of the maples, but for the beginner who does not wish to be burdened
with too many of these facts at one time, those just enumerated
will be found most certain and most easily followed.

[Illustration: FIG. 20.--Opposite Branching (Horsechestnut.)]


THE HORSECHESTNUT
(_Aesculus hippocastanum_)

Distinguishing characters: The *sticky* nature of the *terminal bud* and
its *large size* (about an inch long). The bud is dark brown in
color. See Fig. 20.

Leaf: Five to seven leaflets, usually seven. Fig. 21.

Form and size: Medium-sized tree, pyramidal head and coarse twigs.

Range: Europe and eastern United States.

Soil and location: Prefers a deep, rich soil.

Enemies: The leaves are the favorite food of caterpillars and are
subject to a blight which turns them brown prematurely. The trunk is
often attacked by a disease which causes the flow of a slimy
substance.

Value for planting: On account of its showy flowers, the horsechestnut
is a favorite for the park and lawn.