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SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA
BT
W. W. ASHE
FORESTER
Jp
NORTH CAROLINA GEOLOGICAL AND
ECONOMIC SURVEY
JOSEPH HYDE PRATT, STATE GEOLOGIST
BULLETIN NO. 16
SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA
BY
W. W. 4SHE
FOBESTEB
RALEIGH
E. M. UzzELL & Co., State Pbintebs and Bi2n)ER8
1908
GEOLOGICAL BOARD
GovEBNOB R. B. Glenn, ex officio Chairman Raleigh.
Henby E. Fbieb Winston-Salem.
Fbank R. Hewitt Asheville.
Hugh MacRae .Wilmington.
Fbank Wood .Edenton.
Joseph Htde Pbatt, State Geologist Chapel Hill.
LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL
Chapel Hill, N. C, January 1, 1908.
To His Excellency, Hon. Robert B. Glenx,
Governor of North Carolina,
Sir. — I herewith have the honor to submit for publication as Bulletin
Xo. 16 of the reports of the North Carolina Geological and Economic
Survey a report on Shade Trees for North Carolina by W. W. Ashe. This
bulletin has been prepared especially for distribution in North Carolina.
Yours respectfully,
Joseph Hyde Pratt,
State Geologist,
CONTENTS
PAGE
Preface 13
Introduction 15
Time to Plant 16
Method of Planting 17
Sun Scald of Young Trees 20
Protection after Planting 22
Pruning 22
Time to Prune 22
Small Branchlets 22
Large Branches 28
Pruning for Shape 24
Pruning to Thicken Foliage 26
Pruning Large Crowns to Reduce their Size 26
Care of Newly Plantto Trees 28
General Suggestions for Street Planting 29
Shade Trees for North Carolina. 30
Ornamental Trees 81
Ornamental Trees having Showy Flowers 31
Autumn Foliage 82
Objectionable Trees 32
Arrangement of Trees on Streets 83
Arrangement of Plantings 85
Combinations of Trees 87
Tree Planting Along Roads 88
Walnuts 40
Black Walnut 40
English Walnut 40
Arbor Day 40
Descriptions of Trees Suitable for Planting 42
Hardy Catalpa 42
Umbrella Catalpa 48
Paulonia 48
Ashes 44
Green Ash : 44
Swamp Ash 44
White Ash and Biltmore Ash 45
SmalMeaved or Cork Elm 45
White Elm 46
Slippery Elm 46
Hackberry 46
CONTENTS.
FAOC
Hickories 47
Shagbark 47
Carolina Shagbark 48
Scalybark or Red Heart Hickory 48
Pecan /. 49
Black Walnut 49
Tulip Poplar 50
Cucumber Tree 51
Mountain Magnolia 51
Evergreen Magnolia 52
American Linden and White Linden 58
The European Silver Linden 53
Horse Chestnut 54
Buckeye 54
Maples 54
Norway Maple 54
Southern Maple 54
Sugar Maple 55
Red Maple 55
Silver Maple ^
Box Elder or Ash-leaved Maple 56
Dogwood 57
Black Gum 57
Sweet Gum ^'^
Locust or Yellow Locust 57
Redbud 58
Honey Locust ^^
Mimosa Tree 58
Kentucky Coffee Tree 59
Crape Myrtle 59
Evergreen Cherry or Mock Orange 59
China Tree ^^
Umbrella Tree ^
Yellowwood ^1
Chestnut ^1
Beech ^3
Hop Hornbeam 52
Oaks ^2
Live Oak 53
Laurel Oak 58
Water Oak 54
Willow Oak : 54
Shingle Oak 55
White Oak 55
Swamp Chestnut Oak 56
Red Oak 66
Scarlet Oak 57
Black Oak 67
CONTENTS. 9
PAOK
Spanish Oak 68
Pin Oak ttS
Ginkgo 68
Sycamore •. 69
Oriental Plane 69
Poplars .70
Lombardy Poplar 70
BoUe Poplar 70
Balsam Poplar 70
Necklace Poplar 71
Carolina Poplar 71
Golden Bark Willow 71
Trees suitable for very dry soils 73
Trees suitable for very wet soils 72
List of Publications 78
ILLUSTRATIONS
PLA.TE FACING PAGE
I. Gothic arches of elms. Four rows. Green Street, Augusta, Ga 15 *^
II. A, Toung tulip poplar, showing pyramidal shaped crown and un-
divided stem; B, Bad pruning and neglect. One-half of the
trunk Is dead from sun-scald. The crown Is filled with par-
tially dead stubs from which the bark has fallen, caused by bad
pruning. The swollen ring Just below the crown also shows
bad pruning when the stem was lengthened 20 ^
III. Forked elm split under weight of sleet. It can be drawn together
by a bolt in the position of the dotted line. Forks which show
the least split should at once be drawn close by a bolt 2*^
IV. A, Well-planted maple two years after being set out. A small speci-
men with good roots. Only slight crown pruning was re-
quired and growth began at once. Tree is boxed to protect
stem from sun-scald; B, Flattened crown of oak, the usual
shape assumed when heavily topped 26^
v. A, Water oak, the second year after planting. Such heavy topping
entirely alters the natural shape of the crown in many species
and retards growth several years; B, Stag-headed tree. The
trunk is too long for the size of the crown. The crown should
be lowered by pruning as indicated by lines. This tree is aiso
suffering from general neglect and requires the removal of
many dead limbs and sways, the filling of many cavities and
the removal from the stem of the lowest adventitious shoots. . 28 *^
VI. Typical elm vase-shaped crown formed of many ascending stems . . 4C "^
VII. A, Paulonla six years old, 20 feet high, globose crown. A very
rapidly growing tree with dense foliage and a tropical appear-
ance, but since it is short lived and becomes ragged in old age,
it Is not desirable for general use; B, Well developed sugar
maple in middle age. This shape is characteristic of trees
which have not been topped 54 ^
VIII. Southern maples showing ascending habit of trees planted close
together. In a few years every other tree should be removed
to give necessary growing space and to prevent deformities. . 56 v
IX. A finely developed chestnut tree in flower, one of the most desirable
of the large-sized shade trees for western North Carolina.
Courtesy of U. S. Forest Service 62 y^
X. Row of lombardy poplars with narrowly conical crowns and erect
branches. It can be efTectlvely used for a certain class of
planting, especially where It is desirable to secure a quick
shade, since the growth is extremely rapid 70 ^^
ILLUSTRATIONS. 11
FIGUSES PAGE
1. Correct way of removing a small branch A, or a large branch B. No
stub should be left : 23
2. Wrong way of cutting a small branch A, or a large branch B, where
a stub is left. Such stubs die and produce hollows 23
3. In pruning large branches, especially on trees which are past their
youth, and whose powers of sprouting from cut branches Is re-
duced, they should be pruned so as to leave a living branch grow-
ing from the end of the stub. This branch will usually maintain
sufficient growth in the stub to cause the healing of the wound
where the large branch was removed 24
4. Hollow snags should be cut close to the live branch from which they
spring, as at AB. If the hollow penetrates the live branch it
should either be filled with cement or with a wooden plug and
painted, after the snag is removed. 24
5. Since there is danger of large limbs splitting and tearing the bark
loose from the tree, it is preferable to cut them twice. AB
shows the position of the first cut, an undercut being first made
with a hatchet, the branch then sawed QfC from above. The stub
is then sawed ofC smoothly at CD as close as possible to the line
of sap fiow 25
6. Skeleton saw, pruning saw, with tapering frame, for use in narrow
space. For hand use 26
7. Pruning saw for heavy work 27
8. Pruning hook and saw. Can be used either with or without pole.
Saw blade Is quickly removed and the pole shears can be used
alone. Shears can also be secured without the saw 27
9. Adjustable pole pruning saw. Adapted for sawing by hand or at-
tached to a pole. The handle, which has a socket for use with
pole, is adjustable for convenience of using at different angles. •
Blade 18 inches long 27
10. Street 65 feet wide. Single row of trees in middle. Ornamental
trees can be alternated with standard shade trees 34
11. Street 60 feet wide. Single lateral row of trees on each side, either
standard shade trees; or standard shade trees alternating with
ornamental trees, or with broad leaf evergreen trees 34
12. Street 100 feet wide. Single lateral rows and single middle row.
Ornamental trees or ornamental trees alternating with the same
standard shade trees used on the lateral rows can be planted in
the middle row 34
13. Street 100 feet wide. Double lateral rows, the trees in the rows
arranged quincunxially or alternately 34
14. Alternate planting 84
15. Opposite planting 84
16. Street 125 feet wide. Two lateral rows of trees arranged alternately,
one row of standard shade trees, the other of ornamental trees. . 86
12 ILLUSTRATIONS.
FIGUBES PAGE
17. Street 150 feet wide. One lateral row on each side and two middle
rows. (Arrangement of Green street, Augusta, Ga. See Plate I.) 36
18. Street 150 feet wide. One lateral row of standard shade trees on
each side; three middle rows, the outer rows standard shade
trees, the middle row ornamental trees 36
PREFACE
In the following report on Shade Trees for North Carolina, it is the
desire of the Geological and Economic Survey to arouse within the State
a more thorough appreciation of the necessity and beauty of shade trees
on the streets of our cities and towns. To this end, descriptions are
given of the majority of the shade trees suitable for street and park
planting in different sections of the State and illustrations have been used
to show more effectively the advantages to be derived by a town or city
through the judicious planting of suitable trees on their streets. Many
towns now realize that shaded parks and streets bordered with neatly kept
rows of trees are an asset of very great value. In many instances where a
town is without such shade trees it has begun to plant them and the
present bulletin will be of considerable assistance to such towns in the
selection of the proper trees for planting, the suitable time of year to set
them out, and how to care for them and protect them from disease and
insects. Various combinations of trees that grow well together and har-
monize with each other are given and also suggestions regarding combina-
tions of trees to give pleasing effects of color in the spring when the trees
are flowering and in the fall when the foliage is turning. To the person
who is interested in tree planting for his own yard, the bulletin should
be of some considerable value inasmuch as it goes into detail in regard to
the transplanting and pruning of trees.
A short chapter is devoted to Arbor Day and it is hoped that the bul-
letin will be the means of promoting a more general observance of this
day in the State, especially in the public schools, which will thus incul-
cate in our school children a love for our trees, and as they grow up, they
will appreciate not only their beauty but also their real value to the place
in which they may happen to live. One of the customs of Arbor Day is
the planting of trees and if but a few trees are planted each year by each
school throughout the State, it will mean that a great many portions of
the State will in a few years show most strikingly the advantage of syste-
matic planting.
This report has been prepared by Mr. W. W. Ashe, Forester of the
Geological and Economic Survey, who is most competent to treat this
14 PBEFAOE.
subject. The Survey desires that any town or city or individual who
wishes information regarding their shade trees or assistance relating to
their care and protection will correspond with this office, as it is our
desire to render every assistance possible.
Joseph Hyde Pratt,
State Geologist.
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. l6. PLATE I
GOTHIC ARCHES OF ELMS. KOUR ROWS. GREEN STREET, Al^Cl'STA, GA.
SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
By W. W. Ashe.
INTRODUCTION.
Shade trees should be regarded as a necessity on the streets of the
cities and towns of North Carolina. They lessen the heat and glare of the
long hot summer days without checking the cooling southern breezes^ and
filter from the air a large portion of the dust which rises from the streets
and roads. Nor must their aesthetic qualities be overlooked. Towns
i4^,iayyMd>dU,fc^ii^ddyi^^ bordered with neatlv
ERRATA.
On page 30, line 16, octandra should read hippocaatanum.
On page 31, lines 11 and 14 of table, insert octandra after Aeaculua; in line
13, octandra should be hippoc<istanum.
On page 43, line 6, 20 should read 30; line 13, 15 should read 25.
On page 54, line 7, octandra should read hippocastanum.
be secured by their use. Only a few species thrive under the artificial
conditions which exist on paved streets. In most species such situations
are too unnatural, though they may be healthy trees and well suited for
unpaved streets as well as for roads and parks. In many localities the
existence of insect pests or destructive diseases prevent the use of what
might otherwise prove most desirable trees. Even when a species may
be able to grow on a paved street, other conditions may determine its
unfitness. For example, only forms with narrow crowns or ascending
branches, or small species, are adapted to narrow streets or when the
buildings impinge' closely upon the planting line.
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. l6. PLATE I
GOTHIC ARCHES OF F.LMS. FOUR ROWS. GREEN STRHET, AUCl'STA, GA.
SHADE TEEES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
By W. W. Ashe.
INTRODUCTION.
Shade trees should be regarded as a necessity on the streets of the
cities and towns of North Carolina. They lessen the heat and glare of the
long hot summer days without checking the cooling southern breezes^ and
filter from the air a large portion of the dust which rises from the streets
and roads. Nor must their aesthetic qualities be overlooked. Towns
fortunate enough to have shaded parks and streets bordered with neatly
kept rows of trees possess an intrinsic asset. Many towns in North Caro-
lina derive a large portion of their income from summer or winter visitors
and the street tree contributes not a little to producing the conditions
most agreeable to these guests.
It is very important to consider, in making a choice of a shade tree,
its adaptability to the conditions and fitness for the purposes for which it
is to be used. It is necessary to choose only those species which are
suited to the local soil and moisture conditions. This does not by any
means restrict the choice to local species. Some of the most desirable
species are introduced either from other parts of the United States or
from other countries. But, until a tree has been thoroughly tested by
trial and its capacities and limitations locally determined, it is preferable
to avoid its use as a street tree. The best success can generally be ob-
tained from some of the well known native species and, on account of
their great number, it is exceptional when most satisfactory results cannot
be secured by their use. Only a few species thrive under the artificial
conditions which exist on paved streets. In most species such situations
are too unnatural, though they may be healthy trees and well suited for
unpaved streets as well as for roads and parks. In many localities the
existence of insect pests or destructive diseases prevent the use of what
might otherwise prove most desirable trees. Even when a species may
be able to grow on a paved street, other conditions may determine its
unfitness. For example, only forms with narrow crowns or ascending
branches, or small species, are adapted to narrow streets or when the
buildings impinge" closely upon the planting line.
16 SHADE TREES FOE NORTH CAROLINA.
Species with greater spread of crown can be used to advantage only
when there is ample space for their development. Some species, while
admirably suited for formal avenues or use in parks or on estates, or
even for central planting in broad parking strips, are unsuited, on account
of their habit or exacting requirements, for general street or row use.
In one case, as along a macadam road, an early leafing and dense f oliaged
species may be desirable. Its shade will tend to preserve the moisture
in the road bed and thus maintain it. On an unpaved earth road or street
which tends to remain muddy, a thin foliaged species whose leafage
appears late will be more serviceable. Although evergreens are seldom
desirable on highways, their use may be found appropriate in certain
towns used as resorts where it is necessary to secure green foliage during
the winter.
Every condition which can in any way afifect a tree should be con-
sidered before it is accepted for extensive planting in any locality, or be-
fore it is used under a condition in which it has not already been pre-
viously given full trial and found satisfactory. Trees on streets, roads
and in parks and other public grounds are not of temporary interest.
They are largely planted for the future and, if judiciously selected,
rightly planted and carefully attended, their period of usefulness and
range of beauty may be prolonged throughout several generations. The
elms of New England, the maples and buckeyes of New York and the
Middle West, and the oaks of the South, which constitute the chief attrac-
tion of the streets of many of the small towns, are the product of several
decades and the men who planted them frequently failed to see them
attain their glorious perfection.
Native species, whose health, longevity and value have already been
tested and are fully known, are usually the best subjects for planting;
and it is likewise true that local-grown material, when nursery raised, is
usually more suitable than that from a distance. In all cases trees should
be accepted only from firms whose stock has recently been inspected by
authorities of their respective states for dangerous insects and destructive
diseases; and no consignment, even when shipped under the inspection
certificate, which shows traces of disease or is infested with injurious
insects, should ever be accepted.
TIME TO PLANT.
When the choice of a species has been made and its suitability for local
conditions determined, material for planting should be secured that it
may be ready for planting at the proper season. At the same time the
METHOD OF PLANTING. 17
holes should be properly placed and if the situation will permit, they
should be dug. It is not uncommon to see a large proportion of nicely
shaped and apparently thrifty young trees die the first season after
planting either because the planting was not properly done or was made
at an unfavorable season. Throughout North Carolina early spring is
the time when successful planting is most assured. Fall planting is ex-
tensively advocated in the north, but the conditions in the southeast are
not at all favorable for rooting at this season. Not only is the weather so
warm and dry during the autumn that the roots are likely to dry while
material is in transit, but the low rainfall period which terminates the
long, warm, dessicating summer and autumn, leaves the soil too deficient
in moisture to assure a renewal of root growth before winter, even though
the specimens are well watered when set out.
Planting can begin, however, very early in the spring, the opening of
the maple buds usually marking the beginning of the planting season.
Its earliness varies in different portions of the State (if the unfolding
of the maple buds is taken as the index) from the last of February in the
southeastern portion of the State to the middle of March in the higher
mountains. Planting can be continued until the leaves are nearly grown,
but further delay lessens the chance of success. A few species are exa».t-
ing in regard to the time at which they must be planted. Most of the
deciduous, broad-leafed trees — oaks, elms, lindens, maples, and true pop-
lars, and others which have numerous fine, fibrous roots — can be planted
at any time during the spring with every assurance of success. A few
species, however, are more exacting. The magnolias, including the
cucumber tree, large-leaved magnolias, as well as the evergreen species
and the closely related yellow poplar or tulip tree, require transplanting
very late in the spring, just at the time when the buds are beginning to
open. These trees are deficient in fibrous roots, most of their roots being
thick and fleshy. Unless moved just at the time when root growth is
taking place, success is doubtful. The black gum also requires to be
handled in late spring; and all evergreens, both broad-leafed species like
the holly, bays, mock orange, and evergreen oaks, as well as the conif-
erous evergreens, the pines, cedars and firs, are best moved late in the
spring just before the period of active growth begins.
