ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT— EVERGREEN TREES 
53 
Coniferae: EVERGREEN TREES. 
S he distinguishing feature of this great group of trees is the cone- 
bearing habit. The ornamental value of the conifers consists in their 
evergreen habit, for all except the Larch, Golden Lai'ch, Bald Cypress 
and Ginkgo retain their leaves throughout the Winter. In an ornamental 
way they are highly prized because of their interesting characteristics, 
which are, in the main: their somber foliage of gray to dark green shades; 
their symmetrical, conical form during the early period of their life, with 
a branch system persisting at the base for a long time; in the dignity of 
the straight, cylindrical trunk and high towering, variously shaped crown 
in later life and in the picturesque and rugged beauty of the old and time- 
worn trees. Although they lack the interesting seasonal changes of the 
deciduous trees, the persistence of their foliage makes them especially ef- 
fective for Winter scenery and for shelter. However, special care is nec- 
essary in the location and proper use of this family. 
On account of their shape, mode of growth, and relative inability to 
repair damage, they are not fit for street trees. Their best use is as single 
specimens or in small groups or as screens. Most of them being somber 
and having a tendency to promote dampness, they should not be placed 
near houses. An over planting of them produces a gloomy appearance as 
well. 
Reference to the 
Index in back of 
catalog will facili- 
tate finding the 
