively unknown to our pomologists at the present 

 time ; and, whilst its cultivation can never be extensively entered into, our 

 private gardens will receive a valuable addition by its general dissemina- 

 tion, especially when treated as an ornamental plant. 



For particular situations it is more desirable than its near relative. Van 

 Burefi's Golden, as its much dwarfer habit is a desideratum to be taken into 

 account when placed in limited grounds. The first season, it presents an 

 exceedingly curious appearance, with its short, thick branches densely 

 clothed with long, green leaves, and, in fact, resembling a globular mass of 

 foliage but nine or ten inches in height. 



As the tree increases in size, it forms one of the most unique little orna- 

 ments of which we have any knowledge, more especially when loaded with 

 fruit. Its ultimate height may possibly reach four or five feet ; although 

 we have never seen a specimen over three feet, and the one in question 

 was several years of age. 



The blossoms are large and quite showy, and the fruit is of medium size, 

 with pure white skin as well as flesh ; parts readily from the stone ; and is 

 very juicy, and of fair quality. Whilst we cannot recommend this variety 

 as possessing a great excellency of flavor, we do consider it very agreeable 

 and refreshing. For pot-culture, perhaps, it is best adapted, as its natural 

 shrubby habit renders it a complete success when grown in this manner. 

 Without the usual practice of pruning or shortening in of the branches, it 

 adapts itself perfectly to the situation ; and is always a well-shaped tree 

 from necessity, notwithstanding it is said " necessity knows no law." As 

 to the compression of its roots to produce fruitfulness, we doubt if the 

 practice is at all beneficial as in the case of other free-growing varieties. 



In regard to its hardiness, an experience of eight or ten years justifies 

 us in returning an affirmative answer in this respect. The most severe 

 winters in the neighborhood of Philadelphia have heretofore failed to injure 

 it, when growing in the most exposed situations, even whilst young ; and, 

 for our Northern friends, its dwarf habit enables it to be readily protected, 