METHOD OF PLANTING.
Holes for planting should be prepared in advance of the proposed
planting time so that when the season is favorable there will be no cause
for delay. More or less care is required in the preparation of the holes
according to the natural fertility of the soil and its adaptability to tree
18 SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
growth. The more unfavorable the conditions and the poorer the soil
the greater care should be taken in its preparation. For park and estate
planting, where the roots of the tree have ample room for spreading, a
hole 3 feet square and 2 feet deep is ample for small trees. If the soil is
naturally of only fair quality, the top layer should be placed in a separate
pile from the raw subsoil, and should be well mixed with leaf mold, if
such is available, and placed in the bottom of the hole as a bed on which
to place the tree. A portion of the subsoil should also be mixed with
leaf mold, or, if this is not available, well decomposed manure, or litter,
can be substituted, and used for filling the hole about the newly planted
tree. A tree planted in such a manner will make rapid and sustained
growth, and while under the best conditions such care and expense are not
necessary, the excellent health of the specimen will usually compensate
for the additional cost. As the conditions for tree growth become less
propitious, as along the paved streets of towns where the soil moisture is
frequently insufficient, the greatest care must be exercised if healthy,
vigorous specimens are to be obtained. On paved streets, where it is de-
sired to secure ultimately large specimens, the planting hole can well be
made even larger than 3 by 3 feet, either by iucreasing the width on all
sides or extending one side so as to have the greatest length paralleling
the curbing. The earth in all such cases, unless naturally very fertile,
should have well decayed leaf mold or litter added to it in the proportion
of about one-third.
The most essential requirement for the healthy growth of trees, so far
as the roots are concerned, is a uniform, though not excessive supply of
soil moisture. Some soils, on accoimt of their situation or character,
are naturally more subject to drying than others. The addition of the
well rotted leaf mold to such soils not only adds a store of easily available
plant food, but greatly increases their water-carrying capacity, enabling
them to store large quantities of rain water for the future needs of the
tree. At the same time, soils which are wet are apt to be sour, especially
when heavy clays, and this condition is fully as unfavorable for healthy
growth as when there is a deficiency in the moisture supply. Such sour
soils are usually compact clays and it is often difficult to properly under-
drain them. Slow and unhealthy growth and small yellowish foliage
are an excellent indication of a soil^s being sour, if it is wet. The addi-
tion of a small amount of lime to the soil is a temporary corrective,
although drainage is necessary for permanency. Pin oak, willow oak, red
maple, black gum and sweet gum are more suitable for sour soils than
other species. White oak, red oak, black oak, sugar maple, linden, yellow
poplar and cucumber are intolerant of such conditions. The addition of
METHOD OF PLANTING. 19
woods litter facilitates the drainage of such a sour soil. The hole, how-
ever, under such conditions, should be several inches deeper than would
be required in a lighter and more porous earth.
Specimens should also receive careful attention previous to planting.
When shipped from a distant nursery, they should be unbundled, and if
a long period, as of several weeks, is to elapse before planting, they
should be heeled in. This is done by digging a trench one side of which
is very sloping, and the depth of which is from 18 inches to 2 feet, accord-
ing to the size of the trees. The specimens should be distributed along
this trench on the sloping side, the roots spread, the trench re-filled and
the earth firmly packed. If a suitable, cool shady place is selected, as on
the north side of a building, or at the base of a north sloping hill for heel-
ing in, leafing can be deferred for several weeks after the normal time for
opening. When it is necessary to keep specimens for only a few days be-
fore planting, they can safely be placed in any cool, shady place — ^a cellar
being an excellent place. Care should be taken, if the weather is warm,
to lessen the danger of the roots heating by opening the bagging or straw
in which they are wrapped. On the other hand, if the weather is cold,
precautions must be taken to prevent the roots from freezing and becom-
ing dry. They will seldom freeze in a deep, well-walled cellar, or they
can be covered with straw. When planting time comes the roots of the
trees which are unpacked, or taken from the hccling-in trench, should be
puddled by dipping in a thick mud until well coated. During windy or
warm weather the roots should be given additional protection, after un-
packing for planting, by covering with sacking and having an occasional
bucket of water thrown over them. The better the condition of the roots
when the tree is planted and the larger the number of live fibrous roots
the greater is the probability of rapid growth.
In the selection of specimens only those should be chosen which have
reasonably straight stems and well-formed crowns. The larger the speci-
men, the better developed and more shapely should be the stem and
crown. Crooks in the stems of very small trees are soon out-grown,
while pruning soon corrects juvenile deformities of the crown. Such
defects are more slowly corrected in larger specimens. It is also necessary
to see that the roots of specimens are in good order. Before planting
these should be pruned with a sharp knife and the broken roots removed.
Very large scars of this kind, or large root wounds, especially in species
with thin sapwood, where the heart is exposed, should be well painted
with either a coal tar or a thick linseed oil paint. This will lessen root
rots which frequently ascend and result in hollow stems. The crown and
stem should also be pruned at the time of planting. It is necessary, in the
20 SHADE TREES FOB NORTH CAROLINA.
first place, to reduce the size of the crown to compensate for the reduced
root surface. This is far more necessary in forest-grown specimens, the
roots of which are frequently hadly mutilated in lifting than in nursery-
grown stock, the roots of which are more compact and better provided
with fibrous rootlets. The severity of pruning required varies with tlie
species. Easily rooting species, like willows, true poplars, elms, and
maples, usually require, if nursery-grown stock, only a slight reduction
in the crown surface; while those species that root more slowly, as the
oaks, magnolias, yellow poplar, cucumber, hickories and walnuts, require
considerable crown-pruning.
Crown-pruning, no matter how severe, should, in general conform to
the shape the tree is to assume. Species which form deliquescent stems
like those of the elm or maple (see PI. IV, A) can be topped, but the top-
ping should take place at the height at which it is desired to form the
base of the crown. Species which do not produce deliquescent stems, but
whose growth is excurrent, consisting of a central shaft from which subor-
dinate branches spring, like that of the yellow poplar (PI. II, A), should
generally not be topped at all. Topping of such species as these is likely
to result in the formation of several stems or a forked stem and irregu-
larity of shape. It is a better practice to confine the pruning of trees of
this class to the removal or partial removal of lateral branches and not to
cut back the main leader at all. The base of the crown is determined in
trees of this class subsequent to planting, by the removal of the lower
branches. See also PI. V, A.
It is usually preferable to plant small trees from i to 1 inch thick, at
the height of a man's shoulder, and from 6 to 8 feet in height The cost
of handling trees of this size is much less than that of larger stock; they
can usually be removed with far better roots than larger trees; and on
account of their more rapid growth, they frequently outgrow larger
trees whose roots are not so well preserved.
8UN 8CALD OP YOUNG TREES.
Small trees whose stems have been shaded, as those from very close nur-
sery rows, and forest-pulled specimens, especially of the sun-tender spe-
cies with their smooth bark, are subject to sun scald. This results from
the killing of the cambium or inner bark on the southern or southwestern
side of the tree by the heat of summer and autumn suns. The first indi-
cation of sun scald is the cracking of the bark in vertical, and then in
cross seams, as it becomes dry and brittle. In the later stages it fre-
quently peels oflE or curls up in long strips, exposing the sapwood, which
N. r. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. l6. PLATE II
> s
METHOD OP PLANTING. 21
soon dries and seems dead. The blisters from sun scald frequently extend
from near the ground to well within the crown of the tree, and in the
worst cases a scar is left covering the entire southern half of the stem,
there being no living wood within the scar (PI. II, B). Sometimes in
very small, rapidly growing trees these long scars, will heal over by
growth from the edges of the bark surrounding the wound. More fre-
quently they never heal, buit sapwood decays on the scar and a hollow
forms in the trunk of the tree.
The species most subject to sun scald are those with thin, smooth bark,
especially those which naturally grow in dense, shady woods, as maple,
beech, linden, tulip poplar, and some of the magnolias; while the oaks,
elms, and ashes are seldom affected. As trees, even of the tenderest
species, become older and the bark becomes rough, they lose their sensi-
tiveness and no longer sun scald. Small trees of tender species, unless
they have been hardened by being grown in open nursery rows, require
a shade protection on the southern sides. When a guard of wooden slats
is used, that is sufficient. When no slat guard is used, a cheap triangular
shade guard can be made of one solid, vertical board, which is placed to
the south side of the *tree. A few rows of horizontal slats form the two
other sides, being nailed where they meet to a vertical post (PI. IV, A).
This guard should be anchored securely by means of stakes driven deeply
in the ground, to which it is nailed. The tree, ae has been explained,
should be fastened to it by leather or cloth bands across the top to pre-
vent rubbing. A guard of this kind is preferable to wrapping the stem
with straw or sacking.
Wounds resulting from sun scald should be treated like other wounds.
The loose and diseased portions of bark, under which the inner bark has
darkened or discolored, should be cut away until healthy tissue is exposed
around the entire wound. The surface of the exposed wood and the edge
of the living bark should be well covered with a linseed oil paint and the
stem of the i ee suitably shaded to prevent further extension of the
injury. In case further blistering takes place the dead bark should again
be cut away. Such a wound, though large, will, if carefxdly managed,
heal on a small tree.
Suckers frequently appear from the base of trees which have been badly
sun blistered. They should be removed at once. Sometimes, following
very heavy pruning, which admits direct sun-light, sun scald takes place
on the upper part of the trunk which, has been exposed. Such wounds
should be cared for as suggested, and heavy crown pruning subsequently
avoided for such species.
22 SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
PROTECTION APTER PLANTING.
Small trees along streets and roads should be protected by a guard of
some kind, either like that described for protecting from sun scald or
similar to one of those described below. Trees eight inches or more in
diameter which are too large to box and yet require protection from bit-
ing or rubbing of animals or mutilation of other kinds can be protected by
wrapping about the lower part of the stem a piece of small mesh galvan-
ized wire netting. The netting should be 6 feet or more wide, the lower
selvage dropping to within a few inches of the ground. The raw edges
should lap several inches, permitting loosening and readjusting with the
growth of the tree. The netting should hang loosely from short wires
fastened to staples driven into the trunk a few inches above the upper
selvage. More ornamental guards made of wrought iron can be pur-
chased. They are only suitable for small trees and are no more service-
able than those made of wood. A four-sided box 5 or 6 feet high and
several inches larger at the base than at the top, made of narrow vertical
slats, is not only a cheap but a durable and satisfactory guard. All
guards and the bands fastening them to the trees should be examined at
frequent intervals, especially after heavy storms to prevent the bark being
seriously rubbed or cut by them. Deep abrasions from rubbing not only
cause permanent disfigurement but often greatly impair the health of the
specimens. Hitching rings or sign boards should not be fastened to
trees nor should light, power or telephone companies be permitted to
anchor poles to them by girdling them with wire.
PKUNING.
Time to Prune, — Small branchlets of broad-leaf trees can be removed
at any season of the year. The bark on such branchlets is growing
rapidly and the wound will usually heal during the following spring.
Large, live branches, whether cut close to the stem or partially re-
moved by cutting at some distance from it, shoxdd only be pruned during
late autumn, winter or early in spring before the sap is active.
Smail Branchleis are removed or pruned with a knife, shears, tree
pruner or sometimes with a saw (figs. 6, 7, 8 and 9). The cut should be
clean and smooth and made without tearing the bark loose from the wood
below the cut. When a branch is removed from the stem, no matter how
small the branch is, the cut should be as close as possible to the bark of
the stem (figs. 1 and 2). Very small branches in the crown, which are
merely cut back in pruning for shape or to secure thicker foliage, can be
cut at any convenient point, but larger branches should be cut only at the
point where they leave the stem or another branch.
Fio. 7.
Fig. 8.
Fig. 9.
Fig. 7. — Pruning saw for heavy work.
Fig. 8. — Pruning hook and saw. Can be used either with or without pole. Saw
blade Is quickly removed and the pole shears can be used alone. Shears can also t>e
secured without the saw.
Fig. 9. — Adjustable pole pruning saw. Adapted for sawing by hand or attached to
a pole. The handle, which has a socket for use with pole, is adjustable for convenience
of using at different angles. Blade 18 inches long.
28 SHADE TEEES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
naturally broadens considerably with age with most species which have
deliquescent stems. After the height growth is made, the vitality of the
tree is expended in extending the lateral branches, changing the shape of
the crown from oval or conical in early youth to broadly oval in middle
age and dome-shaped in old age. For this reason in mature trees which
are not over high more lateral trimming is usually advisable than trim-
ming in the apex of the crown.
Trees whose boles are unduly long in proportion to the crown should be
topped. The topping, accompanied with a small amount of lateral lop-
ping, will frequently force the development of shoots on the upper part
of the bole from dormant buds. It is advisable to permit the growth of
these shoots since they assist in lowering the center of gravity, trees of
this kind being tbp heavy and likely to wind fall. Many of the old oaks
and hickories forming parts of groves on public grounds, parks, etc.,
which were originally forest trees, are of this class, being tall and having
the boles too long in proportion to the length of the crown, which, more-
over, are very wide-spread (PL V, B). As their comrades have died, they
have been left isolated and unprotected from the wind, while their tall
stems and large crowns make them liable to windfall, which has still
further thinned them. On account of the freer entrance of wind and sun
the ground becomes very dry and the tree begins dying in the upper part
of the crown. When the soil of such a grove has become decidedly defi-
cient in humus, either from the burning of the leaves and grass annually
or because the leaves are removed, cultivation for several years and the
plowing under of one or two crops of cow peas, or clover will be of great
benefit in re-establishing the conditions necessary for healthy growth.
In figs. 6, 7, 8 and 9 are illustrated various tools that can be used to ad-
vantage in pruning different trees.
CAEB OP NEWLY PLANTED TEEES.
For some weeks newly planted trees should be watered regularly, if
the soil is very dry, and subsequently if droughts occur during the sum-
mer and autumn of the first season. Usually trees will be well rooted by
the end of the first growing season so that watering will seldom be re-
quired in subsequent seasons. The earth around the tree should be cul-
tivated once or twice a season for several years to assist in the preservation
of soil moisture and to add to the permeability of the soil so that all of
the rainfall will be absorbed. Mulching with straw or grass cut from
lawns will also tend to maintain the soil moisture. Yoimg trees, however,
should not be mulched with manure for the first few years at least and,
if the soil has been properly prepared, they will not require it.
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. l6. PLATE V
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PRUNING.
23
Large Branches. — In removing large branches entirely, the cut should
be made just as close to the stem as possible, even cutting through some
of the bark of the stem in making it. No limb should ever be cut in such
a manner as to leave any neck, snag, stump or projection of any kind
beyond the trunk of the tree. Large limbs which are only partially re-
moved should be pruned back to a sound, vigorous branchlet which
springs from it (fig. 3). Descarts has well called the branchlet which is
left the sap lifter. It must be sufficiently large to maintain activity in
the cambium between M and N, (fig. 3). This insures the early forma-
tion of a callus where the cut A-B was made, and the occlusion of the
wound. If this sap lifter is not left, the cambium on the stub M-N dies.
Fig. 1. Fio. 2.
Fio. 1. — Correct way of removing a small branch A, or a large branch B. No stub
should be left.
Fio. 2. — Wrong way of cutting a small branch A, or large branch B, where a stub is
left. Such stubs die and produce hollows.
either entirely or back a considerable distance from its extremity, on ac-
count of the lack of circulation of sap through it. A callus then begins to
form as a collar around or near the base of the projecting stub and grad-
ually extends up the stub, sometimes, if the stub decays rapidly, com-
pletely healing over at the end but more frequently failing to close on
account of the incurving of the callus into the hollow as it deepens
(fig. 4). When this occurs, an opening remains at the end of the callus,
forming a hollow, as shown in the right hand tree in the frontispiece, in
which water collects, accelerating the decay already taking place in the
wood of the stub, and gradually extending the decay of the heartwood of
the tree below the hollow and to a slight distance above it. There is a
24
SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
limit to the distance such a callus will grow^ as circulation of sap must be
maintained through it. After extending a certain distance beyond the
direct line of sap flow^ its growth becomes slow and finally almost ceases^
being just sufficient to maintain a thin tissue of live inner bark on the
callus. In willows and in those trees which form pollards^ even large
branches can be cut and sprouts will grow from the end of the stub, which
will soon heal over. Other trees when young, among them the cork, elm
and hackberry, can be pollarded to some extent.
All exposed wood of a wound more than an inch in diameter should be
painted with coal tar. Since there is danger of large branches splitting
and tearing the bark lose below the cut^ it is better to cut them twice as
shown in fig. 5. An undercut made with a hatchet or ax lessens the
possibility of the bark being torn loose.
Fig. 3.
Fig. 4.
Fio. 3. — In pruning large branches, especially on trees which are past their youth,
and whose powers of sprouting from cut branches is reduced, they should be pruned
so as to leave a Hying branch growing from the end of the stub. This branch will
usually maintain sufficient growth in the stub to cause the healing of the wound where
the large branch was removed.
Fig. 4. — Hollow snags should be cut close to the live branch from which they spring,
as at AB. If the hollow penetrates the live branch it should either be filled with cement
or with a wooden plug and painted, after the snag is removed.
PRUNING FOR SHAPE.
The crowns of newly planted trees frequently assume irregular shapes
after a year or two of growth. Such irregularities are to be corrected by
pnming the crown several years after permanent planting, when it is
possible to determine what shape is being formed. After pruning to
shape, the crown should be subsequently examined at intervals of three
or four years and tendencies towards irregularity remedied, when they
consist either in the prolongation or overgrowth of one or two branches,
or in the formation of a shape diflEerent from that of other trees in the
same line. All trees in the same line should have the same shape, or
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. 1 6. PLATE III
FORKED ELM SPLIT UNDER WEIGHT OF SLEET. IT CAN BE DRAWN TOGETHER BY
A BOLT IN THE POSITION OF THE DOTTED LINE. FORKS WHICH SHOW THE LEAST
SPLIT SHOULD AT ONCE BE DRAWN CLOSE BY A BOLT.
