Distinguishing characters: Its method of *branching* will characterize the tree at a glance. It develops a well-defined _main_ ascending _stem_ with numerous _drooping_ side _branches_ as in Fig. 63. The buds are very small and sharp pointed and the leaves are small as in Fig. 64. The bark is dark, firm, smooth and in close ridges. The acorn is small and carries a light brown, striped nut, wider than long and bitter. The cup is shallow, enclosing only the base of the nut. [Illustration: FIG. 63.--Pin Oaks in Winter.] Form and size: The pin oak is a medium-sized tree in comparison with other oaks. It develops a tall, straight trunk that tapers continuously through a pyramidal crown of low, drooping tender, branches. Range: Eastern North America. Soil and location: It requires a deep, rich, moist soil and grows naturally near swamps. Its roots are deep and spreading. The tree grows rapidly and is easily transplanted. Enemies: None of importance. Value for planting: The pin oak is an extremely graceful tree and is therefore extensively used for planting on lawns and on certain streets where the tree can find plenty of water and where conditions will permit its branches to droop low. Commercial value: The wood is heavy and hard but coarse grained and liable to check and warp. Its principal use is in the construction of houses and for shingles. [Illustration: FIG. 64.--Leaf and Fruit of Pin Oak.] CHESTNUT (_Castanea dentata_) Distinguishing characters: The *bark* in young trees is smooth and of a marked reddish-bronze color, but when the tree grows older, the bark breaks up into *diamond-shaped ridges*, sufficiently characteristic to distinguish the tree at a glance, see Fig. 65. A close examination of the _terminal twig_ will show _three ridges_ and _two grooves_ running down along the stem from the base of each leaf or leaf-scar. The twig has no true terminal bud. The fruit, a large, round *bur*, prickly without and hairy within and enclosing the familiar dark brown, sweet edible nuts is also a distinguishing mark of the tree. Leaf: The leaves are distinctly long and narrow. They are from 6 to 8 inches long. Form and size: The chestnut is a large tree with a massive trunk and broad spreading crown. The chestnut tree when cut, sprouts readily from the stump and therefore in places where the trees have once been cut, a group of two to six trees may be seen emerging from the old stump. [Illustration: FIG. 65.--Trunk of Chestnut Tree.] Range: Eastern United States. Soil and location: It will grow on rocky as well as on fertile soils and requires plenty of light.