IRIS SIBIRICA 



will pile themselves up in masses, and if any shrub is within reach will 

 clamber over it, producing an effect entirely pleasing. There is nothing 

 more charming in nature than the combination of shrub or tree with wild 

 vines. Who has not seen the living canopy of green formed by the wild 

 grape over the top of some tree or the stronger-growing shrubs, or how 

 some wild vine converts a thicket of brambles and an old fence into 

 objects of beauty that the most ambitious gardener might copy? 



It is not possible to name all of the desirable hardy shrubs and 

 plants now obtainable; but I think it is well to give a list of what I 

 would commend as the very best, taking into consideration their ease of 

 culture, as well as the beauty of their bloom, form, and foliage. I know 

 many would disagree with me as to the contents of this list, but I am 

 confident that the beginner could make no mistake in including any 

 or all of the varieties named in this planting list. I have tried to name 

 these plants and shrubs somewhat in the order they hold in my esteem ; 

 but this is a difficult matter, as I am very apt to think the finest thing 

 to be the last fine thing that I have seen. 



