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Clemson University 3 1604 013 348 703 ■^'iM&B IllfjJjiS Of Elbert h. Little. J: Frank IL % Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2013 http://archive.org/details/commontreesofpueOOIitt_0 COMMON TREES OF PUERTO RICO AND THE VIRGIN ISLANDS By ELBERT L. LITTLE, JR. Dendrologht, Division of Timber Management Research Forest Service, Washington, D.C. and FRANK H. WADSWORTH Director, Institute of Tropical Forestry Forest Service, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico AGRICULTURE HANDBOOK NO. 249 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOREST SERVICE WASHINGTON, D.C. 20250 July 1964 Library of Confess Catalog Card Number: Agr 64-50 For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office Washington, D.C. 20402 - Price $4.25 CONTENTS Page List of tree species with descriptions and illustrations iv Introduction 1 Previous work 2 Preparation of this book 2 Plan 3 Illustrations 3 Tree names 3 Tree descriptions 4 Wood and uses 5 Other uses 5 Propagation, growth, and other notes 5 Distribution 5 Related species 9 Explanation of botanical terms 9 Leaves 9 Flower clusters 9 Flowers 10 Fruits 10 How to use this book in tree identification 10 Statistical summary 11 Acknowledgments 11 Forests and forestry in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands 12 The virgin forests 12 The forests of today 14 Forest conservation 15 Literature cited 18 Special lists 19 Poisonous trees 19 Appearance and trunk 19 Colored sap or latex 19 Leaves 19 Flowers 19 Fruits 19 Uses 19 Planting lists 20 Key to families 21 Part 1 . Leaves alternate, simple 22 Part 2. Leaves alternate, compound 25 Part 3. Leaves opposite, simple 26 Part 4. Leaves opposite, compound 27 Tree species, descriptions and illustrations 28 Index of common and scientific names 529 in LIST OF TREE SPECIES WITH DESCRIPTIONS AND ILLUSTRATIONS Tree-fern family (Cyatheaceae) 1. Helecho gigante, tree-fern, Cyathea arborea (L.) J. E. Smith Yew family (Taxaceae) 2. Caobilla, podocarp, Podocarpus coriaceus L. C. Rich Grass family (Gramineae) 3. Bambu, common bamboo, Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. * Palm family (Palmae) 4. Corozo, prickly-palm, Puerto Rico acrocomia, Acrocomia media O. F. Cook 5. Palma de coyor, Aiphanes acanthophylla (Mart.) Biuret 6. Palma de coco, coconut, Cocos nucifera L. * 7. Palma de sierra, sierra palm, Euterpe globosa Gaertn 8. Palma de lluvia, Gaussia attenuata (O. F. Cook) Beccari 9. Palma real, royal palm, Puerto Rico royalpahn, Roystonea borinquena O. F. Cook 10. Palma de sombrero, Puerto Rico palmetto, Sabal causiarum (O. F. Cook) Beccari Casuarina family (Casuarinaceae*) " 11. Casuarina, Australian beef wood, horsetail casuarina, Casuarina equisetij ' lia L. * Pepper family (Piperaceae) 12. Higuillo, Piper aduncum L Chloranthus family (Chloranthaceae) 13. Azafran, Hedyosmum arborescens Sw Willow family (Salicaceae *) 14. Sauce, Humboldt willow, Salix humboldtiana Willd. * Elm family (Ulmaceae) 15. Palo de cabrilla, West Indies trema, Trema, lamarckiana (Roem. & Schult.) Blume.. 16. Guacimilla, false jacocalalu, Florida trema, Trema micrantha (L.) Blume Mulberry family (Moraceae) 17. Panapen, pana de pepitas, breadfruit, Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg* 1 8. Jaca, jackfruit, Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. * 19. Caucho, Central American rubber, castilla rubber, Castilla elastica Cervantes 20. Yagrumo hembra, trumpet-tree, Ceeropia peltata L 2 1 . Palo de goma, India-rubber fig, Ficus elastica Nois. * 22. Jagiiey bianco, shortleaf fig, Ficus laevigata Vahl 23. Laurel de la India, India-laurel fig, Ficus retusa L. * 24. Jagiiey Colorado, Ficus sintenisii Warb Buckwheat family (Polygonaceae) 25. Uvilla, doveplum, Coccoloba diversifolia Jacq 26. Moralon, Coccoloba pubescens L 27. Ortegon, Coccoloba swartzii Meisn 28. Uva de playa, seagrape, Coccoloba uvifera (L.) L 29. Calambrena, chicory-grape, Coccoloba venosa L 30. Triplaris, ant tree, Triplaris americana L.