ORNAMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS FOR MONTANA 33 



THE WILLOWS. 



The willows include a large number of shrubs and small trees, 

 several of which are native to Montana. Willows are found grow- 

 ing on moist or wet ground and will not thrive under cultivation 

 unless considerable moisture is given them. All the trees of this 

 genus are easily propagated from hard wood cuttings taken in the 

 fall or early spring and planted in moist soil. Several of the native 

 species are valuable for wind breaks and shelter belts, but are not 

 desirable plants for shrubbery groups or lawn planting. Several in- 

 troduced varieties have been tested here. 



Laurel-Leaved Willow: (Salix pentandra) In 1904 this 

 species was planted in the experimental nursery and appears to be 

 perfectly hardy at this time. The leaves are large, very dark green 

 and shining above. This is a valuable plant for producing quick 

 effects in shrubbery groups. 



Yellow Willow: (Salix vitellina) This species grows into 

 a medium sized tree and is found growing in Bozeman as a street 

 and shade tree. It is not desirable, however, for this purpose, as 

 it does not give a dense shade and the leaves fall throughout the 

 whole summer, a very undesirable characteristic for the street or 

 lawn. 



Diamond Willow: (Salix vestita) Plants of this species 

 were introduced from North Dakota in 1908 and at this time seem 

 to be entirely hardy. This tree is claimed to be valuable for fence 

 post material, as the wood is said to be very durable in contact 

 with the soil. It is a native of Montana. 



SHEPHERDIA. 



Buffalo Berry: (Shepherdia argentea) This is an upright 

 .-hrub, reaching a height of from 10 to 15 feet. The young growth 

 and both sides of the leaves are covered with a silvery white coat- 

 ing of hairs. The fruits are about one-fourth inch long, red or 

 yellow, and are much used in Montana for domestic purposes. This 

 plant is a native of Montana and is hardy under cultivation. It is 

 a desirable plant for the shrubbery and also makes a good protective 

 hedge as its stems are covered with thorns. 



