360 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF 



those who are waiting and watching for spring. Its large compound leaves (the 

 ALscirius hippocastanum) afford a shade more dense than that of any other tree. In 

 parks and on lawns, where its growth is not restricted, this tree assumes a grand, 

 massive appearance that always arrests the eye. In early spring it is gay with large 

 white and pink flowers whose erect panicles standing on the upturned tips of the 

 branches are suggestive of a leafy candelabra, an effect that is heightened when one 

 remembers the peculiar appearance in this respect of the tree in winter. Objection 

 has been made to the horse chestnuts because at times there is too much litter on the 

 sidewalks under them. But, if people sweep their sidewalks daily there need be no 

 trouble from this source ; and if they do nc'; keep their walks clean they will neglect 

 their trees, also, in which case it is immaterial what species is planted. The question 

 of insects is discussed later on. 



The Sweet Gum, or Liquidambar, so named from the fragrant balsam which exudes 

 when the trunk is wounded, is an ornamental tree of about eighty feet in height and 

 two feet in diameter. In some localities it attains a much greater size. It is a rapid 

 grower and thrives on almost any soil. Its glossy, star-shaped leaf makes it a favorite 

 with all students of phyllotaxy. In autumn its foliage changes to a deep crimson 

 interspersed with yellow. Where a variety of species may be deemed desirable this 

 tree should not be omitted. In street planting it could be used for several blocks with 

 good effect. 



Of the various species of Ash, the White Ash is the one best adapted for 

 ornament and shade. It may be classed fairly among the large trees, the trunk 

 attaining considerable height before it subdivides, which, like the elm, makes it 

 desirable for street purposes. Its foliage is pleasing in appearance, growing in 

 irregular, waving masses, but without any abrupt or broken outlines. The ash is 

 among the last to put out its leaves in spring and among the first to lose them in the 

 fall. In the latter season its foliage assumes a variety of colors, violet, brown, and 

 dark chocolate. Wilson Flagg notes that the ash is the only tree that shows a clear 

 brown as one of its regular series of tints in the living leaf. Like most trees with 

 compound leaves it sheds its spray with- the leaves in fall, leaving naked, angular 

 branches that detract from the beauty of its habit* in winter. Its freedom from 

 disease and insects commends it to all tree planters. 



In street planting, the oaks have hitherto been used but sparingly. The few that 

 appear here and there along country roads seem to owe their existence to accident 

 rather than design. This is probably due to their slower growth, a disadvantage 

 which is fully offset by their hardiness and longer life. The oak is a noble tree, its 

 size and sturdy character entitling it to a prominent place in our streets and parks. In 



* Botanical term relating to the general aspect of a tree, arrangement of limbs, or mode of growth. 