PBUNINQ.
25
approximately so; fastigiate and round crown of the same species should
not be intermixed.
Forked stems are to be avoided in all trees and especially in elms, which
are likely to split in large forks (PL III). This is remedied by pruning
at the time the tree is planted and within a few years thereafter. A mush-
room shape which water oaks especially (PL IV, B) tend to assume when
planted as large-topped poles is equally as undesirable. This is altered
by cutting back the upper horizontal branches so as to force the formation
of a leader. In such a case the leader should either spring from the
stem or very close to it and should not be permitted to develop from a
horizontal branch at a considerable distance from the stem. Feathered
stems which elms and other trees also occasionally form are not de-
J
Fio. 5.
Fio. 5. — Since there la danger of large limbs splitting and tearing the hark loose from
the tree, it Is preferable to cut them twice. AB shows the position of the first cut, an
undercut being first made with a hatchet, the branch then sawn off from above. The
stub is then sawn off smoothly at OD as close as possible to the line of sap flow.
sirable. They are remedied by removing quite a number of the feather
branchlets with light topping at the same time in order to force a
stronger growth in the remaining lateral branches. The development of
more than one leader in trees which form a pyramidal crown should be
checked by cutting out all except the most vigorous and best-shaped leader.
On the other hand, in elms, lindens, ashes and maples, it is desirable to
secure a great number of well spaced ascending branches and no single
leader.
The tendency to form irregularities in shape is checked by clipping
small branchlets or twigs while the aberration is yet insignificant. By
clipping those whose development is not desired, the growth of the others
26 SHADE TBEES FOB NORTH CAROLINA.
is strengthened and their size increased. In this way it is possible, with-
out ever removing any large branch, not only to secure perfect symmetry
of crown but to direct the crown into almost any shape desired. Pole
shears or clippers (tree pruners) are most convenient for this purpose (see
fig. 8). The length of the stem should be secured early by removing the
lowest branches. Large branches which would subsequently require re-
moval on account of being too low on the stem should not be permitted to
develop. They are more quickly removed when email; and swellings are
less likely to result in healing.
PRUNING TO THICKEN FOLIAGE.
This is done by clipping the ends of the larger lateral branchlets as well
as the leader. This checks the increase of the crown in size, both in
height and in diameter, and stimulates the growth of interior branchlets
with consequent denser leaf cover. While this is especially advisable with
evergreen broad-leaf trees, it is also occasionally necessary with deciduous
Fig. 6.
FiQ. 6. — Skeleton saw, pruning saw, with tapering frame, for use In narrow spaces.
For hand use.
species which have made rapid growth, forming lank stems and long in-
ternodes. Poplars, tulips, and sycamores, as well as other deciduous
trees, are frequently much benefitted by having their foliage thus thick-
ened, as well as hollies, evergreen magnolia, evergreen cherry, etc. This
is also true of the broad-leaf conifer, ginkgo, which is inclined to form an
open crown. Few of the other conifers are open to such treatment. It
cannot be done in the pines, or larches, or cedrus, but in firs, hemlocks,
spruce and retinosporia, the foliage can be thickened by clipping one-half
of the season^s growth in early summer immediately after the spring
growth has been made. Libocedrus and the native cedars and arbor-
vitaes can be clipped but not beyond the green spray.
PRUNING LARGE CROWNS TO REDUCE THEIR SIZE.
When this is done and it is desired to preserve the natural shape of the
crown, both lateral and ascending branches should be equally shortened.
The crown is broadened by heavy topping and narrowed by cutting back
lateral branches. It is to be remembered that the shape of the crown
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. 1 6. PLATE IV
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GENBRA.L SUGGESTIONS FOB STREET PLANTING. 29
Slender trees, especially evergreens, should be firmly tied by means of
leather thongs to stakes deeply driven into the ground. If it is necessary
to protect the tree from animals or there is danger from sun scald, the tree
should be boxed as is described on page 21. The necessary pruning of the
tree should be done before it is planted. It should be examined several
times during the first season to determine whether the specimen is suffer-
ing from drought, whether the stake support or guard is secure, whether
there is rubbing of the fastenings, and whether there are present any
insects like scales, which are very injurious. The subsequent health and
vigor of the tree will amply repay such care bestowed upon it for the first
few years after planting.
GENEEAL SUGGESTIONS FOR STREET PLANTING.
In selecting trees for street planting the following points should be
considered :
Width of walks and width of street.
Size of tree and shape of crown.
Ability to stand pruning where the tree cannot be permitted to attain
full size.
- Age the tree attains imder the local conditions.
Freedom from disease; objectionable insects; fruit, either large or
stony or attractive to .birds; dropping of twigs; objectionable odors.
Suitability of tree to the local conditions of
Drainage or water supply.
Depth and quality of soil.
Available root area, space and shape of root system,
Smoke and chemical gasses from reduction plants, fertilizer fac-
tories, etc.
Date of leafing, of defoliation and winter habit.
Ornamental characters, flowers, color of autumn foliage.
The following trees are selected as being the most desirable for general
street planting in towns and cities of North Carolina. When a tree is
suited for only one or two sections of the State, the section or sections for
which it is adapted are indicated by E. for eastern, M. for middle, and W.
for the western portion; otherwise it may be considered as adapted to any
part of the State. Trees having very large nuts, pulpy or juicy fruit or
very objectionable qualities, have been excluded from this list, but will
be found in the general list of shade trees. On account of the superiority
of the trees in this list over other trees suitable for planting in this
State, they will be referred to as standard shade trees.
30 SHADE TEBES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
STANDAED SHADE TEEES FOE NOETH CAEOLINA.
COMMON NAME. BOTANICAL NAME. DESCRIBED
ON PAGE.
Ashes.
Biltmore ash W Fraxinus hiltmoreana 45
Green ash Af. E Fraxinus lanceolata 44
White ash W Fraxinus americana 45
Swamp sush E Fraxinus profunda 44
Box elder Acer negundo 56
Chestnut Castanea dentata 61
Elms.
Cork or small leaf elm M, E... Ulmus alata 45
White elm Ulmus americana 46
Ginkgo Oingko hilaha 68
Golden bark willow. Salix alha viteUina 71
Hackberry E Celtis mississippiensis 46
Hop hornbeam Carpinus caroHniana 63
Horse chestnut Aesculu^ octandra 54
Kentucky coffee tree Oymnocladus dioica 59
Lindens.
European silver linden Tilia argentea 58
.Native lindens If. W THia 53
Maples.
Norway maple Acer platanoides 54
Red maple Acer rubrum 55
Silver maple Acer saccharinum 56
Southern maple E. M .Acer floridanum 54
Sugar maple Acer saccTiarum 55
Oaks.
Black oak Quercus velutina 67
Laurel oak E, W Quercus laurifolia 63
Live oak E Quercus virginiana 68
Pin oak W Quercus palu^tris 68
Red oak W Quercus rubra 66
Scarlet oak M, W Quercus coccinea 67
Shingle oak W Quercus imbricaria 66
Southern red oak or
Spanish oak M, E
Swamp chestnut oak Quercus michauxii 66
Water oak M. E Quercus nigra 64
White oak Quercus alba J65
Willow oak M. E Quercus phellos 64
Oriental plane Platanus orientalis 69
Paulonia Paulonia imperialis '48
Poplars.
Bolle poplar Populus alba bolleana 70
Carolina poplar E Populus deltoides 71
Lombardy poplar Populus nigra italica 70
Necklace poplar Populus monilifera 71
fQu^rcu^ digitata 68
ORNAMENTAL TREES. 31
DESCRIBED
COMMON NAME. BOTANICAL NAME. !>« „ wTT
ON PAGE.
Sweet gum E Liquidamhar 67
Sycamore Platanus occidentalis 69
Umbrella tree M. E Melia azedarach umbraculifera 60
Yellow locust M. W RoHnia paeudacacia 57
Yellow or tulip poplar W Liriodendron tuHpifera 50
Yellowwood W. Cladrastia lutea 61
Of this number the foUowmg are adapted for planting only on very
wide streets, on parking strips or along avenues, and are not recommended
for general sidewalk planting on account of their large size, and spreading
crowns, unless it is expected to trim them to keep them in bounds : white
oak, live oak, red oak, black oak, swamp chestnut oak, southern red oak
(Spanish oak), tulip poplar, sycamore, oriental plane, sweet gum.
ORNAMENTAL TREES.
Partly in addition to the above, there are a number of species having
showy flowers, some of which admit of use alone as standard shade trees
as indicated by being included in the above list; most of them, however,
are not well suited for use alone, but are preferably used in alternation
with standard shade trees, or for centre planting.
OENAMENTAL TKEES HAVING SHOWY FLOWERS.
COMMON NAME. BOTANICAL NAME. COLOR OF FLOWER.
Lindens Tilia ^. .White or
light colored.
Kentucky coffee tree Oymnocladus dioica "
Yellow locust Robinia pseudacacia "
Yellowwood Cladrastis lulea "
Catalpa (hardy) Catalpa speciosa "
Magnolia (evergreen) Magnolia foetida "
Cucumber tree Magnolia acuminata "
Mountain magnolia Magnolia fraseri "
Crape myrtle (white) Lagerstroemia indica "
Sourwood Oxydendrum arboreum "
Buckeye (white) Aesculus "
Rowan tree Pyrus americana "
Horse chestnut Aesculus octandra Red or pink.
Buckeye (red) Aesculus "
Mimosa Albizzia julibrissin "
Evergreen cherry Prunus caroUniana "
Redbud Cercis canadensis "
Crabapple Pyrus coronaria "
Crape myrtle (red) Lagerstroemia indica "
Paulonia Paulonia imperialis Lilac or purple.
China tree Melia azedarach "
32 SHADE XaEES FOB NORTH OABOLINA.
Several of these have large, fleshy fruit and can only be used on central
parking strips or where they would not overhang pavements.
AUTUMN FOLIAGE.
In addition to the flowers, the foliage of many species assumes in
autumn bright hues which renders it attractive. While in individual spec-
imens there is occasionally deviation from the usual colors, the following
list shows the common autumn coloring :
Color of Autumn Foliage of Trees.
COMMON NAME. BOTANICAL NAME. COLOB OF FOLIAOB.
Maples Acer Shades of red
and yellow.
White oak Quercus alha Shades of red.
Red oak Quercus rubra "
Swamp chestnut oak Quercus michauxii "
Dogwood Comus fiorida "
Tulip poplar; tulip tree Liriodendron tulipifera Shades of yellow.
Black oak Quercus velutina "
Lindens Tilia
Ashes Fraxinus "
Poplars Populus "
Hickories Hiooria "
Chestnut Castanea dentata "
Hop hornbeam Carpinus oaroliniana "
Scarlet oak Quercus coccinea Tones of crimson.
Sweet gum Liquidamhar "
Black gum Nyssa sylvatioa "
Pin oak Quercits palustris "
Elms Ulmus Dull yellow
or brown.
Willow oak Quercus phellos "
Sycamore and plane tree Platanus "
River birch Betula niffra "
OBJECTIONABLE TEEES.
The Otaheite or paper mulberry is a very objectionable tree, as it is
small, short-lived, late in leafing and suckers badly. The cultivation of
the Ailanthus has been tried in several towns and it has been found unsat-
isfactory, both on account of the odor of the flowers of the male or stami-
nate plants, and the abundance of its suckers. Gatalpa is objectionable
in localities where attacked by caterpillars. Tilia europea (T. parvi-
folia, etc.) is too sriiall and short-lived.
ARRANGEMENT OF TREES ON STREETS. 33
AERAifGEMENT OF TREES ON STREETS.
Streets of ordinary width, from 60 to 90 feet, are usually best treated by
the planting of a single row of trees down each side of the street on the
outer edge of the sidewalk (fig. 11). Occasionally there are difficulties in
the way of successfully placing even small trees on the sidewalks of streets
narrower than 60 feet, as when the buildings are several stories high and
erected on the property line. In such a case an arrangement with a single
middle row like that in fig. 10 might be advisable, especially on streets
running east and west, where the trees planted on the south side of the
street would be very largely cut oflE from sunlight, while those planted on
the north side would be bent towards the street. In some portions of the
streets of Southport there is a single row of live oaks down the middle of
the street.
Very wide streets often admit of more elaborate planting than a row of
trees down each walk. A satisfactory way to treat a street 100 feet wide
is a row on each sidewalk and a row on a narrow planting strip down the
middle of the street (figs. 12, 13, 14 and 16). The principal streets of
Cohmibia, S. C, are planted in this manner. The trees in the middle
strip can either be standard shade trees of the same kind as the lateral
rows or ornamental trees or standard trees alternating with ornamental
Streets from 120 to 150 feet can have the plantings arranged in several
different ways. There can be a double row down each of the sidewalks
which can be very broad, the row next to the property line being of
a standard shade tree and the row next to the driveway being either of the
same species or an ornamental tree.
Another arrangement for a street of such width is one row down each
sidewalk with a parking strip down*the middle of the street with a double
row of trees and a walk in the parking strip. Such an arrangement on a
wide street gives a very handsome effect, as is shown in the frontispiece,
a view of Green Street, Augusta, Ga. A yet wider street or one in which
there is no need for such wide driveways can have a lateral row on each
sidewalk and three or even four rows down a central parking strip, the
central rows being standard shade trees of some size and dignity and the
lateral rows carefully selected ornamental trees (figs. 16, 17 and 18).
Drives along streams or water fronts can also, when of some width, be
planted in double or triple rows.
In each case a tree should be selected with due consideration for the
width of the street and the distance between the houses and the planting
line.
Fia. 12.
Fia. 13.
Fig. 14. Fig. 16.
Fig. 10. — Street 65 feet wide. Single row of trees in middle. Ornamental trees can
be alternated with standard shade trees.
Fig. 11. — Street 60 feet wide. Single lateral row of trees on each side, either standard
shade trees; or standard shade trees alternating with ornamental trees, or with broad
leaf evergreen trees.
Fig. 12. — Street 100 feet wide. Single lateral rows and single middle row. Orna-
mental trees ; or ornamental trees alternating with the same standard shade trees used
on the lateral rows can be planted in the middle row.
Fig. 13. — Street 100 feet wide. Double lateral rows, the trees in the rows arranged
quincunzially or alternately.
Fig. 14. — Opposite planting.
Fig. 16. — Alternate planting.
ABRANGEMENT OF TREES ON STREETS. 35
Trees can be planted, when in double rows, either opposite each other
or alternate in the rows. Alternate planting is better adapted for double
rows on narrow planting strips since it permits the crowns to interlock in
place of interfering.
ARRANGEMENTS OF PLANTINGS.
The usual practice of planting at one time the entire length of a
street with the same species, all specimens of which are expected to reach
maturity together, has some disadvantages. For a long period it is true
the effect of the continuous uniform rows is faultless. The trees reach
maturity about the same time, but they begin to decline irregularly, and
each specimen is cut as it becomes necessary and a replant made. In this
manner replanting extends over many years, and even though the same
species be used for filling blanks, the original regularity will seldom
again be attained.
When some formality is desired, it is best to make an original planting
of two species, one selected for a permanent tree and the other a short-
lived, quickly growing tree planted alternately with the permanent spe-
cies. The temporary tree will soon furnish shade and give some character
to the street. When it reaches maturity or at the end of a fixed period,
all specimens of this temporary species can be removed, and specimens of
the permanent tree planted in their place. This will give two sets of trees
of the same kind, differing in age by a fixed period. The younger series
will be in its maturity when the older series is declining. The older series
can then be entirely cut and replaced without affecting the continuity of
the tree line or seriously impairing the shade.
By initiating and strictly adhering to such a plan, the species could at
any two cutting periods be entirely changed, if found advisable, and that
without interfering with the appearance of the trees or with the shade.
The distance from the trees to the property line should be the same
throughout the length of the street, unless the width of the walk changes.
The spacing should be the same between all trees of the same kind so far
as they extend on a street and should be determined: (1) By the species
and the size and shape of its crown; (2) by the fertility of the soil, since
the crown will attain smaller dimensions on poor than on fertile soils;
(3) whether it is intended to permit the trees to attain their full size, as
would usually be the case on parking strips, on wide walks, on residential
streets where the houses are some distance from the property line, along
wide avenues, river drives, etc. See figs. 16, 17 and 18.
For aesthetic considerations, plantings along a street should be of one
species, which should give character and tone to it. While it is unneces-
nit tfi^ nfi gfi
r^
Fig. 1G.
Fio. 18.
Fig. 16. — Street 126 feet wide. Two lateral rows of trees arranged alternately, one
row of standard shade trees, the other of ornamental trees.
Fig. 17. — Street 150 feet wide. One lateral row on each side and two middle rows,
(Arrangement of Green street. Augusta Ga. See PI. I.}
Fig. 18. — Street 150 feet wide. One lateral row of standard shade trees on each
Ride ; three middle rows, the outer rows standard shade trees, the middle row ornamental
trees.
ORNAMENTAL SPECIES WITH A STANDARD SHADE TREE. 37
sary that the one species should extend the entire length of the street, it
should be used at least for several blocks, and on short streets with wide
vistas it is preferable that the same species should exist throughout. But
while the association in alternate planting of two standard shade trees on
a street is not deemed advisable and is seldom attempted, in the milder
portions of this State, where there is such a large number of the choicest
species from which to make selection, many of them highly ornamental
either on account of flowers, bark or autumn foliage, two species can be
planted together and alternated with the greatest success. This has been
done on a small portion of Taylor Street in Columbia, S. C, and the re-
sults are in every way artistic and satisfactory. There should be a strong
contrast between the species either in size, color of foliage or form and
habit. Preferably one should be a standard shade tree and the alternating
species selected for some special quality, ornamental foliage or flowers.
