The great use of the Lombardy poplar, and other similar trees in composition, is to relieve or break into groups, large masses of wood. This it does very effectually, when its tall summit rises at intervals from among round-headed trees, forming pyramidal centres to groups where there was only a swelling and flowing outline. Formal rows, or groups of oblong-headed trees, however, are tiresome and monotonous to the last degree; a straight line of them being scarcely better in appearance than a tall, stiff, gigantic hedge. Examples of this can be easily found in many parts of the Union where the crude and formal taste of proprietors, by leading them to plant long lines of Lombardy poplars, has had the effect of destroying the beauty of many a fine prospect and building.
