274. Trees for Shade and Ornament 
species of small trees (fifteen to thirty feet), is one of the loveliest of 
early bloomers in the woods (early April), with pure white, delicate 
flowers in short, open racemes, appearing with the delicate foliage in 
Fic. 96.—TItalian Alder. Alnus cordifolia Ten. 
profusion, beginning the show when quite young. The thin, rose- 
like, light green leaves turn golden-yellow; the dark blue, edible fruit 
is formed in June, and gives rise to its Canadian name, Sugar Plum. 
A round-headed small tree, it is fit for small places or to be grown in 
shrub form on hillsides, embankments, etc., being hardy everywhere. 
It is good as a filler in large masses and combined with evergreens. 