* Four-o'clock family (Nyctaginaceae) 3 1 . Corcho bobo, Pisonia albida (Heimerl) Britton 32. Corcho bianco, water mampoo, Pisonia subcordata Sw £ 33. Corcho, black mampoo, Torrubia jragrans (Dum.-Cours.) Standley £ Magnolia family (Magnoliaceae) 34. Jaguilla, Magnolia portoricensis Bello 35. Laurel sabino, Magnolia splendens Urban Annona family (Annonaceae) 36. Guanabana cimarrona, wild soursop, Annona montana Macfadyen , * * Exotic, or introduced. Species (or families) with scientific names followed by an asterisk are not native in Puer Rico and the Virgin Islands. IV Annona family — Continued Page 37. Guanabana, soursop, Annona muricata L.* 100 38. Corazon, custard-apple, Annona reticulata, L. * 102 39. Anon, sugar-apple, Annona squamosa L.* 104 40. Ilan-ilan, ylang-ylang, Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook. f. & Thorns.* 106 41. Haya minga, Guatteria blainii (Griseb.) Urban 108 Laurel family (Lauraceae) 110 42. Guajon, Beilschmiedia pendula (Sw.) Benth. & Hook, f 110 43. C an elilla, Licaria salicifolia (Sw.) Kosterm... 112 44. Palo de misanteco, Gulf licaria, Licaria triandra (Sw.) Kosterm 114 4f). Laurel avispillo, Jamaica nectandra, Nectandra coriacea (Sw.) Griseb 116 46. Canelon, Ocotea cuneata (Griseb.) Urban 118 47. Laurel espada, Ocotea floribunda (Sw.) Mez 120 48. Laurel geo, Ocotea leucoxylon (Sw.) Mez 122 49. Nuez moscada, Ocotea moschata (Meisn.) Mez 124 50. Nemoea, Ocotea spathulata Mez 126 51. Aguacate, avocado, Persea americana Mill.* 128 Hernandia family (Hernandiaceae) _ . 130 52. Mago, Hernandia sonora L 130 Caper family (Capparidaceae) _ 132 53. Burro prieto, Jamaica caper, Capparis cynophallophora L 132 Horseradish-tree family (Moringaceae*) 134 54. Reseda, horseradish-tree, Moringa oleifera Lam.*__. 134 Brunellia family (Brunelliaceae) . . 136 55. Palo bobo, Brunellia comocladifolia Humb. & Bonpl._ 136 Cunonia family (Cunoniaceae) _ 138 56. Oreganillo, Weinmannia pinnata L 138 Rose family (Rosaceae)_ _ 140 57. Icaquillo, Hirtella rugosa Pers 140 4 Legume family (Leguminosae) 142 I Mimosa subfamily (Mimosoideae; Mimosaceae)__ 142 58. Aroma, sweet acacia, Acacia farnesiana (L.) Willd.* 142 59. Peronlas, jumbie-bead, Adenanthera pavonina L.*_ 144 60. Acacia amarilla, tibet, lebbek, Albizia lebbek (L.) Benth.* 146 61. Albizia, tall albizia, Albizia procera (Roxb.) Benth.* 148 62. Guama, "sweetpea," Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd.-. 150 63. Guama venezolano, Inga auaternata Poepp. & Endl.*__ 152 64. Guaba, Inga vera Willd. _. 154 65. Zarcilla, tan tan, lead tree, Leucaena glauca (L.) Benth 156 66. Cojobana, Piptadenia peregrina (L.) Benth 158 67. Cojoba, Pithecellobium arboreum (L.) Urban 160 68. Guama" americano, guamuchil, Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth.* 162 69. Samdn, raintree, Pithecellobium saman (Jacq.) Benth.* 164 70. Bayahonda, mesquite, Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC* 166 Cassia subfamily (Caesalpinioideae ; Caesalpiniaceae) 168 71. Mariposa, butterfly bauhinia, Bauhinia monandra Kurz* 168 72. Canafistula, golden-shower, Cassia fistula L.* 170 73. Casia rosada, pink cassia, Cassia jauanica L.* 172 74. Casia de Siam, Siamese cassia, Cassia siamea Lam.* 174 75. Flamboyan, flamboyant-tree, Delonix regia (Bojer) Raf.* 176 76. Algarrobo, West-Indian-locust, courbaril, Hymenaea courbaril L 178 77. Palo de rayo, Jerusalem-thorn, Parkinsonia aculeata L.