24 OCTOBER 1947, Page 18

In My Garden

In answer to many enquiries about the sumachs—there is the common sumach, with huge pinnate leaves that, as they wilt, but not before, assume brilliant hues of light red. The bush sends up frequent suckers. There is rhus cotinus, with the brownish, feathery flowers and small, neat leaves that turn a variety of ruddy colours about this date. This is from South Europe. Thirdly there is the American rhus cotinoides, with a bigger leaf that turns to a most brilliant red which stays put for a long period. It is hardy, but rather more susceptible to very hard frosts than cotinus. I have found it easily multiplied by layering ; and

think it the best of all autumnal shrubs. W. BEACH THOMAS.