The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California

Shrubs And Trees

Throughout this book we have dealt with the factor of ultimate proportions in terms of approximation, with ample allowance for variation. We now take occasion to caution the novice again not to think of ultimate sizes in terms of fixed measurements. A shrub like Abelia grandiflora may grow from 2 to 5 feet high or more and, for instance, Styrax japonica, from 12 to more than 20 feet. It is not practicable to try to reduce this variable factor to hard and fast terms.

The novice may well be cautioned that statements of ultimate heights in handbooks like Rehder's Manual usually represent outside proportions attained by the materials in their natural environment, not those which they are likely to develop in gardens.
DIFFUSE EFFECTS
Note: • In summer only.
•• More markedly in old plants.
••• In winter and spring.