Several combinations are suggested below in which there is contrast in
the color of the foliage of the two species and difference in their habit and
size.
COMBINATION OF AN ORNAMENTAL SPECIES WITH A
STANDARD SHADE TREE.
Standabd Shade Tbee. Obnakental Tree.
COMMON NAME. BOTANICAL NAME. COMMON NAME. BOTANICAL NAME.
Southern maple. .Acer floridanum Grape myrtle Lagerstroemia
indica
White linden Tilia heterophylla Locust Rohinia
pseudacacia
Tilia argentea Tilia argentea Hardy catalpa. . .CatoZpa speciosa
Water oak Quercua nigra Paulonia Paulonia im-
perialia
Willow oak Quercus pJieUos Tellowwood Oladraatis lutea
rMimosa tree Alhizzia juWh
Sycamore Platanua J riaain
[Mountain ash Pyrus americana
A small evergreen can be used as one of the species in place of the
ornamental tree. This makes a combination desirable in those cities and
towns which cater to winter tourists. Except the laurel oak and live oak
there are no large evergreen or semi-evergreen street shade trees. There
are, however, several smaller evergreen trees too diminutive to be ser-
viceable alone during the summer season, but which could appropriately
be used in connection with a larger deciduous tree. In spite of their
38 SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
small size, the presence of these evergreens gives vivacity and color to
what would otherwise be a gray-toned winter vista.
COMBINATION OF A SMALL EVERGKEEN SPECIES WITH A
STANDARD SHADE TREE.
Standabd Shade Tree. Evebobeeit.
common name. botanical name. common name. botanical name.
Southern maple.. Acer floridanum Evergreen cherry
or mockorange.Pruni£« caro-
liniana
Cork elm Ulmus alata Evergreen mag-
nolia Magnolia foetida
Holly ilex opaca
Willow oak Quercus phelloa
European
silver linden.. Tilia argentea
Trees which are eccentric either in form, -as the weeping willow and
weeping birch, pr in color, as the purple beech, should not be extensively
used for street planting. These trees have a place of their own, as on the
lawn and park, but they are usually out of place on the streets of a town.
Flowering species or those with bright colored autumnal foliage are not
open to objection since their prevailing color is green and the season of
their bright color is of short duration. Even rigid and formal shapes,
which have ceased to be regarded as oddities on account of their common
use, as the boUe and lombardy poplars, umbrella tree and bunge catalpa,
should be used with discreet moderation. But even such extreme shapes
can at times be employed to great advantage. The lombardy or boUe
poplars, used before a long row of flat-roofed buildings, as a factory
front, are in good taste (PI. X).
Lastly, it might be advisable for towns to select and use one standard
shade tree, which can be secured cheaply and which experience has shown
to be healthy and well adapted to the local conditions, to such an extent
that it will be characteristic of the town and associated with it, as are the
willow oaks of Charlotte, the elms of Winston, the laurel oaks of Wilming-
ton and live oaks of Southport. It is not meant by this, however, that
they should be used exclusively, for a sufficient number of species should
always be employed to give some variety to the planting.
TREE PLANTING ALONG EOADS.
It is not advisable to plant heavy foliaged trees near roads unless the
roads are either macadam or are sandy. In either of these cases the
TREE PLANTING ALONG EOADS. 39
trees are a considerable protection to the road, maintaining the moisture
in them which hardens either sandy or crushed stone roads, both by shad-
ing the roads from the sun* and by preventing their drying by winds.
Trees should be selected for roadside planting which will interef ere in
the least possible way with the cultivation or productiveness of adjoining
fields, and also which will yield either some valuable wood, nut or fruit.
For the middle and eastern parts of this State there is no tree superioi-
to the pecan for such planting. Its root system is rather deep, which is an
advantage in cultivating adjoining fields. When the pecan is grafted on
hickory stock, as can be readily done, it should be on either the white
hickory or the shagbark, since these species on account of their very
deeply seated tap root and latetal roots, injure adjacent tillable land very
slightly. The most important varieties of pecan are the Stuart^ Bolton,
Van Dewan, and Procher. These varieties can only be propagated by
grafting or by buying grafted stock which can be secured from reliable
southern nurserymen. Seedling pecans are readily raised, but even when
grown from the largest and finest nuts, will often yield only those of
indifferent quality. Pecans for roadside planting should be spaced not
less than 40 feet.
For planting in the western portion of this State the native chestnut is
unequalled. Wliile its nut is smaller than the Japanese nut, it is far
superior to it in flavor, and is the equal of the Italian or Spanish nut,
which is somewhat larger than the nut of the native tree. Those who de-
sire can readily graft the Japanese stock on roots of the native species,
and if it is desired to grow the Japanese nut, this would be advisable for
roadside planting, since on its own roots the Japanese chestnut makes a
much smaller tree than when grafted on our native species. On account of
its size, however, health and the abundance of its nuts, the native species
is to be recommended. It should be spaced 50 feet.
There are three native hickories which would make desirable roadside
trees. These are the shagbark, Carolina shagbark and the scaly bark or
red heart. Not only is the quality of their nuts excellent, but their timber
is of superior quality and they attain a large size.
Cherry trees have been extensively planted on the streets of Jefferson,
where they seem to have proved very satisfactory, and while such a fruit
tree cannot well be recommended for towns, it would make a very desirable
roadside tree in localities west of Greensboro, where the cherry thrives.
Most of the standard cherry trees attain a large size and remain in
healthy condition for a great many years. They should be spaced not less
than 40 feet
40 SHADE TREES FOB NORTH CABOLINA.
Walnuts (Juglans). — In addition to the native black walnut, which
is a very desirable roadside tree, there are several foreign walnuts which
yield nuts of a better quality.
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) can be planted along the roads in any
portion of the State. It is advisable to plant the trees in the places where
they are to remain, since it does not bear removing at all well on account
of its deeply seated tap root. Very large and thin-shelled nuts should be
selected, as the nut of the black walnut is capable of considerable im-
provement. Walnut trees should be spaced 45 feet.
English Walnut is not hardy further west than Salisbury. In the
eastern part of this State, it makes a medium sized tree and should be very
generally planted, even if only seedlings are raised. These latter are in-
ferior in the quality of their nuts to grafted stock secured from nursery-
men.
Two hardy Japanese walnuts are being offered by southern nurserymen
which are superior in the quality of their nuts to our native species, al-
though much inferior to the English walnut. One of these is the Juglans
cordiformis, whose nut bears much resemblance to the butternut. It is
thin shelled and the kernel can be removed entire. It makes a large tree,
forming a tap root and is hardy in the eastern two-thirds of this State.
The other, Juglans sieboldiana, which is a native of the mountains of
Japan, and which will probably be hardy in the mountains of this State,
is a smaller tree with a root system of many deep-seated roots and fibrous
rootlets. The nuts, which are borne at an early age in large clusters, are
of superior quality, about the size of those of the black walnut but with
much thinner shells. The nuts of both species can be secured at reason-
able prices. For trees suitable for very dry or wet places see p. 72.
AEBOE DAY.
It is not inappropriate to refer to the observance of Arbor Day by
schools and its true field of usefulness in this State.
While the same sentiment which is attached to the observance of Arbor
Day in the scantily forested western states cannot be applied in a well
wooded State like North Carolina, yet the observance here of such a day
has its significance. Arbor Day in North Carolina could be set aside for
the school children to learn of the great natural gift which we have in the
forests, and the relation of the forest to the well-being and wealth of our
people.
The right way to plant a tree, the treatment of the roots and crown, the
manner of pressing the earth firmly about the roots, and how to prune the
ARBOB DAY. 41
branches will make good manual exercises for the school children, but it
would also be well for everyone to be able to perform them.
The life of the tree is closely associated with the smallest roots which
absorb moisture and the need for preserving these when transplanting
should be emphasized. The moisture the tree must have, its use of
manure (leaf-mould and humus), how it grows and bears its fruit are
elementary to the fundamental truths of the relation of the forest to the
happiness and progress of our people.
Next to the ver}' soil itself, which in North Carolina was originally
nearly all forest covered, the forest has been the chief source of livelihood
for our people. If it at one time temporarily barred the progress of the
farm, it yielded at the same time a revenue in furnishing both warmth
and shelter. When the farming land became worn and thin or gullied,
the thickets of pine again covered the soil, restoring its fertility and mak-
ing it productive. The relation of the forest to the farm is paramount. It
is so intimate as to be almost inseparable. On the farm the uses of wood
are manifold, for fuel, fencing, building tools and barrels and crates for
shipping.
Within itself, moreover, the forest sustains a vast industry, employing
more than 20,000 of our men in handling and sawing and reconverting
its lumber and other products.
But even this is not the limit of the direct usefulness of the forest. The
value of the many rivers of North Carolina for manufacturing depends
largely upon the uniformity of their flow, upon the absence of great floods>
and the shortness of the period of low water, and upon how small a quan-
tity of sand and earth is washed from the soil of our hills and mountains.
Great unevenness in the flow of the streams makes it diflBcult to use the
power. Large amounts of earth in the water fill up the ponds and reser-
voirs and prevent the water being stored. The forest is very important in
adding to the usefulness of the rivers. The more forest there is on the
streams and the thicker the sponge of leaves and litter on the ground
beneath the trees the more uniform is the stream flow and the freer the
water from sand and earth. And this is true not only of the big rivers
but the small streams ae well. The bottoms along many of them, at one
time cultivated in corn, are now covered with sand bars or have been
washed into deep gullies by the floods as the influence of the forest has
been lessened by burning and destroying its humus in addition to clearing
the land.
It is from these thoughts that the real lesson of Arbor Day can be
drawn. The forest is one of our greatest and most valuable natural gifts
and one which, when destroyed, lessens our prosperity, reduces our sources
42 SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
of wealthy and brings great damage to other industries. As such a re-
source, it should be wisely used and in such a way that young trees may
always come up in the forest land to take the place* of those that are cut.
It is important to the owner that every acre of his land should be pro-
ducing something of value, and since in many parts of the State we cannot
grow grass on land which has become washed or worn, or which is very
steep, such land should be planted in trees that it may be growing some-
thing of use and value, for idle lands like idle hands are a reproach to
both owner and State. And since the forest is one of the primary sources
of wealth like our water-powers and our fisheries, the State should seek
by wise laws to perpetuate them, and we should try to retain their owner-
ship and use so far as possible among the people who live in the State, and
have their homes here, in order that the wealth that the forests create as
they rise in value, may remain at home. We should look forward with the
hope that eventually the greater portion of our hardwoods will be manu-
factured into finished products within the State, keeping skilled men busy,
and building cities where only towns stand to-day ; and that the wood will
not go out as mere rough lumber to supply the factories of other States.
These are all profitable suggestions for Arbor Day, and will serve to
show what the true significance of the day should be — the relation of our
forests to our wealth and prosperity.
DESCEIPTION OP TEEES SUITABLE FOE PLANTING.
Hardy Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa), a native ol the Mississippi VaUey,
is now naturalized around most of the larger towns of this State.
A small or middle-sized tree seldom attaining a greater height than 40
feet, it makes rapid growth in youth,- passing its prime before thirty years
old. The short, stout trunk covered with scaly gray-brown bark, excurrent
in young specimens, but deliquescent in old, divides into a few stout
spreading branches which form in old trees a broadly oval, usually unsym-
metrical crown.
The catalpa has large, ovate-cordate leaves which cast a dense shade;
they appear late in spring but are early deciduous. The large pale blue-
purple flowers which appear in early summer are very ornamental. The
twigs axe stout and slightly curved and the numerous, long slender pods
are pendant from them during winter until the succeeding spring.
The shallow root system develops rapidly and large specimens are easily
transplanted. The crown, even in old trees, will endure vigorous pruning.
The wood is rather brittle and easily broken by the wind and the crown is
apt to become ragged in old age. Its rapid growth, ease of rooting, toler-
ance of the knife and pleasing winter appearance commends it for road-
DESCBIPTION OF TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 43
side planting. The leaves are frequently eaten by a caterpillar^ which
makes it objectionable for a street tree. It is exacting as to soil^ requiring
a good loam or clay. Reproduction is easily procured by seed and there
are no diflBculties in propagating nursery stock. Two-year-old seedlings
should be cut back to the root to secure a straight unforked stem. In
planting along highways, the trees should be spaced 20 feet. It can
readily be distinguished from the common catalpa, which is more com-
mon but is of far less value, by its shorter and more slender pods, seldom
one-fourth inch thick.
Umbrella Catalpa (Catalpa bungei, var. nana) is a smaller tree than
the preceding but with similar foliage and twigs, but neither flowers nor
fruits. It forms a broad umbrella-shaped crown. When planted in rows
it should not be spaced more than 15 feet. Stock can be secured from
nurserymen. It is propagated only by grafting.
Paulonia (Paulonia imperialis), a native of Japan, is now naturalized
in many portions of the State. It is a middle-sized tree seldom attaining
a greater height than 35 feet Very rapid growth is made in youth, and
since it is a short-lived tree, it reaches its best development before its
twentieth year. The stout trunk covered with dark gray-brown, slightly
rough bark divides at a low height into a few large spreading or almost
horizontal branches, which form a broad flattened crown.
The paulonia has very large, thick, orbicular-cordate leaves which form
a dense foliage ; they appear late in spring, many usually dropping during
the summer, and are early deciduous. The very large clusters of pale
purple 'flowers which appear before and with the leaves in mid- April are
extremely fragrant. The twigs are stout, slightly up-curved at the tips
and bear during the winter the large erect panicles of velvety brown
flower buds as well as the clusters of fruit capsules (PI. VII, A).
The root system is shallow and develops rapidly and easily in trans-
planted trees, assuring the successful moving of even large specimens.
The crown will endure vigorous pruning. The wood is extremely brittle
and limbs are easily broken in storms. It decays rapidly, necessitating
considerable care to maintain the crown and trunk in healthy condition
during old age. It is not exacting as to soil and makes rapid and healthy
growth under adverse conditions, if abundantly supplied with light Be-
production is easily secured from seed as well as by root shoots, which are
borne in abundance. Two-year old seedlings of nursery stock should be
cut back to the ground to facilitate the formation of clear straight stems,
which will be sufficiently tall and stout for transplanting by the third
year. Trees should be spaced 25 feet.
44 SHADE TBEES FOB NORTH CABOLINA.
Ashes (Fraxinus). — There are many species of this genus whicn are
suitable for planting. Of the six native species, however, only four are
to be particularly recommended : Green ash, deep swamp ash, white and
Biltmore ashes.
Green Ash (Fraxinus lanceolata) is found along streams throughout
the State, except possibly in the high mountains. In cultivation it is a
middle-sized tree, seldom more than 50 feet high, making rapid growth in
youth, reaching its best development about its thirtieth year and remain-
ing for many years in excellent condition. The slender tnmk covered
with regularly furrowed gray-brown bark divides into many spreading
and ascending straight branches which form a globose crown.
The green ash has opposite bright green compound leaves formed of
numerous small leaflets which cast a rather light shade, often turning a
dull brown in autumn. They appear late in spring and are rather early
deciduous. The flowers are inconspicuous, but the drooping clusters of
fruit add much life to the foliage during summer and autumn. The
twigs are stout, straight and, like the branches, often forked. The root
system consists of numerous rather deeply seated roots. The trees are
easily transplanted. The crown will endure only moderate pruning and
the leader in young trees should not be cut until the stem has made the
desired height. The stem of the ash is prone to fork and this should be
guarded against, for although the wood is elastic and not easily broken
by storms, forking stems will frequently split. Wounds do not heal rap-
idly and scars on old trees which show any heart wood must be kept well
painted to prevent decay. With this exception, the trees are quite free
from diseases and insects. For its best development, green ash requires
a good soil not too hard and dry. Eeproduction is easily effected by seed
which are borne in abundance. Trees should be spaced 30 feet.
Swamp Ash (Fraxinus profunda) is found along the larger streams
south of Morganton and east of Salisbury. It is a large tree making rapid
growth in youth and reaching its best development about its thirtieth
year, and remaining for many years in good health. The rather stout
trunk, which is covered with very deeply and regularly chiseled brown-
gray bark, divides into rather few spreading and ascending straight, fre-
quently forked branches, which form a large globose or spreading crown.
The swamp ash has compound foliage much like that of the green ash
but larger, more leathery, drooping and decidedly whitened beneath. The
flowers, fruit, twigs and root system are also quite similar to those of the
green ash. Although a swamp tree, it makes rapid growth in ctdtivation
as a shade tree on uplands and is the ash most frequently planted in the
DESCRIPTION OP TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 45
towns east of Morganton, and south of Raleigh it does much better than
any other tree of this genus. Trees should be 8pacei.36 feet.
White Ash and Biltmore Ash {Fraxinus americana and Fraxinus
biltmoreana) . — ^These trees are much alike in their foliage and habit;
both are found along streams throughout the western portion of the State,
extending to considerable elevations on moist mountain slopes. They
have habits and cultural characters similar to those of the green and the
swamp ashes, but are better adapted for planting in the extreme western
portion of the State than either of the latter species. The white ash does
not make as vigorous and healthy growth east of the Blue Bidge as the
green and swamp ashes and is not so suitable for planting there. They
should be spaced 30 feet.
Small-leaved or Cork Elm (Ulmus alata) is found indigenous below
an elevation of 2000 feet. A large tree attaining a height of 40 to 60
feet, it makes on moist sandy soils rapid growth in youth, and on dryer
and stiffer soils rather slow but well sustained growth for a great many
years, reaching its prime after the fortieth year and attaining under good
conditions an age of 100 years. The slender trunk, only slightly butt-
ressed at base, and covered with very dark gray, often nearly black rough
and slightly scaly bark, divides at a low height into numerous, graceful,
ascending branches, which form an elongated, vase-shaped crown. The
small dark-green leaves are distichously arranged along the delicate pen-
dulous twigs. They appear late in spring and after turning a dull yellow
in early autumn, drop gradually until frost. The minute brownish-purple
flowers appear in February in small numerous clusters along the twigs,
and are succeeded by an abundance of silvery-brown, scale-like fruit which
matures and falls the middle of April just before or as the leaves appear.
