58 



STKEET AND HIGHWAY PLANTING. 



the leaf. Otherwise they are quite similar; so similar that there is 

 doubt in many minds that they are distinct species. 



They are native plants with shining evergreen leaves, producing a 

 foliage often used for decorative purposes. The blossoms are incon- 

 spicuous, of a greenish white color, and are followed by small fruits of a 

 dull purplish red color. Some seasons these are very abundant and 

 other seasons seem scarce. In times of great abundance they are some- 

 what of a nuisance underfoot. The Catalina cherry (Prunus integri- 

 folia) is the more vigorous form, with large leaves and somewhat 

 more rapid growth. (Note Fig. 28.) 



Figure 29. 



Mature specimens have a good form, somewhat pyramidal, and attain 

 a moderate size. The shade is of such a density that the trees should 

 not be planted too closely together. 



P. illicifolia is often called ' ' California holly. ' ' 



Prunus Pissardii (Fig. 29) is sometimes found on the parkings. This 

 is a small tree of considerable beauty at flowering time with its myriads 

 of pinkish white flowers, reddish twigs and budding reddish leaves. 

 Unfortunately, however, the mature foliage retains its purple color and 

 hence is not suited for so conspicuous a planting. The tree is not of 

 great longevity and hence cannot be considered permanent, and if the 

 leaves were of a green color it might find considerable use on narrow 

 streets where a maximum of sunlight was desired. 



