The white Pyrus japonica of American gardens has a tinge of pink in it. By the following from the Garden, a pure white has appeared in England :

"A new white variety of Cedonia japonica now in full bloom in Messrs. Veitch's nursery at Coombe Wood, under the name of nivalis, is among the most chastely beautiful of early flowering shrubs. The flowers are identical with those of the ordinary kind, but are as white as driven snow, and it retains its purity throughout the flowering season, thereby differing in an important degree from the common white variety of Cydonia alba, which changes to a pinkish color by age. This variety nivalis is, like the original, a very free bloomer, and long shoots are perfect wreaths of white, so abundant are the blossoms. Beautiful as these snow-white flowers are on the bush, they seem to reveal additional beauty when cut and associated with a little greenery, and they last a considerable time in water and half-opened buds fully expand, though not such a pure white as those that expand in the open air. As a companion plant to the high colored varieties of the favorite Japanese Quince the plant under notice is recommended.

For wreath and other floral devices it is invaluable at this season."