The twigs are slender, dark-brown and often wing-margined on young
trees and form graceful, flattened, pendulous sprays. The root system is
shallow, only a moderate tap root being developed ; while the lateral roots
lie near or on the surface and extend great distances from the tree. The
crown of young trees will endure vigorous pruning; old trees, however,
recover slowly. While the wood is extremely tough, the forked branches
which are numerous are easily split either in wind storms or beneath the
weight of sleet (PI. III). For this reason the tree requires careful train-
ing in youth to secure a crown free from large forks and formed of nu-
merous well-spaced and equal-sized branches (Pis. I and VI). The heart-
wood, unless carefully painted after pruning, decays rapidly, but with
care trees can be maintained in excellent condition until very old. It is
not exacting as to soil and while the growth under unfavorable conditions
is slow, the general health remains good. Eeproduction is easily secured
46 SHADE TREES FOB NORTH CAROLINA.
from the seed which are bome in abundance. Trees should be spaced 40
feet. On account of its late leafing, its broom-shaped crown and its adapt-
ability to inferior soils, this elm is especially suitable for planting un-
paved streets and roads; and on account of its high arched crown, it
interferes in town less with illumination than any other large tree. Its
superficial roots, however, make it less desirable on paved streets, espe-
cially beneath granolithic pavements, which it at times upheaves. Beau-
tiful in summer when its waving fronds are stirred by a breeze, it is
equally so when the delicate tracery of its numerous curved branches and
sweeping hanging twigs are etched against a winter sky.
White Elm (JJlmus americana) is quite similar to the cork elm in
both growth and habit. It makes, however, a small tree on upland soils,
is not 80 long-lived, is less healthy and is more subject to internal decay.
The stem is more tapering and prominently buttressed at the fluted base.
The crown is broader, more spreading, and the twigs while reflexed do not
form the graceful, drooping sprays which characterize the preceding spe-
cies. The leaves, appearing two weeks earlier than those of the cork elm,
are larger, of a brighter green, and the fruit, appearing in March and
maturing before the leaves are full grown, is green instead of brown.
Except the scant verdure of its early fruit, which is the first welcome
green of the trees, the white elm, in this State, does not make as acceptable
a shade tree as the other native elms. Nevertheless, it is extensively
planted in many of the towns east of the Blue Eidge, and is not in fact
usually separated from the cork elm. The white elm has been attacked
at Winston (where it has been extensively planted) and* at other points
north and west of Greensboro, by the imported elm leaf beetle, an insect
which, when locally well established, largely destroys the foliage of the
elms. It is hoped that climatic conditions will prevent its spread south
and east of Greensboro.
Slippery Elm {Ulmus pubescens) has a more spreading fan-shaped
crown than the small-leaved elm and larger twigs and foliage. It is less
common than the small-leaved and is in no respect superior to it' as a
shade tree. It grows, however, throughout the high mountain counties
and is available for planting in that section, as well as in other portions of
the State.
Hackberry {Celtis Mississippiensis) , a native tree, is found along the
larger water courses. In the coastal plain it acquires large proportions,
but westward is smaller. Its growth is rapid in old age as well as in
youth, reaching maturity as a shade tree by its twenty-fifth year. The
short stout tnmk is covered with smooth, light-gray bark, and often
roughened with large, cork-like excrescences. The fluted base is enlarged
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY BULLETIN NO. l6. PLATE VI
TYPICAL KLM, VASE-SHAPED CROWN, FORMED OP MANY ASCENDING STEMS.
DESCRIPTION OF TKEE8 SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 47
and the trunk divides at a low height into many wide-spreading, angular
branches and slender, intricate branchlets, which form a large globose or
flattened crown. The foliage is small and elm-like and appears delicate
green in early spring, maturing by mid- April before that of other species
have scarce burst their buds. The root system is like that of the elms,
superficial and spreading. Few trees, however, replace roots more rap-
idly, which enables large specimens to be planted with perfect success.
The crowns, even of old trees, endure the most vigorous pruning, but the
wood decays with such rapidity that every precaution is necessary to pre-
vent hollows and defective trunks. The wood is brittle and easily broken
by sleet and wind storms. Not exacting as to soil, the hackberry makes
satisfactory growth, except on dry, heavy clays. Young plants are easily
secured from seed which are borne solitary in a small cherry-like berry
that matures in the late fall and remains on the tree throughout the
winter. It should be spaced 40 feet. Except in its very early leafing and
smooth white bark, the hackberry possesses no characters which give it
preference above the small-leaved elm. It is planted almost to the exclu-
sion of other species on the streets of Columbia, S. C.
Hickories (Hicoria). — Of the many species of the genus which are
native to the State, only three deserve consideration for general shade
planting in parks or on roadsides. These are the shagbark, the Carolina
shagbark and the red heart or scaly bark.
Shagbark {Hicoria ovata) is one of the most widely distributed trees
of the State, occurring along streams and on moist slopes from the coast
to an elevation of 3000 feet. As a shade tree, it attains a height of from
60 to 70 feet, making rapid growth in youth and maintaining a healthy
condition to an advanced age. The straight cylindrous trunk, covered
with long narrow strips of loose gray bark, is excurrent until the tree is
well past its youth. The crown of the young tree is pyramidal but be-
comes broader and more oval as the trunk branches with age. The com-
pound leaves are formed of large drooping leafiets. They are bright
green and fragrant when they appear in early spring; afford a dense
shade during the summer and turn various tones of yellow and brown in
late autumn before falling. While the flowers are not conspicuous, the
scales of the winter buds greatly enlarge in unfolding in the spring and
assume many delicate shades of red and yellow. The twigs are stout,
usually slightly curved and tipped with large acute buds which are con-
spicuous during the winter. The fruit from which the thick husk freely
splits is white, thin-shelled and the most delicately flavored of any native
nut. Nuts are usually borne in abundance in this as well as in the other
species.
48 SHADE TREES FOB NORTH CAROLINA.
A very large tap-root is rapidly developed in youth which greatly inter-
feres with transplanting even small specimens. Hickories admit of mod-
erately severe priming, especially in youth. The wood is tough and is not
liable to injury by wind storms, but top branches are occasionally badly
broken by sleet. A twig girdler does much damage by pruning small
branchlets and in many localities a timber beetle is very destructive to
middle-aged and old trees by girdling them beneath the bark. The foliage
is remarkably free from fungus diseases ; the wood, however, rapidly de-
cays if wounds are left unprotected. It is not over exacting as to soil
and will produce a nice, shapely tree on soils of moderate fertility, if once
successfully started. Nuts, which are easily procured, sprout readily ; but
it is better to plant them in the place where the tree is to grow either in
parks, private grounds, or along roadsides, than to transplant young trees.
Trees should be spaced 40 feet.
Carolina Shaobark (Hicoria Carolines septentrionaiis) is a native
tree growing on uplands, usually on sandy soils from Wake to Guilford
counties across the State from Virginia to South Carolina. It is similar
to the shagbark but a smaller tree with a slightly smaller nut and smaller
twig and foliage. On thin dry soils it makes more satisfactory growth
than the common shagbark. Nuts are usually borne in abundance and
can be secured for planting from nearly any county between Person and
Anson.
SoALY Bark or Red Heart Hickory {Hicoria odorata) is found
throughout the State, preferring fertile upland soils. It is a large tree
attaining in cultivation a height of from 50 to 70 feet, making moderate
growth until an old tree and reaching an age of more than 100 years.
The straight, cylindrical trunk is covered with dark gray scaly-brown
bark or occasionally merely deeply and irregularly furrowed. In young
trees the trunk is excurrent and the crown conical or ovoid, but in old
trees it is much divided near the top and the crown assumes a broader and
rounder shape. The red heart hickory has dark green compound leaves
formed of large drooping leaflets, the petioles often tinged with red or
purple. They are fragrant in spring when they appear and turn lemon
yellow before falling in autumn. The lustrous purple-brown twigs are
slightly curved and spreading.
A deep tap-root is developed interfering with successful transplanting.
In its ability to endure pruning and its behavior in wind and sleet storms,
it is quite similar to the shagbark. Not so exacting as to soil, it makes
more satisfactory growth on close upland soils than the preceding species.
It is propagated in the same way. Trees should be spaced 40 feet.
DESCRIPTION OF TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 49
Pecan, a native of the lower Mississippi valley and Gulf States, has
been extensively planted throughout eastern and middle Carolina. A
large tree, attaining a height of from 60 to 70 feet, it makes rapid growth
in youth and possesses a prolonged and healthy old age. The long, slen-
der trunk, covered with more or less scaly dark gray bark, divides when
middle-aged into many spreading and ascending branches forming a
broadly oval crown.
The pecan has large dark green, compound leaves formed of numerous
small leaflets, which appear late in spring and fall late in autumn, acquir-
ing tones of yellow and brown. The greenish-yellow flowers which appear
considerably before the leaves in slender catkins are not very conspicuous.
The slender, slightly curved gray-brown twigs are flexuous and bear long
but inconspicuous gray buds, and often during winter the empty husk
which contained the nut.
A tap-root and numerous long surface roots are developed. In subjects
raised in the nursery the tap-root must either be turned by placing a hard
substance beneath the nuts, or cut several times in re-transplanting. The
leader should not be cut back further than the twig of the year if young
trees are expected to form a shapely crown. The crown of young trees is
oval, becoming broader with age. The wood is not quite so tough as that
of the shagbark, but it withstands both sleet and wind storms very well.
For its best development, it is exacting as to soil, requiring a fertile, moist
situation ; but does moderately well on uplands of good quality. Nuts are
borne in abundance on seedlings after the fifteenth year, but several years
earlier on grafted stock. Young trees are easily raised from seed which
require the same care and are subject to the same diseases as the other
hickories. Trees grown from seed cannot be expected to always produce
nuts equal to those that were planted, since most of the commercial nuts
are from grafted stock. Grafted trees can be secured from commercial
nurserymen. There is no nut tree more suitable for extensive planting
in the middle and eastern part of Carolina than the pecan. It will do
well in nearly all portions of the State except the mountains, for either
roadside planting, large parks or private grounds. For planting above an
elevation of 1200 feet, both seed and grafted stock diould be secured
only from Mississippi Eiver points north of St. Louis, to insure hardiness.
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) is foimd growing throughout the
State. A large tree attaining as a shade tree a height of 50 to 70 feet, it
makes rapid growth for several decades, maintaining a long and healthy
old age. The straight cylindrical trunk, covered with nearly black, deeply
furrowed bark, is excurrent in young trees which have a conical crown but
at middle age divides and the crown becomes broadly oval.
50 SHADE TREES FOB NORTH CAROLINA.
The large bright green compound leaves are formed of numerous leaf-
lets. They appear late in spring, form a dense shade during summer and
turn dull brown before falling late in autumn. The flowers are not con-
spicuous. Twigs are stout and spreading. The root system has a deep
tap-root which hinders the transplanting of any but tiie smallest speci-
mens. Young trees can be moderately pruned but old trees not so severely.
The wood is elastic and well withstands storms. The walnut does very
well on upland soils if not too dry and sandy, although it naturally grows
only in moist fertile situations. A high percentage of the nuts germinate
and young trees are easily raised, but since transplanting is rendered
difBcult on account of the tap-root, they are best planted in the place they
are to grow. Trees should be spaced 40 to 60 feet.
Tulip or Yellow Poplar (Liriodendron iuLipifera) is a native tree
found in moist, cool situations throughout the State, most abundant in
the western portion of the State and least so in the coastal plain region.
In cultivation it becomes a large-sized tree attaining a height of 70 to
80 feet and an age of more than 100 years. The excurrent trunk, covered
with light gray regularly furrowed bark is straight and cylindrical, only
slightly tapering. The crown, conical when young and oval when mature,
is formed of many short slightly ascending, gracefully arched branches.
The bright green lustrous foliage appears very early in spring, forms a
moderately dense canopy and turns a bright yellow in early autumn before
falling. The ornamental yellow and orange flowers appear in April and
May when the foliage is nearly grown. The twigs are long, curved and
tipped with large conspicuously flattened buds (PL 11, A).
On account of its excurrent stem the tulip poplar will not endure- top
pruning and must be given abundant room for the perfect development of
its splendid crown. The leader should not be cut back beyond the wood
of the season. Severe pruning in any portion of the tree tends to produce
short branches or false leaders, which greatly mar the beauty and sym-
metry of the crown. Care must be taken to remove any false leader,
which naturally develops, as early as possible. The tree is remarkably
free from the attacks of both fungus and insect diseases, but suffers from
sun scald when young.
The root system is rather deeply seated and formed of large, fleshy
roots, and transplanting should take place late in spring just before the
foliage begins to develop. While seed are borne in abundance only a few
are fertile, but young plants are easily raised if lightly shaded until two
years old. Trees should be spaced 40 feet. While not suited for general
street planting, there is no finer tree for avenues in places west of
Statesville.
DESCRIPTION OF TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 51
Cucumber Tree (Magnolia acuminata) is indigenous to the mountains
of this State, but grows well in cultivation from Raleigh westward. It
forms a slender tree of moderate size, becoming upward of 60 feet in
height. The excurrent trunk is covered with light-gray, slightly scaly
bark; and the long symmetrical crown, conical when young, and oval when
past middle age, is formed of numerous short nearly horizontal or slightly
ascending angled branches, with ascending tips set with short, stout, spur-
like, erect twigs. The bright green lustrous foliage appears early in
spring and forms a dense shade. The greenish white fragrant flowers
open in May soon after the leaves and are succeeded by the conspicuous
green or reddish fruit. The large, silvery-gray velvety buds are prominent
in winter. Like the tulip poplar, the cucumber tree cannot be severely
pruned. It also requires the same care in transplanting. It is not known
to be subject to any diseases.
The fleshy seed should be collected from the cones in September and
kept like those of the other magnolias during winter. The seedlings re-
quire a slight shade during the flrst two years. While scarcely adapted
for ordinary street planting, the cucumber tree lends itself admirably on
account of its dignity, straight trunk, symmetrical crown, lustrous foliage,
and pleasing winter appearance to planting avenues and parks. A hand-
some specimen, more than 75 feet in height, ornaments the State House
grounds at Baleigh.
Mountain Magnolia (Magnolia fraseri) is a native of the higher
mountains of this State and so far as is known, has not been cultivated
below them. There is little reason, however, why it should not do as well
as the cucumber tree where that will thrive.
It is a middle-sized tree attaining a height of from 40 to 50 feet, reach-
ing its maturity before its fiftieth year and rapidly passing into senile
decrepitude. The excurrent trunk is straight and cylindrical, covered
with smooth light-gray beech-like bark. The crown, formed of few
spreading branches, is oval when young and broadly oval at maturity.
The ample bright green, lustrous leaves are borne in spreading whorls at
the tips of the twigs. The very large, creamy-white flowers, 8 inches or
more in diameter, appear before the leaves at the tips of the twigs in early
May and are followed in mid-summer by the beautiful scarlet fruit, 4
inches or more in length on declined or even pendant pedicles. The few
very large red-brown lustrous twigs are upcurved at their tips and capped
by prominent, elongated buds.
As in the case of the other magnolias, it should be pruned only in ex-
treme moderation. It requires the same care in transplanting and is
propagated in the same manner as the cucumber tree. The foliage is free
52 SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
from insects and fungus diseases. The wood, however, is brittle and fre-
quently broken in wind and sleet storms. It decays rapidly on exposure
and when pruned must be carefully protected. It has a tendency to
sucker around the base of the stem and such sprouts should be promptly
removed. They can often be used for propagation.
While a smaller tree than the cucumber tree and lacking its symmetry
and dignity, the mountain magnolia is well suited for planting avenues
and for use in parks, in the western portion of the State.
Evergreen Magnolia (Magnolia fcetida) is a native of the southern
United States and varieties of it can be cultivated in this State, in shel-
tered positions, as far west as the foot of the Blue Eidge, though much of
the foliage will often winter-kill west of Raleigh and Charlotte.
In cultivation it makes a middle-sized tree attaining a height of 40 feet
and reaching, except in favored localities, old age by its sixtieth year.
The trunk is excurrent and the smooth bark dark olivacious gray. The
crown, formed of numerous horizontal branches, is conical when young
and oval at maturity. While there are several horticultural varieties dif-
fering slightly in size, shape and shade of the leaves, they are in all forms
large, thick, leathery and evergreen. The flowers, deeply cup-shaped,
from 8 to 10 inches wide, appear in different varieties from May to July,
and are followed by the oval red-berried fruit.
The magnolia can be pruned only in moderation. Care should be taken
in developing young subjects to prevent the formation of forked stems.
Only one leader should ever be allowed to remain, and false leaders, which
occasionally occur on branches, should be promptly removed. A magnolia
should always assume the shape of a pyramid, the foliage mass rising un-
broken from the ground, and for this reason the lower branches should
not be removed, but should be trained horizontally, and allowed to grow
to their full limit and thicken as much as possible in order to fully conceal
the base of the stem. The young subjects should be trained to develop
numerous low branches with this object in view. The roots are few, large
and fleshy, and penetrate the ground to a considerable depth, requiring for
best development a light moist fertile soil. As is the case with the other
species of this genus, the magnolia is not easily transplanted. The best
season is late spring and then the leaves should be pulled or clipped and
only small specimens used. Magnolias can be used to best advantage for
street planting only in alternation with other species, and are not adapted
for general street planting, but permit of occasional use on parking strips,
etc. In planting along avenues and drive-ways, specimens should never
be placed within 15 feet of them to allow for the future spread of the
lower branches.
