great estates open their gates to the public, who come 
from miles around to see the radiant stranger from 
across the water. 
In our own country,— though both Rhododendron 
and Kalmia are generally known, for we make trips 
to the hills in summer to return with our arms full 
of their beautiful flowers, and in winter festoon the 
evergreen branches of laurel for holiday decorations,— 
few realize how valuable they can be as factors in the 
adornment of our home grounds. 
Where an evergreen effect is desired ; either in the 
woods, along the drives leading to the house of an 
estate, whether large or small, in close relationship to 
the house itself; or to set off some architectural fea¬ 
ture, such as gates, seats, etc., the Rhododendron is 
invaluable. Where it is desired to create an almost 
immediate effect and lessen expense a great deal, 
Rhododendron maximum has no equal. 
Architects and landscape architects are realizing 
more and more every day the great value of the 
native Rhododendron; and, recognizing the perfect 
hardiness of the plant in almost all situations, the 
practicability of using it in large quantities at a nor¬ 
mal expense, and the handsome effects produced by 
both foliage and flowers, are recommending it very 
highly to their clients. 
Owing to its general characteristics, it will blend 
well with all other species of the Rhododendrons and 
Azaleas. Growing, as it does, to a considerable 
height, and blooming some three or four weeks later 
than the more highly colored varieties of the Hybrid 
Rhododendron, it forms a splendid background for 
FOUR 
