Numbers of this family might be described as evergreen and gold;
for part of the perennial foliage shades off from the deepest
green to bright golden hues. Among the group of this variety,
Japanese in origin, Mr. Fuller showed me a "sporting" specimen,
which, from some obscure and remarkable impulse, appeared bent on
producing a new and distinct type. One of the branches was quite
different from all the others on the tree. It was pressed down and
layered in the soil beneath; when lo! a new tree was produced, set
out beside its parent, whom it soon surpassed in size, beauty, and
general vigor. Although still maintaining its green and golden
hues, it was so distinct that no one would dream that it was but a
"sport" from the adjacent dwarf and modest tree. Indeed, it
reminded one of Beatrix Esmond beside her gentle and retiring
mother. If it should not in the future emulate in caprice the fair
subject of comparison, it may eventually become one of the best-
known ornaments of our lawns. At present it appears nowise
inclined to hide its golden light under a bushel.
What I have said about forming the acquaintance of deciduous trees
and shrubs before planting to any great extent, applies with even
greater force to the evergreen, family. There is a large and
beautiful variety from which to choose, and I would suggest that
the choice be made chiefly from the dwarf-growing kinds, since the
space of one acre is too limited for much indulgence in.
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