DESCRIPTION OF TBEE8 SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 53
American Linden and White Linden (Tilia americana and Tilia
heterophylla) , — There are several species of linden which are adapted for
street planting. All have nearly similar foliage, the same general charac-
ter of branching and forming the crown and attain in cultivation about
the same proportions. The two native species which are available are the
American and White lindens, both natives of this State and both easily
secured from nurserymen. They are quite similar except in the color and
size of their foliage, which in the American linden is smaller and bright-
green beneath; while that of the White linden is more ample, thicker and
of a silvery whiteness below.
In cultivation the native lindens attain a height of 30 to 45 feet, mak-
ing rapid growth, especially in youth, which is well maintained to a con-
siderable age. They are rather exacting as to soil and do best on loose
moist loams abundantly supplied with organic matter and furnishing
copious root space. The trunk, covered with thin, light gray, slightly fur-
rowed bark, divides at a low height into many erect and ascending
branches, forming an oval or in old age a broadly oval crown. The leaves,
differing slightly in the two species, appear late in spring, form a dense
canopy, and turning dull yellow or brown, fall early in autumn. The
large, pendulous clusters of fragrant flowers, appear late in May or early
June and are succeeded by the dry berry-like fruit appended to narrow
leaf -like bracts which often renxain on the twigs imtil late in winter. The
branchlets divide into many stout, gracefully curved twigs.
The lindens endure priming extremely well and over large crowns can
be heavily topped. While the wood is soft, it is elastic and not badly
broken by storms. It decays easily and wounds must be promptly pro-
tected. Forest pulled specimens sun scald.
The root system is shallow but finely divided. Broken roots are freely
replaced and transplanting of even large trees is successfully accom-
plished. Young plants can be abundantly secured from seed but must be
protected by lattice-shade until two years old. On account of the rapidity
of their growth, the ease with which they recuperate from heavy pruning
and with which they can be transplanted, their freedom from disease,
dense foliage and symmetrical crown, the lindens are among the most de-
sirable shade trees. Trees should be spaced 40 feet.
The European Silver Linden (TUia argentea), a tree of the old
world carried in stock by most nurserymen, has the same general charac-
ters as the native species, but is more desirable in several particulars.
The ramification of the twigs is more numerous and the twigs themselves
are more slender, flexuous and delicate. The crown is more compact and
the twigs spread horizontally from the ascending branches which gives a
54 SHADE TR££S FOR NOBTH CAROLINA.
charming winter effect. The leaves, small and silvery-white beneath,
form a dense canopy. In this State it apparently is better adapted to
both poor and heavy soils than the native species. Its tendency however
is to form a short trunk and this must be rectified by judicious trimming.
{TUia europea, T. parvifolia, etc., should not be planted.) Trees should
be spaced 30 feet.
Horse Chestnut (Aesculus octandra), a native of Asia Minor, is now
extensively naturalized in this State. It is a middle-sized tree making
rapid growth until well advanced in age. The stout trunk covered with
gray-brown scaly bark is naturally excurrent in the juvenile period, but
divides into many branches in middle age. The crown, oval in youth,
becomes very broadly oval in old age, or when the tree is heavily topped.
The dense foliage is compound and droops from the tips of the common
leaf stalk. The large panicles of highly ornamental white, pink-tipped
flowers are succeeded by the fruit burra. The straight stout chestnut-
brown twigs bear during the winter large oval buds. While a deep tap-
root is naturally developed, the trees are easily transplanted and root
readily. Few trees are more tolerant of the knife and the crowns recover
vigorously after heavy pollarding. Young trees are easily raised from seed
which are borne in abundance. Trees should be spaced 35 feet.
Buckeye (Aesculius), a native, middle-sized tree, is suitable for plant-
ing on fertile soil west of the Blue Eidge. It preserves the same general
character as the horse chestnut, but is more exacting ss to soil and the
flowers are not so showy. Forms occur with pink and red as well as yel-
low flowers. The flowering period, which is early in May, lasts only a few
days. Trees should be spaced 30 feet.
Maples (Acer), — The maples constitute the most widely planted
group of shade trees in the United States, and are probably better adapted
to street conditions than any other trees. There are four native species
which are suitable for planting in this State.
Norway Maple {Acer platanoides) . — Besides the native species, de-
scribed below, this European tree has been planted at considerable expense
around many towns. It has fastigiate branches and forms a narrow crown.
Its foliage is not so dense as that of the native species, but closely resem-
bles that of the sugar maple, from which, localh', it is not separated. It
lacks the autumnal brilliancy of the native trees and is not superior to
well-grown stock of the native hard maples.
Southern Maple or Southern Sugar Maple, grows in this State
along streams east of Sf^lisbury. It is a middle-sized tree, seldom attain-
ing a height of more than 40 feet, making rapid growth in youth which
is fairly well maintained until past middle age, but the growth in old age
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. l6. PLATE Vll
2 «
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DESCRIPTION OP TBEES SUITABLE FOR PLAISTTING. 55
is slow. Trees fifteen years old are already of good size. The rather stout
trunks divide at a low height into many slender, ascending flexuous
branches which form an oval or broadly oval crown. The twigging is
abxindant, fine and graceful. The drooping foliage, dark green above and
white beneath, appears early in April after the delicate pendulous green-
ish-yellow flowers and forms a dense shade. In autumn it is conspicuous
with shades of red and yellow. (See PL VIII.)
The fibrous, rather compact root system enables it to be easily trans-
planted and its adaptability to all classes of soils makes it one of the
most suitable trees for general planting east of Charlotte and Winston.
It stands pruning well, even in old age, but very large branches must not
be cut back without leaving sap lifters; otherwise their stumps will die.
While the crown is usually S3mimetrical, it is not so much so as that of
the northern sugar maple, and single branches often make rapid and irreg-
ular growth, requiring some care and'pruning to maintain in form.
It is extremely free from insects and diseases, except the susceptibility
to sun-scald, necessitating the protection of the stems of young specimens,
at least of forest-pulled stock. There is no more desirable tree for the
planting of streets of towns and cities or of roads where quick growth,
dense shade and a not over large size tree is desired than the set^thern
maple. It is easily propagated from seed which mature in October.
Trees should be spaced 40 feet.
Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) is a native of the mountains of this
State. It is a middle-sized tree, becoming in cultivation somewhat larger
than the southern maple but with about the same rate of growth; rapid in
youth and gradually declining with old age. Both this and the southern
maple maintain soundness and dense symmetrical crowns until three-
quarters of a century old. The crown is somewhat narrower and habit of
growth more f astigiate in this than in the preceding species. The bark on
the limbs and branchlets is ashy gray and lacka the pinkish tinge which
is typical of the southern maple. The dense foliage i& dark green on both
sides and, as with the other species, acquires in autumn many brilliant
shades of red and yellow. (PI. VII, B)
It has the same root system and stands pruning equally as well as the
preceding but naturally forms a more symmetrical crown. It is the most
desirable tree for general planting in this State west of Salisbury and is
easily raised from seed which ripen in autumn* Trees should be spaced
40 feet.
Red Maple {Acer rubrum) is found throughout the State either in its
typical form with five-lobed, bright green leaves, or in the trident form
which has smaller leaves, extremely dark green above and whitened be-
56 SHADE TBEES FOB NOBTH CAROLINA.
neath. It is a middle-sized tree seldom attaining in cultivation a greater
height than 35 feet. The growth in youth is rapid but it falls oflE con-
siderably when past middle age. As a shade tree it is not very long-lived
and specimens 40 years old are usually past their prime. The rather
slender trunk covered with light gray scaly bark divides into a few spread-
ing branches which form an oval, usually unsymmetrical crown. The
bright red spreading twigs are stouter, shorter and stiffer than in the hard
maples and are knotted during the deciduous season by the large, globose
flower buds, from which in February and March appear the small clusters
of bright red or yellow flowers, followed by dense masses of fruit, at first
green, and at length just as the leaves are appearing, bright scarlet.
It is one of the trees most easily transplanted, but only makes satis-
factory growth on soils of good quality and should not be planted on
stiff, dry, or on very light, poor soils. It stands trimming well, espe-
cially when young.
The leaves are netted by leaf miners and spotted by a species of para-
sitic fungus. Young stems are subject to sun-scald if unprotected, and
friBshly exposed wood is liable to rapid decay. Seeds mature in May and
should be at once planted. Trees should be spaced 30 feet
Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum) is a native of river swamps in the
eastern portion of the State, but is extensively planted in all of the larger
towns. It is a small or middle-sized tree, seldom more than 30 feet in
height; short-lived, attaining its prime in 20 or 25 years, and making very
rapid growth especially in youth. The slender trunk, covered with dark
gray, scaly bark, divides at a low height into a few slender, ascending
branches which form an irregular broadly oval or flat-topped crown. The
long, rather stout and bright colored twigs are pendulous as are the
branchlets. The beautiful, deeply-lobed, bright green foliage appears
very early in spring, forms rather a light shade during stimmer, turns
very brilliant in autumn and falls early.
It roots extremely easy and is one of the most readily transplanted
trees. Even large specimens stand heavy pruning. The leaves are sub-
ject to few diseases, but the soft brittle wood is easily broken by sleet and
wind storms and decays rapidly on exposed surfaces. It is easily propa-
gated from seed which mature in May. Trees should be spaced 35 feet.
Box Elder or Ash-leaved Maple (Acer negimdo) is a native tree
which is much advertised by nurserymen. It is related in its twigging
and general characters to the maples, but is much smaller than any which
have been mentioned. It is too small in fact to make a desirable shade
tree and its habit of low branching and forming short stems, which is not
easily rectified, makes it generally undesirable.
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. 1 6. PLATE VIII
SOUTHERN MAPLES. ASCENDING HABIT OF TREES PLANTED CLOSE TOGETHER. IN A
FEW YEARS EVERY OTHER TREE SHOULD BE REMOVED TU GIVE NECESSARY GROWING
SPACE AND PREVENT DEFORMITIES.
DESCHIPTION OF TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 57
There are several species of extensively advertised foreign maples, but
none have any characters which would give them preference for this State
over the native species for cleanlinessj, health, rapidity of growth, sym-
metry or beauty of autumnal foliage.
Dogwood {Comus florida), a common native tree fully as beautiful in
autumn with its crimson foliage and in winter with its small clusters of
scarlet fruit as in spring when covered with a profusion of large white
flowers. It is too small, however, to be used as a shade tree under any
circumstances, 10 to 15 feet being the usual height; but it might occa-
sionally be alternated on broad planting strips with standard shade trees.
It is not difficult to transplant but is of slow growth and the stems should
be well trimmed up before it is permitted to form a crown.
Black Oum (Nyssa sylvatica) is one of our most striking native trees,
with slender horizontal branches, short> spur-like twigs, and dark green
clean glossy foliage which becomes crimson in early autumn. It makes a
very handsome shade tree for parks or private grounds and might be
occasionally tried for street planting. It is difficult to transplant,
however.
Sweet Gum (Liquidambar), a common tree in this State east of
Statesville, reaches a large size, making rapid growth, especially in youth.
The stout trunk is excurrent. The crown, formed of numerous branches,
is conical in yo\ing specimens and ovoid in old. The twigs are large,
rather abimdant and are frequently cork-winged. The foliage is dense,
very deeply lobed, of a bright pleasing green color and becomes scarlet in
autumn.
Some little difficulty is experienced in transplanting sweet gum on ac-
count of its deeply seated tap-root, requiring it to be moved when young
and very small. If carefully moved it readily takes root and makes satis-
factory growth on moist, loose soils. The leader should not be cut back
beyond the wood of the season, since false leaders are readily produced
in the branches, which cause misshapen crowns. Even old trees, however,
stand vigorous lateral pruning. The sweet gum is free from insects and
diseases but freshly exposed wood surfaces decay rapidly. On account
of its narrow conical crown, handsome foliage and nice appearance in the
winter, the regular ascending branches and shining twigs, often having
the globose fruit cones pendant from them until the following spring, it
is suitable for planting avenues or for other formal lines. It should be
spaced 40 feet.
Ix)cusT or Yellow Locust (Bobinia pseudacacia) . — This tree is found
throughout the middle and western portions of the State. It is a slender
tree of medium growth, attaining in favored localities a height of 60 feet
58 SHADE TBEES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
and an age of 50 or 60 years. The trunks which is inclined to be
crooked, usually passes weU up in the crown before dividing. The crown
is narrowly oval, becoming broader in old trees and the compound foliage
is light, airy and graceful. The locust bears large drooping clusters of
white fragrant flowers in early spring. It stands pruning extremely well.
The root system is shallow and the tree is therefore very easily trans-
planted. The foliage is attacked by several insects, though rarely badly
damaged ; and the trunks of trees are subject to the attack of a species of
polyporus which destroys the heartwood and weakens the stem. For this
reason exposed wood, although the surface is very small, should be care-
fully painted, for since the sapwood is only a few rings thick, the heart-
wood will usually be exposed even when small limbs are removed. The
roots are apt to produce suckers which should be promptly removed. It
can be propagated either by seed or from suckers.
The locust makes a desirable tree for planting in many places in the
middle and western portions of the State and, while not well adapted to
prolonged lines, on account of the attention it requires, its beautiful
foliage and fragrant white flowers make it occasionally desirable. There
are many handsome trees in Salisbury where it was formerly more exten-
sively used than at present. Trees should be spaced 35 feet.
Ebd-bud (Cercis canadensis), a common native tree of small size, which
haa an abundance of small dark rose flowers along its thin, sinuous
branches in March before the leaves appear. It is easily transplanted and
stands trimming very well, which is seldom necessary, as its small, broad,
flattened crown is usually well shaped and requires little attention. It is
too small to be used alone as a shade tree but could serviceably be used
in alternation with standard trees in parking strips.
Honey Looust {Oleditschia triacanthos) , a well known extensively
naturalized tree, which forms a stout trunk and a large spreading crown
of numerous tortuous branches and twigs. The thin, light green, finely
divided foliage is extremely attractive. For street trees the thorny stems
and large pods render it objectionable, but it is well suited for roads and
parksi It is easily transplanted, having a shallow, fibrous root system,
stands pruning well and is readily propagated from seed.
Mimosa Tree (Albizzia or Acacia) , a native of southern Asia, has been
extensively naturalized in middle and eastern Carolina. It is of small
size, seldom more than 25 feet in height, nor does it make an old tree.
Specimens 30 years old are usually well passed their prime. The trunk
is short, unless carefully lengthened and the broad flattened crown is
much like that of the umbrella tree, although the branches are less nu-
DESOBIPTION OF TRBES SUITABLE FOH PLANTING. 59
meroTis. The foliage which appears very late in spring is finely divided
and of a pleasing green color. It is sensitive, slowly folding after irrita-
tion and at night. It is covered in June and July with a profusion of
very fragrant rose-colored flowers, which render it one of our most desira-
ble ornamental trees. It stands pruning well but the wood decays rapidly
on exposure. It is free from insects.
It is one of the most desirable ornamental trees which we have for
parking, narrow streets, or for alternating with standard shade trees. For
lawns or for small avenues it is also desirable. Its only disadvantages are
the tendencies to form a low trunk and its short life, which are more than
offset by its beauty. It is easily propagated from seed and is perfectly
hardy as far west as Statesville. Trees should be spaced 30 feet.
Kentucky Coffee Tree {Oymnocladus dioica) is an introduced tree
occasionally planted in this State. While very striking on accoimt of its
flowers, large compound foliage, nearly ascending branches and stout
twigs, its wood is brittle and easily broken by storms and its extensive
planting is not recommended.
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstrcemia indica), a native of India, frequently
planted throughout the coastal region of the Southern States, is a slender
tree with several stems from the same root, and short, f astigiate branches,
forming an oblong crown. It reaches a height of 35 to 46 feet and the
cluster of stems attain a diameter of 12 to 24 inches, each stem being from
6 to 8 inches through. The smooth bark is russet or occasionally olive
brown and the stems are more or less fluted. The small, thin, dark green
foliage appears late in spring and turns crimson in early autumn. The
flowers, of a deep rich crimson, pink or pure white, according to the horti-
cultural variety, are borne in abundance during the summer months, the
flowering period being quite extended.
The root system, while rather deeply seated, is compact and young
plants can be easily transplanted. When trees become too tall or spread-
ing, they can be either topped or trimmed. The crape myrtle is free from
insects and diseases. It is easily propagated either from the seed or by
shoots which appear around the base of the stem.
One of our most gorgeous trees, it is scarcely adapted for general street
planting, but can advantageously be used for several blocks as an orna-
mental tree or for planting in parking strips or in alternation with stan-
dard shade trees, or along small avenues.
Evergreen Cherry or Mock Orange (Prunus caroliniana). — ^This
tree is a native of the coast but is hardy in this State as far west as Raleigh
and Charlotte. It is a small and short-lived evergreen tree attaining a
height of 20 to 35 feet and an age of 30 to 40 years. It has a short tnmk
60 SHADE TBEE8 FOE NORTH CAEOLINA.
with dark brown, cherry-like bark, which divides at a low height into many
rather wide-spreading branches which form a flattened crown. The beau-
tiful lustrous foliage ia evergreen, and during early spring is rendered
more attractive by a profusion of pale pink and white flowers, which have
a delicate fragrance. The fruit is inconspicuous.
The root system is shallow and rather compact, enabling trees to be
easily moved, but care must be taken to strip subjects of their foliage be-
fore removing. It stands pruning very well, producing numerous small
branches. While free from diseases, the wood of old trees decays rapidly
if exposed, and in the latitude of Raleigh and westward twigs are fre-
quently frost killed during severe winters. The evergreen cherry, in spite
of its small size, is one of the most desirable evergreen trees for street
planting on account of its attractive foliage and flowers. It is especially
suited for planting driveways and avenues in localities where it is desir-
able to use a smaller evergreen tree than the laurel oak. It can also be
advantageously used in alternation with standard shade trees to obtain
during the winter a bit of verdure on the streets. It is readily propagated
from seed. Trees should be spaced 25 feet when planted alone.
