394 



DECIDUOUS TREES. 



is dark green. The tree is believed to be hardy, and, as far as we 

 can learn, is not subject to the attacks of the borer which destroys 

 our locust trees. Loudon says of it: "None of the arboreous 

 leguminacae are equal to this tree in beaut}' of foliage and bark. 

 Its flowers (which are cream-colored and appear in August), when 

 they are produced, are also in large terminal-compound spikes, and 

 very conspicuous, though smaller than those of the Robinia viscosa. 

 One remarkable property in the sophora is, that the very hottest 

 and driest seasons do not pale the foliage, or cause it to drop off." 

 The peculiar tone of its foliage is a deep velvety green, that is 

 unequalled by any deciduous tree we know of It requires a thor- 

 oughly drained soil. The leaves are among the last to surrender 

 to autumn frosts, and turn to a yellowish-green before they fall. 

 The bark exhales a strong odor when cut, and is said to produce 

 colic on those who are engaged in pruning the tree. 



The Weeping Japan Sophora, S.j. pendula, is the finest of 

 small pendulous trees when grafted on a thrifty, stock at a height 



of seven to twelve feet from the 

 ground. Its young branches are 

 green and somewhat angular or 

 crooked, so that in winter the 

 tree has a knotted and curious 

 look. Its deep velvety-green 

 color, delicately formed acacia- 

 like foliage, and the bold breaks 

 of light and shade in its head, 

 altogether make so rich an effect 

 as to attract the attention of all observers. It is, at the same time, 

 symmetrical and picturesque, while the Kilmarnock willow is mo- 

 notonously symmetrical or lumpish. It seems to be difficult to 

 propagate this variety. Specimens well started, standard height, 

 still command a high price at the nurseries. Fig. 124 is a 

 representation of the prettiest specimen of the weeping Japan 

 sophora we have seen, growing in the deep rich sandy loam of 

 Parsons' specimen grounds at Flushing, L. I. It is grafted but 

 seven feet from the ground, and the branches, spreading first with 



