Forsythia Viridissima

Forsythia Viridissima is another deciduous shrub that can withstand the fumes and smoke of towns. It grows with the greatest freedom in very vitiated atmospheres, each spring breaking out as fresh and green as if it were growing in a sheltered country garden. Of vigorous constitution, it grows freely, and flowers most profusely in the largest cities. Stiffish soil suits it well, but it is far from particular in that way, and stands hard trimming in of its shoots with impunity.

Forsythia Suspensa

Forsythia Suspensa is also suitable for planting in smoky localities, where it grows and flowers with perfect freedom. It is of more slender growth than the former, with variable leaves and long trailing shoots. The bell-shaped flowers are of a beautiful golden tint, and, being produced in early spring, are rendered all the more desirable. In several of the crowded parts of London, the For-sythias thrive in an almost remarkable manner and are to be specially recommended for planting in smoky towns.

Ligustrum Coriaceum

Ligustrum Coriaceum is a fitting companion to the last, so far at least as its powers of withstanding the effects of an impure atmosphere are concerned. Being an evergreen, it is peculiarly well suited for planting in the town garden, where it grows with great freedom. It is easily managed, not particular as regards soil, is readily increased, and bears trimming in with perfect impunity.

The Oval-leaved Privet (L. ovali-folium)

The Oval-leaved Privet (L. ovali-folium). - This is one of the very best shrubs for densely populated districts, and is valuable whether used in the shubbery or as a hedge plant. In London it may be ranked as a sub-evergreen, retaining its leaves in the most exposed situations till the new are produced in Spring, while in sheltered sites it is really an evergreen. Being cheap, readily transplanted, and succeeding well even in poor soils are additional recommendations.

The Japan Privet (L. japonicum)

The Japan Privet (L. japonicum) is also suitable for planting where soot and smoke abound. It grows about 4 ft. high, with broad, smooth, glossy-green leaves and large compound racemes of white, slightly fragrant flowers. The Common and Golden-leaved Privets also do well as town plants.

Aucuba Japonica

This well - known evergreen shrub is of great value for planting in urban districts, it being able to do battle with a more than ordinary amount of atmospheric impurities. For this reason it has been largely planted in town squares and gardens in the most crowded and densely populated parts. As an ornamental shrub, too, the Aucuba is well worthy of extensive culture, its fine, large, glossy and beautifully mottled leaves being at all times objects of admiration. It is easily raised from cuttings and grows with great freedom in any soil. In order to ensure fruit, both the male and female plants should be used.