China Tree (Melia azedarach), an Asiatic tree extensively naturalized
in this State as far west as Salisbury, is a middle-sized tree of rapid
growth becoming 35 to 40 feet high and forming a broad, spreading
crown. The dark green, dense, finely divided foliage is scarcely less
attractive than the large panicles of extremely fragrant lilac flowers,
which appear in April and early May. While it is one of the latest trees
to put forth its foliage, its spring appearance as well as that during the
winter is rendered pleasing by the stout open twigging and large clusters
of lustrous yellow-brown berries. The wood is brittle and breaks badly
during storms and wounds must be promptly protected to preclude decay.
It endures heavy pruning and few trees are more easily transplanted. It
is readily propagated by seed.
While undesirable for planting along walks on account of its berries,
it can be advantageously used along parking strips in which there are no
walks, as well as an ornamental tree in parks and on private grounds.
While it has fallen into disfavor on account of its former use in ill-chosen
situations, there is no more attractive tree of its kind which can be planted
in the eastern two-thirds of this State.
Umbrella Tree (Melia azedarach umbracviifera) is a horticultural
variety of the China tree, and is propagated by grafting. A much
smaller tree than the China tree and with a shorter trunk, it forms a
broad, spreading umbrella-shaped crown with dense dark green foliage.
The short trunk divides into a number of even-sized, ascending branches
DESCRIPTION OP TREES SUITABLE POB PLANTING. 61
of the same length. It has the same aboricultural characteristics as its
type, but can be propagated only by grafts. Young stock can be procured
from nurserymen. A small and short-lived tree, it is well suited on ac-
count of its rapid growth, dense umbrage, unique and symmetrical crown,
for small avenues and narrow streets. It should be spaced 25 feet.
Yellowwood {Cladrastis lutea), a native of the mountains of this
State, is a slender, rather short-lived tree becoming 35 or 40 years of age
and reaching a height of 25 or 30 feet It forms a broad, vase- or fan-
shaped crown, with a thin canopy of light-green, compound, drooping
foliage. The bark is smooth and light gray on both trunk and branches.
The showy, pendant clusters of fragrant, white flowers, which are pro-
duced in profusion in May, are followed by small pods, which are long
persistent and add to its attractiveness during the deciduous season. It is
easily transplanted, stands pruning well and can be freely reproduced from
seed. It should be spaced 30 feet.
One of the most desirable ornamental trees for street planting in this
State on account of its clean foliage, slender, upright habit, it has how-
ever never been used as a street tree and only in the most limited way for
ornamental planting. While not so large as either yeUow locust or Ken-
tucky coffee tree, it is far more desirable than the former on account of
its greater symmetry and better health and more so than the latter on
account of the shape of its crown and the more uniform density of its
canopy.
Chestnut {Castanea dentata). — This native tree makes one of the
most desirable large-sized shade trees that can be used in the western
third of this State, making rapid growth especially in youth and attain-
ing a great age. The slightly tapering trunk with smooth dark gray bark
in youth and furrowed bark in old specimens is excurrent in young trees,
forming an oval crown which gradually becomes very broad and spreading.
It prefers a well-drained, loamy soil of good quality. It is very easily
transplanted and no American tree can endure as vigorous pruning in old*
specimens as the chestnut. It stands storms well and is free from leaf
diseases, but the wood of the trunk is attacked by borers, which, however,
seldom injure its vitality and the bark is sometimes aflEected by a fungus
which kills the tree, especially below 2000 feet elevation. The foliage is
dense and dark green; the flowers in dense white spikes appear in June
and July, and the fruit, in prickly burrs, ripens and falla in September.
The chestnut should be spaced not less than 40 feet. See PI. IX.
On account of its large prickly burrs and ill-scented flowers the chest-
nut is not suitable for planting on streets very close to dwellings or to
overhang sidewalks. It makes a desirable tree, however, for central
62 SHADE THEES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
planting in streets, for bordering driveways, for parks, and especially for
roadsides.
Beech (Fagus) is a common native tree which might with advantage
be occasionally substituted for southern maple in the eastern or for sugar
maple in the western portion of the State, when it is desired to secure a
dense shade. While the growth is not so rapid as that of the maple, it is
satisfactory and its smooth, gray bark, net-work of finely divided flexuous
twigs, make it very attractive in the winter. It is somewhat more exact-
ing in regard to soil than the maples and has a superficial root system,
which is very extensive. It stands transplanting well, however, and is
very tolerant of the knife. Its tendency is to branch low, which must be
regulated, and it forms a broad, spreading crown of dense bright-green
foliage. There are varieties with brown-purple foliage. It is, however,
better suited for the lawn than roadside planting. Trees should be spaced
35 feet.
Hop Hornbeam {Carpimis caroliniana), a native tree of small size
and compact crown with elm-like foliage and bark, is seldom more than 20
feet in height and reaches an age of 40 or 60 years. The growth is slow,
especially in mature trees, but old trees maintain their soundness and
health for a great many years. The trunk is rather long for so small a
tree and the naturally broadly oval, symmetrical crown makes a dense
shade. It is readily transplanted and, when necessary, stands pruning
well. * It is easily propagated from seed, but seedlings must be raisfed un-
der light shade. Trees should be spaced 20 feet. On account of the com-
pact habit, small size, health, and the slow growth of old specimens, it is
a most desirable tree for planting narrow walks and streets, the trees
requiring no trimming for many years.
Oaks (Querctis). — The oaks form in this State, and in fact in the
other Southern States, the largest and most important group of native
shade trees, there being in this State alone fifteen species which make
•admirable shade trees, all of which are used in some portion of the State
to a greater or less extent for that purpose. The water oak section, includ-
ing the water, laurel, shingle and willotr oaks, probably furnishes the
species which do best in the eastern and middle portions of the State, al-
though several of the white oaks and some of the red oaks do extremely
well there also. Only one water oak is native to the western portion of
the State, the shingle oak, which is not so satisfactory as many of the red
oaks and white oaks of that region.
With few exceptions, the oaks attain large sizes as shade trees, several of
them attaining the largest size of any shade trees we have. They are of
rapid growth, especially in youth, have clean foliage, are readily trans-
N. C GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. l6. PLATE IX
J^^^^^
1
iff
air
:;'Sfe.
A FINELY DEVELOPED CHESTNUT TREE IN FLOWER, ONE OF THE MOST DESIRABLE OF THE LARGE-SIZED TREES FUR WESTERN NORTH
CAROLINA. (courtesy OF U. S. FOREST SERVICE.)
DESCRIPTION OF TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 63
planted, stand pruning well, are not very subject to decay, while some
species are resistant, and have in fact only one objectionable quality, that
of their nuts, which in those species having large fruit renders them imde-
sirable for use along paved walks on account of the attendaiit danger.
White oaks include the white oak, post oak, chestnut oak and overcup oak.
Red oaks include red oak, black oak, Spanish oak, scarlet oak and pin oak.
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) is one of the largest of the native oaks
and is well adapted for planting as far west as Baleigh and Charlotte.
Its short, stout, black-barked trunk divides at a low height into several
very wide-spreading, nearly horizontal branches which form in old speci-
mens an imposing crown of great extent. The small, dark green, persist-
ent foliage casts a moderately dense shade. In the eastern portion of the
State, and especially in the southeastern, the trees are often festooned
with pendant streamers of gray moss. Trees are very free from diseases
and the wood is so hard and tough that in spite of the stretch of its limbs,
they are seldom broken by storms.
The root system is rather wide-spreading and shallow and a sandy soil
is most congenial for its rapid development, fast growth being made even
to an advanced age on loose soils of moderate fertility, abundantly sup-
plied with lime and organic matter. Even old trees endure heavy prun-
ing. Young plants are easily secured from seed which are borne in abun-
dance. Trees should be spaced not less than 60 feet:
The live oak is not adapted for narrow streets on account of the enor-
mous spread of its crown, but it can be used with imposing effect for mid-
dle planting, Specially on broad streets, as has been done at Southport,
and less advantageously for lateral planting along broad walks. Since
the growth of the crown is so largely lateral, its dignity of proportion can
only be secured where it is afforded ample space for growth and this
renders it an even more desirable tree for parks and lawns of large size
than for streets. It is also well adapted for roadside planting, but not
adjacent to fields.
Laurel Oak (Quercus laurifolia), a native of the coast, is the most
extensively planted shade tree in the coastal towns. This is a slender tree,
with rough gray bark, a partially excurrent trunk,, and many small,
spreading and ascending branches and branchlets, forming an oval or
broadly oval crown. It attains a height of 50 to 60 feet and an age of
more than 50 years. The twigging is finely divided, flexuous and grace-
ful, and the dark green, shining, nearly evergreen foliage casts a dense
shade. While the acorns are borne in abundance, on account of their
small size, they are not objectionable. Its semi-evergreen character com-
pensates for the tardiness with which its spring verdure appears. Its
64 SHADE TEBES FOR NORTH CAROLINA,
rather shallow, fibrous root system develops rapidly on moist, light soils,
but it makes satisfactory growth on heavy soils, if not too dry. None of
the oaks root with more ease or can be more heavily pruned. It is free
from leaf diseases, but unless the exposed heart wood is protected after
pruning, it is rapidly attacked by species of hydnum and other wood-
destroying fungi which in the moist climate of the coast rapidly skeleton-
ize old trees. Seedlings are easily propagated. Trees should be spaced
40 feet.
The laurel oak, which is popularly confused with the water oak, is the
most desirable shade tree for the streets of cities and towns, as well as for
parks in the eastern half of the State, especially where it is afforded the
favorable condition of a loose, moist soil. In planting it, the young sub-
ject is usually heavily topped, being set out as a mere pole (PI. V, A)
which tends to destroy its naturally oval crown and produce a flattened,
spreading one, which is often misshapen by the formation of several lead-
ers (PI. IV, B). The large, exposed surface where young specimens are
topped frequently fails to heal over and is the seat of the entrance of
many stemi-destroying diseases. This tree is largely utilized in Wilming-
ton and New Bern.
Water Oak {Quercus nigra) grows in lowlands and open uplands from
Morganton and Salisbury eastward, and is usually a common tree in such
situations. It is a small or middle-sized tree with a short stem and
roughened gray bark, and with a broadly oval or depressed globose crown
formed of numerous, slender, sinuous spreading or horizontal branches.
It makes a very rapid growth in youth, early acquiring a desirable size
for a shade tree, and reaches an age of from 50 to 60 years.
The water oak grows well on stiff, dry upland soils, although its pref-
erence is for looser and moister soils. Transplanted specimens root easily
and grow freely. It stands pruning very well and yoimg specimens, when
permanently set, are usually cut back to a mere stem, entirely destroying
the leader and producing a much flattened crown. The foliage bears a
general resemblance to that of the laurel oak, but it is of a duller green
color, somewhat larger and is usually entirely deciduous, exceptional
specimens only retaining a few green leaves on protected or vigorous
shoots. It is less regular in form than the laurel oak, a smaller tree and
one better adapted for narrow streets and for dry and heavy soils and for
this reason better suited for the middle portion of the State. It is simi-
lar to it in arboricultural characters. Trees should be spaced 30 feet.
Willow Oak {Quercus phellos) is common throughout the middle por-
tion of the State and occurs to a less extent in the eastern portion. It is
a slender tree, of very rapid growth, especially in youth and well sue-
DESCRIPTION OP TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 65
tained when past middle age, reaching a large size, 60 to 80 feet in height
and attaining an advanced age. The trunk, covered with rough, nearly
black bark, is excurrent in young specimens, which have a conical crown
formed of slender, rather short dropping and spreading branches. In
old trees the trunk usually branches towards the top and the crown be-
comes more oval and round topped, but the sweeping habit of the slender
lower branches is persistent. The twigging is slender and graceful. The
foliage is small, bright green, willow-like, whence the name, and casts a
deep shade. While more rapid growth is made on good soils, it yet does
well on close dry ones. It roots very easily, which enables large specimens
to be transplanted in spite of its rather deeply seated roots. It recovers
rapidly from very heavy pruning even when old and so readily in young
specimens that even after heavy topping a normal leader is usually at
once developed. Care should always be taken, however, to prevent the
formation of false leaders which will destroy the crown^s symmetry.
Trees should be spaced 40 feet.
On account of its erect shape and pleasing foliage, rapid healthy
growth and adaptability to heavy, clay soils, the willow oak makes one of
the most desirable shade trees for the middle portion of the State, and is
extensively planted in several towns. Tryon and Church streets in Char-
lotte, which are planted with this tree, deserve to rank among the most
beautiful in the State.
Shingle Oak (Quercus imbricaria), a small tree growing along
streams in many portions of the mountains, has a habit much like that of
the water oak, and makes a small but desirable tree for street planting in
the western portion of the State. It is the smallest oak of that region
which is suitable for a shade tree. It seldom reaches a height of more
than 30 feet and requires a spacing of not less than 25 feet.
White Oak {Quercus Ma), the most common tree throughout the
State, growing on all classes of soils, is of slow growth, although the rate
is well sustained to an advanced age, reaching a very large size, from 70
to 100 feet high, and becoming more than a century old. While the
trunk is excurrent in young specimens, it gradually branches after pass-
ing middle age, the shape of the crown changing from conical in early
youth to depressed globose in age, with long wide-spreading or horizontal
branches. While the twigging is not so abundant or finely divided as it
is in the water oaks, it is more so than in any other white oak or any of
the red oaks. The leaves, which appear rather late in April after the deli-
cate pale yellowish-green flowers, are, when unfolding, of a soft silvery
green tinged with rose. The dense bright green, mature foliage droops
from the ends of the twigs and becomes in late autumn dark crimson and
66 6HADB TREES FOB NORTH CAROLINA.
red, falling tardily, many leaves on the lower branches persisting through
the winter. The white oak is easily transplanted and stands pruning
better than any of the large red and white oaks, except the swamp chest-
nut oak. The foliage is clean and free from disease and it maintains its
health and vigor to an advanced age. Trees should be spaced not less
than 80 feet, if unrestricted growth is to be permitted.
On account of its slow growth in youth and very large size and the
wide-spreading crown of old specimens, the white oak is not an entirely
satisfactory tree for general street planting, although if used with discre-
tion, it has its place and will amply justify the time required for it to
attain its perfection. It is bordering wide avenues and in parks or on
grounds of ample extent where its majesties crown and massive trunk can
attain their full proportions that the white oak shows to fullest advantage.
Swamp Chestnut Oak {Quercus michauxii), frequently found along
streams and in swamps east of Salisbury, is a tree of scarcely less size and
dignity than the white oak and is of far more rapid growth, especially in
youth.
The foliage, while larger than that of the former and a slightly lighter
green, droops from the twigs in the same manner and colors in autumn
even more brilliantly. The branchlets are stouter and the twigging less
abundant than in the white oak, and in favored localities the height and
spread of the crown equal the dimensions of the white oak. Its pref-
erence is for a moist, loose soil, and abundant root room, but even on
heavy dry clays it makes more rapid growth in youth than the white oak.
The acorns are very large and occasionally are borne in great abundance,
which is a drawback to planting beside paved walks. For middle parking
strips, wide avenues or roadside planting, it is among the most desirable
species. It is easily propagated from seed and stands vigorous pruning
better than any other of the large white or red oaks.
Northern Red Oak {Quercus rubra) is a common tree in the moun-
tains of this State and frequent in cool hollows as far east as Raleigh and
Charlotte.
This tree scarcely seems to be desirable east of Morganton. In the
mountains, however, where it passes under the Ux^al names of water and
mountain oal\ it should be considered among the choicest oaks. It
attains a very large size, making rapid growth to quite an advanced age,
and while there are no records of cultivated specimens in this State
more than 30 years old, it reaches as a forest tree an age of more than
t?00 years, and a height of more than 100 feet with a crown spread ex-
cooiling 60 feot, and it can reasonably be expected that in favored loca-
tions the red oak will reach propi^rtions in the western part of this State
DESCRIPTION OF TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 67
nearly equal to those of the white oak in the midland counties. The
twigging is rather coarse, angular and open, and the ample foliage, of a
pleasing dark bluish green, which in autumn becomes dull red. Trees
root easily and stand pruning well. Both foliage and trunk are free from
diseases. The large acorns, however, are some objection to street plant-
ing. The trees should be spaced 60 feet.
SoARLET Oak {Quercus coccinea), common on heavy upland soils from
Haleigh westward, is a slender tree with light gray bark on the trunk
and branches, reaching a height of from 60 to 70 feet and an age of more
than 70 years. In young specimens and until well past middle age the
trunk is excurrent, and the numerous, slender, spreading, or slightly
drooping branches form an oval crown. With advancing age its excurrent
character is not so noticeable and the crown becomes of greater spread.
The branchlets are angled and the twigging is slender and well divided.
The tender green foliage of the scarlet oak is among the first to appear
of any of the larger trees, much preceding that of any of the other oaks.
When mature, it is of a bright glossy green and casts a moderately dense
shade. In autumn its brilliant crimson, which usually remains undulled,
renders the scarlet oak for several weeks one of the most conspicuous of
the trees. Occasional specimens remain green with here and there a leaf
or branch of vivid color until long after the frosts have deadened other
verdure. It is easily transplanted, though it does not root as quickly
nor always as successfully as the white oak, the red oak, or the Spanish
oak. It stands pruning well until very old. Acorns are borne in abun-
dance but they are not so large as those of the red oak and are not as ob-
jectionable along streets. Seedlings are easily raised. Trees should be
spaced 45 feet. Scarlet oak is known throughout this State by the names
of pin oak or Spanish oak.
On account of its clean trunk, glo&sy foliage, brilliant autumnal color-
ing and the lateness with which it holds its leaves, the scarlet oak is one
of the most desirable, if not the most desirable, red oak for a street tree,
and while it is but little planted, there is no reason why it should not be
extensively used.
