482 ON USEFUL AND BOOK I. 



that they are not generally distinguished. The difference is ob- 

 vious when the foliage and small twigs or spray are compared ; 

 that of the English laburnum being much smaller and more 

 delicate than the Scotch *, and hence it is in general more fit 

 for shrubberies. The Scotch is of very large growth, and excel- 

 lently calculated for poor gravelly soil, rocky banks, or rocky 

 margins of water. In the two last situations they may be seen 

 in considerable perfection at South wick. 



6. The Norway maple grows freely under the shade and 

 drip of other trees. In autumn it assumes a beautiful yellow 

 colour. It is altogether a much more graceful tree than the 

 common sycamore ; and in most cases, particularly where or- 

 nament is a consideration, it ought to supersede the planting of 

 that tree. Exemplified at Foxley, Scone, and Croome Park. 



7. Poplars. — The Lombardy poplar is esteemed the most 

 profitable tree that can be planted in several parts of the west 

 of England ; particularly in Shropshire, where it is erroneously 

 called the Italian poplar. When introduced sparingly, and in 

 particular circumstances and situations, as near buildings, or 

 backed by other trees, it is highly ornamental. When opposed 

 to the sky, it has commonly a meagre effect. The peculiarity 



* See Hanbury, 



