SHRUBS 151 
THE FLOWERING ALMOND 
The flowering almond (Prunus japonica) is closely re- 
lated to the peach and apricot and is a good plant for 
the shrubbery border. In May it is covered with showy 
double flowers, the variety Alba plena bearing white 
and Rosea plena pink blossoms. They make their ap- 
pearance along the branches and twigs before the leaves 
appear. The height varies from three to five feet. Both 
varieties are very hardy, growing rapidly, and will do 
well in any kind of soil. 
THE FLOWERING CURRANT 
The flowering currants (/eibes) are all very hardy, of 
rapid growth, and thrive in any good soil. Aibes alpi- 
num (the mountain currant) is a dwarf plant of compact 
habit, and Libes aurewm (the Missouri currant) is of 
medium size. Both bear large clusters of fragrant yellow 
flowers in May. The leaves of the latter are especially 
attractive in autumn, turning to a bright crimson tint. 
Ribes sanguineum has smooth red branches and dark- 
green leaves. Its carmine flowers, of very fine color, 
appear somewhat earlier than the preceding varieties. 
Prunus pissardi, or purple-leaved plum, is one of the 
best red or purple-leaved shrubs. It sometimes grows to 
the height of a small tree. 
Pests. Currant worms may be destroyed by spraying 
the leaves quite early with Paris green or arsenate of lead. 