Blaok Oak (Quercus velutina)ia found throughout the State and is a
large and rapid-growing tree with habit and foliage quite similar to that
of the red oak in most respects, but inferior to the red oak for planting
west of Salisbury. Many of the original large trees in the groves of
public grounds, etc., in the middle portion of the State are of this spe-
cies. With so many other choicer species from which to make selection,
the black oak has little to commend it for general planting. The largest
and tallest trees on the capitol grounds at Baleigh are black oaks.
68 SHADE TREES FOB NORTH CAROLINA.
Spanish Oak {Quercus digitata) is common in this State east of the
Blue Bidge, and is known in this State exclusively by the name of red
oak. It is a very large tree of rapid growth, attaining a height of 70 to
80 feet, and an age of more than 100 years. The trunk is stout and
covered with nearly black, rough bark, while the dome-shaped crown of
old specimens is of large dimensions. The ample foliage, dark blue-green
above and tawny beneath, is pendant in clusters from the tips of the twigs.
The leaves, like those of the black oak, are of an unattractive brownish-
green color when appearing in spring, as are also the flowers, and they
lack the autumnal brilliancy which characterizes the foliage of several of
the other species. While not extensively planted, there are many large
specimens to be seen on streets and on public grounds in middle and
eastern Carolina. Many of these, however, are original forest trees which
have been permitted to remain. While the general health of the tree is
good, its foliage frequently attracts a large caterpillar in great numbers
which detracts considerably from its value. It is of very rapid growth,
easily transplanted, and endures the heaviest pruning, even when of a
large size. Occasional trees are to be seen nearly 100 feet high and with
trunks 3 or 4 feet through. Several large specimens stand in the capitol
grounds at Raleigh. This tree is also known as southern red oak.
Pin Oak {Quercvs paliistris), a native of northeastern United States,
is a middle-sized tree with drooping lower branches forming a conical
crown in youth, which becomes oval in old age. When young the trunk
is excurrent but divides towards the top in old trees. The twigging is
fine and abundant, and the small, deeply lobed, bright green foliage is
extremely attractive. It makes a rather dense shade and its autumnal
coloring is nearly as brilliant as that of the scarlet oak. It is easily trans-
planted and stands pruning well and its general health is good. It is con-
sidered the most desirable oak for northern planting, and would undoubt-
edly be a favorite in the extreme western portion of this State. It re-
sembles in habit the willow oak and is in no way superior to that for use
where the willow oak will grow. A few have been planted in the western
portion of the State, to which region it is most suited, but has few if any
points of superiority over the scarlet oak.
Ginkgo is a Japanese tree, several specimens of which have already
been planted in the eastern portion of this State. It is a slender tree hav-
ing an excurrent stem covered with light brown bark. The crown is nar-
rowly or sometimes broadly conical, and rather loosely branched. The
small delicate fern-like foliage forms a thin canopy, only partially feath-
ering the stout branchlets. The orange fruit about half an inch in diame-
ter is often borne in abundance on large trees, and adds to their attract-
DESCRIPTION OP TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 69
iveness during the late fall ; the odor however makes it unpleasant when
planted near dwellings. The chief attraction the ginkgo has during the
winter is its conical crown and stout bright brown horizontal twigs, with
their short spur-like branchlets. It is readily transplanted but does not
stand pruning well and the leader should not be cut beyond the season^s
growth on account of the risk of destroying the shape of the crown. It is
easily propagated from seed which as well as young plants can be secured
from nurserymen.
There are few trees better suited for formal avenues than the ginkgo,
and while its use as a general street tree is restricted, it can be eflEectively
placed in central parking strips and on wide walks.
Sycamore (Platanus), a common native tree, is one of our largest
(becoming 70 to 80 feet in height), and most rapidly growing trees, form-
ing in youth a broadly pyramidal crown, which becomes massive and
dome-shaped in old specimens. The trimk is stout, tapering and excur-
rent until well past middle age, and is covered like the branches with pale
olive-brown and nearly white bark which peels in thin, irregular layers,
producing an attractive mottled appearance. The twigging is rather
abundant and slender, and the large leaves, dark gray green above and
whitened beneath, form a moderately dense canopy.
The sycamore roots extremely easy and large specimens are readily
transplanted ; and there is no other species forming an excurrent stem
which can be heavily topped when of large size and have the crown so
perfectly replaced as this. It prefers loose moist soils. The wood decays
rapidly on exposure and it is diflBcult to prevent large specimens from
forming hollows. In many portions of the United States its value as a
shade tree has been much lessened by a fungus which attacks the twigs.
So far, however, trees have not been thus injured in this State. It is
readily propagated both from seed and cuttings and deserves to rank as
one of our most valuable rapidly growing shade trees. The heavy, dusty
down which the leaves of young trees shed in the spring is considered to
render it undesirable for planting near schools, churches, etc. Trees
should be spaced 50 feet.
Oriental Plane (Platanus orientcUis) , a tree originally from Asia
Minor, is similar to the native sycamore, but grows less rapidly, has
leaves more deeply lobed and its petioles are conspicuously reddened. It
is, however, a tree of rapid growth and forms a straight, tapering trunk
and large pyramidal crown which gradually becomes rounded with age.
It stands pruning well and is easily transplanted. On account of its
freedom from the fungus which aflEects the foliage of the native species,
it is regarded in the northeastern States as a more desirable tree. It has
70 SHADE TREES FOE NOETH CAROLINA.
been extensively utilized on the streets of Biltmore in this State, where it
has proven satisfactory, but so far it has shown no point of superiority
for general planting in this State above the native tree. Trees should be
spaced 60 feet.
Poplars (Poptdtis) form a large group of extremely rapid growing
but comparatively short-lived trees. Most of them have symmetrical,
conical crowns and deltoid, tremulous foliage. While very desirable
where it is necessary to secure quick shade either on streets, for screening
or for other purposes, few of them are suitable for use as permanent trees
for general street planting. The native species are known as cottonwoods,
Carolina, or necklace poplars, and while they have several minor diflfer-
ences, they agree in the general conical shape of the long crown and ex-
tremely rapid growth. For deep sandy lands, for most part destitute of
tree growth, the Carolina poplar serves a good purpose, as in Moore
County, at Southern Pines and other points. All the species root ex-
tremely easy and can be readily propagated from cuttings, or layers, as
well as from seed, except the Lombardy, which does not produce seed in
this country.
Lombardy Poplar (Populus nigra Ualica), a tree with a short trunk,
narrowly conical crown and erect branches, is well known in North Caro-
lina. It is longer lived than many other species of poplar, and on moist
soil attains a height of more than 80 feet, and trees of more than 100
feet are recorded. The leaves protrude comparatively early, and last later
in autumn than those of other poplars. It is effectively used for a certain
class of planting, especially where it is desirable to secure a quick shade,
since the growth is extremely rapid. While it does better on moist soils
than on dry ones, it will grow in any portion of this State from the coast
to the high mountains. It is propagated only from suckers or cuttings
and the trees should be spaced 15 feet apart (PL X).
BoLLE Poplar {Populus alba bolleana), has the same fastigiate habit
as the Lombardy poplar and is more desirable than that tree on account of
its freedom from suckers, although its leaves appear about a week later
than those of the Lombardy. It is propagated only by layers and cut-
tings. If planted at all in this State, it is only sparingly. Plants can be
secured from reliable nurserymen.
Balsam Poplar {Populus hahamifera) forms a narrow, pyramidal
crown with ascending branches and stout open twiggage. The large,
bright green heart-shaped leaves diffuse a fragrant balsamic odor as they
unfold in late spring. The buds are large and glossy, resinous and frag-
rant. It grows well on wet soils and is suitable for planting, especially
along roads following the banks of streams, throughout the western por-
N. C. GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY
BULLETIN NO. l6. PLATE X
ROWS OF LOMBARDY POPLARS WITH NARROWLY CONICAL CROWNS AND ERECT BRANCHES.
IT CAN BE EFFECTIVELY USED FOR A CERTAIN CLASS OF PLANTING, ESPECIALLY WHERE
IT IS DESIRABLE TO SECURE A QUICK SHADE, SINCE THE GROWTH IS EXTREMELY RAPID.
DESOBIPTION OP TREES SUITABLE FOR PLANTING. 71
tion of the State. Trees are readily propagated from enckers or cuttingB
which form an extensive though shallow root system. Trees should be
spaced 30 feet.
Neoklaoe Poplar (PoptUvs momlifera) is a tree indigenous to our
swamps but now in general cultivation around towns. It makes even on
poor soils a large tree 70 or more feet in height, with a short trunk and
very large, narrowly conical crown. The growth is extremely rapid,
trees frequently attaining a height of 30 feet in ten years from a cutting.
The trunk is excurrent and its bark, except at the base, where nearly
black, is a pale gray as well as that on the rather numerous ascending
branches. The large deltoid foliage appears very late, the trees being
naked except for the fruit catkins when all other trees are green and falls
correspondingly early in autumn, after turning a dull brown. In order
to avoid the objectionable cotton floats which bear the seed, only the male
or pistillate form should be planted. Easily propagated by cuttings.
Carolina Poplar (Popvius deltoides) is a native tree, frequently
planted. Although smaller than the preceding, it is similar in habit and
cultural characters. The mobile leaves are smaller and appear two weeks
earlier in the spring, which adds to its desirability. In spite of their
large crowns, both species cast a light shade. The foliage begins falling
early in September and the trees are frequently entirely bare before other
species have begun shedding. They early reach maturity, usually within
twenty-five years, and decline with great rapidity. Both species endure
heavy pollarding, but it is apt to injure the symmetry of the crown. We
have no other trees which will attain the same she in so short a time, and
the chief point in their favor is their extremely rapid growth enabling
shade to be secured in a few years.
Golden-bark Willow (Salix aiba vitellina) is one of the most desira-
ble and rapid growing willows. It forms a broad, spreading crown and
has an abundance of slender, glossy, deep green foliage. In winter it is
especially attractive on account of its bright yellow-brown barked branches
and dense mass of slender, bright colored twigs. There are few very rapid
growing trees which would be more desirable for moist soils in the moun-
tains of this State. It is rather short-lived, however, and will probably
not become older than 40 years. It stands heavy pollarding and can be
readily raised from cuttings.
Our native willow does not make a desirable shade tree, although it is
sometimes planted, and the same is true of the weeping willow, which
is suitable only for lawns or for planting along river roads and water
fronts.
72 SHADE TREES FOR NORTH CAROLINA.
TREES SUITABLE FOR DRY SOILS.
Of the trees described above the following will be found among the
beet growers on very dry soils such as sand-hills : Cottonwood, Carolina
Poplar, Lombardy Poplar, Russian Mulberry, Water Oak, Willow Oak,
Live Oak, Olive, Magnolia, Mockorange, Pecan and Spanish Oak (South-
ern Red Oak). In the extreme southeastern portion of the State, near
the coast, the Palmetto can probably be grown, but it will be more of an
ornamental tree than a shade tree.
TREES SUITABLE FOR WET SOILS.
On cold, wet or poorly-drained soils, such as pipe-clay bottoms and
swampy land, the following trees Will be found the most satisfactory:
Red Maple, Swamp Ash, Pin Oak, Laurel Oak, the Gums and Cypress.
PUBLICATIONS
or THE
NORTH CAROLINA GEOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC SURVEY.
BULLETINS.
1. Iron Ores of North Carolina, by Henry B. C. Nitze, 1893. 8", 239 pp.. 20
pL, and map. Postage 10 cents,
2. Building and Ornamental Stones In North Carolina, by T. L. Watson and
F. B. Laney in collaboration with George P. Merrill, 1906. 8"*, 283 pp., 32 pi.,
2 figs. Postage 25 cents. Cloth-bound copy 30 cents extra,
3. Gold Deposits in North Carolina, by Henry B. C. Nitze and George B.
Hanna, 1896. 8°, 196 pp., 14 pL, and map. Out of print
4. Road Material and Road Construction in North Carolina, by J. A. Holmes
and William Cain, 1893. 8°, 88 pp. Out of print,
6. The Forests, Forest Lands and Forest Products of Eastern North Caro-
lina, by W. W. Ashe, 1894. 8'', 128 pp., 5 pi. Postage 5 cents,
6. The Timber Trees of North Carolina, by Gifford Pinchot and W. W. Ashe,
1897. 8°, 227 pp., 22 pi. Postage JO cents,
7. Forest Fires: Their Destructive Work, Causes and Prevention, by W. W.
Ashe, 1895. 8**, 66 pp., 1 pi. Postage 5 cents.
8. Water-powers in North Carolina, by George F. Swain, Joseph A. Holmes
and E. W. Myers, 1899. 8**, 362 pp., 16 pi. Postage 16 cents,
9. Monazite and Monazite Deposits in North Carolina, by Henry B. C. Nitze,
1895. S"*, 47 pp., 5 pi. Postage 4 cents,
10. Gold Mining in North Carolina and other Appalachian States, by Henry
B. C. NiUe and A. J. Wilklns, 1897. S"*, 164 pp., 10 pi. Postage 10 cents,
11. Corundum and the Basic Magnesian Rocks of Western North Carolina,
by J. Yolney Lewis, 1895. 8**, 107 pp., 6 pi. Postage 4 cents,
12. History of the Gems Found In North Carolina, by Greorge Frederick
Kunz, 1907. 8'', 60 pp., 15 pi. Postage 8 cents. Cloth-bound copy 30 cents
extra.
13. Clay Deposits and Clay Industries in North Carolina, by Heinrich Ries,
1897. 8**, 157 pp., 12 pi. Postage 10 cents.
14. The Cultivation of the Diamond-back Terrapin, by R. E. Coker, 1906.
8°, 67 pp., 23 pi., 2 figs. Postage 6 cents,
15. Experiments in Oyster Culture in Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, by
Robert E. Coker, 1907. 8°, 74 pp., 17 pi., 11 figs. Postage 6 cents.
16. Shade Trees for North Carolina, by W. W. Ashe, 1908. 8**, 74 pp., 10 pi.,
16 figs. Postage 6 cents.
17. Terracing of Farm Lands, by W. W. Ashe, 1908. 8**, 38 pp., 6 pi., 2 figs.
Postage 4 cents,
18. A List of Elevations in North Carolina, by Joseph Hyde Pratt In pre-
paration.
19. The Tin Deposits of the Carolinas, by Joseph Hyde Pratt and Douglass
B. Sterrett, 1905. 8°, 64 pp., 8 figs. Postage 4 cents,
20. The Loblolly Pine in Eastern North Carolina, by W. W. Ashe. In prepa-
ration.
74 LIST OF PUBLICATIONS.
ECONOMIC PAPEB8.
1. The Maple-Sugar Industry In Western North Carolina, by W. W. Ashe,
1897. 8*", 34 pp. Postage 2 cenU,
2. Recent Road Legislation in North Carolina, by J. A. Holmes. Out of
print,
3. Talc and Pyrophyllite Deposits In North Carolina, by Joseph Hyde Pratt,
1900. %"*, 29 pp., 2 maps. Postage 2 cetits,
4. The Mining Industry in North Carolina During 1900, by Joseph Hyde
Pratt, 1901. S°, 36 pp., and map. Postage 2 cents,
5. Road Laws of North Carolina, by J. A. Holmes. Out of print,
6. The Mining Industry in North Carolina During 1901, by Joseph Hyde
Pratt, 1902. 8"*, 102 pp. Postage 4 cents,
7. Mining Industry in North Carolina During 1902, by Joseph Hyde Pratt,
1903. 8**, 27 pp. Postage 2 cents.
8. The Mining Industry in North Carolina During 1903, by Joseph Hyde
Pratt, 1904. 8°, 74 pp. Postage 4 cents.
9. The Mining Industry in North Carolina During 1904, by Joseph Hyde
Pratt, 1905. 8**, 95 pp. Postage 4 cents,
10. Oyster Culture in North Carolina, by Robert E. Coker, 1905. 8**, 39 pp.
Postage 2 cents.
11. The Mining Industry in North Carolina During 1905, by Joseph Hyde
Pratt, 1906. 8'', 95 pp. Postage 4 cents,
12. Inyestigatiohs Relative to the Shad Fisheries of North Carolina, by John
N. Cobb, 1906. 8*^, 74 pp., 8 maps. Postage G cents.
13. Report of Committee on Fisheries tn North Carolina. Compiled by
Joseph Hyde Pratt, 1906. 8*", 78 pp. . Postage 4 cents,
14. The Mining Industry in North Carolina During 1906, by Jospeh Hyde
Pratt, 1907. 8*', 144 pp., 20 pi., and 5 flgs. Postage 10 cents,
15. The Mining Industry in North Carolina During 1907, by Joseph Hyde
Pratt In preparation.
VOLUMES.
Vol. 1. Corundum and the Basic Magnesian Rocks in Western North Caro*
Una, by Joseph Hyde Pratt and J. Volney Lewis, 1905. 8*", 464 pp., 44 pi.,
35 figs. Postage 32 cents, Clothrbound copy 30 cents extra.
Vol. II. Fishes of North Carolina, by H. M. Smith, 1907. 8°, 453 pp., 21 pi..
188 flgs. Postage 30 cents.
Vol. III. Miscellaneous Mineral Resources in North Carolina, by Joseph
Hyde Pratt. In preparation.
Samples of any mineral found in the State may be sent to the office of the
Geological and Economic Survey for identification, and the same will be clas-
sified free of charge. It must be understood, however, that no assays, ob
QUANTITATIVE DETEBMiNATioNs, WILL BE MADE. Samples should be In a lump
form if possible, and marked plainly on outside of package with name of
sender, post-office address, etc.; a letter should accompany sample and stamp
should be enclosed for reply.
These publications are mailed to libraries and to individuals who may
desire information on any of the special subjects named, free of charge, except
that in each case applicants for the reports should forward the amount of
postage needed, as indicated above, for mailing the bulletins desired, to the
State GeologUt, Chapel Hill, N. C
iminii
ill
3 2044 102 815 420
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