* 180 78. Flamboyan amarillo, yellow flamboyant, Peltophorum inerme (Roxb.) Naves* 182 79. Cobana negra, Stahlia monosperma (Tul.) Urban 184 80. Tamarindo, tamarind, Tamarindus indica L.*_ 186 Pea subfamily (Lotoideae ; Fabaceae) 188 81. Moca, cabbage angelin, Andira inermis (W. Wright) H. B. K 188 82. Bucare enano, machette, Erythrina berteroana Urban * 190 83. Bucare, swamp immortelle, Erythrina glauca Willd. *__ 192 84. Bucayo gigante, mountain immortelle, Erythrina poeppigiana (Walp.) O. F. Cook* 194 85. Mata-raton, mother-of -cocoa, Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Steud.*__ 196 86. Retama, Lonchocarpus latijolius (Willd.) H. B. K 198 87. Palo de matos, Ormosia krugii Urban 200 Pea subfamily — Continued Page 88. Tachuelo, fustic, Pictetia aculeata (Vahl) Urban 202 89. Pterocarpus, India padauk, Pterocarpus indicus Willd. * 204 90. Palo de polio, swamp bloodwood, Pterocarpus officinalis Jacq 206 9 1 . Baculo, agati, Sesbania grandiflora (L.) Pers. * 208 Coca family (Erythroxylaceae) 210 92. Indio, Erythroxylon areolatum L 210 Caltrop family (Zygophyllaceae) . 212 93. Guayacan, common lignumvitae, Guaiacum officinale L 212 94. Guayacan bianco, holywood lignumvitae, Guaiacum sanctum L 214 Rue family (Rutaceae) 216 95. Tea, sea amyris, Amyris elemifera L 216 96. Lim6n agrio, lime, Citrus aurantifolia (L.) Swingle* 218 97. Naranja agria, sour orange, Citrus aurantium L. * 220 98. Limon de cabro, lemon, Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f .* 222 99 . Toron j a , grapefruit , ( 'itrus paradisi M acf adyen * 224 100. China, sweet orange, Citrus sinensis Osbeck* 226 101 . Aceitillo, yellow-sanders, yellow-heart, Zanthoxylum flavum Vahl 228 102. Espino rubial, white-prickle, Martinique prickly-ash, Zanthoxylum martinicense (Lam.) DC 230 103. Palo rubio, yellow-prickle, yellow prickly-ash, Zanthoxylum monophyllum (Lam.) P. Wilson 1 232 Ailanthus family (Simaroubaceae) 234 104. Guarema, bitterbush, Picramnia pentandra Sw 234 Bursera family (Burseraceae) 236 105. Almacigo, turpentine-tree, gumbo-limbo, Bursera simaruba (L.) Sarg 236 106. Tabonuco, Dacryodes excelsea Vahl 238 107. Masa, Tetragastris balsamij'era (Sw.) Kuntze 240 Mahogany family (Meliaceae) 242 108. Cedro hembra, Spanish-cedar, Cedrela odorata L 242 109. Guaraguao, American muskwood, Guarea trichilioides L 244 110. Alelaila , chinaberry, Melia azedarach L. * 246 111. Caoba hondurena, Honduras mahogany, Swietenia macrophylla King* 248 112. Caoba dominicana, Dominican mahogany, West Indies mahogany, Swietenia mahagoni Jacq.* 250 113. Tinacio, broomstick, Trichilia hirta L 252 1 14. Gaeta, Trichilia pallida Sw 254 Malpighia family (Malpighiaceae) 256 115. Maricao, Byrsonima coriacea (Sw.) DC 256 116. Maricao cimarron, Byrsonima crassifolia (L.) H. B. K 258 Milkwort family (Polygalaceae) 260 1 17. Violeta, violet-tree, Polygala cowellii (Britton) Blake 260 Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) 262 118. Achiotillo, Alchornea latifolia Sw 262 119. Palo de gallina, Alchorneopsis portoricensis Urban 264 120. Sabinon, Croton poecilanthus Urban 266 121. Varital, Drypetes glauca Vahl 268 122. Rascaso, Euphorbia petiolaris Sims 270 123. Yaiti, oysterwood, Gy mnanthe s lucida Sw 272 124. Manzanillo, manchineel, Hippomane mancinella L 274i 125. Molinillo, sandbox, hura, Hura crepitans L 276 126. Cedro macho, Hyeronima clusioides (Tul.) Muell.-Arg 278^ 127. Grosella, Otaheite gooseberry- tree, Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels* 280 128. Millo, Phyllanthus nobilis (L. f.) Muell.-Arg 282 129. Tabaiba, Sapiirm laurocerasus Desf 284 Cashew family (Auacardiaceae) 286 130. Pajuil, cashew, Anacardium occidental L 28C 131 . Mango, Mangifera indica L. * 28? 132. Papayo, Florida poisontree, Metopitim toxijerum (L.) Krug & Urban 29( 1 33. Jobo de la India, ambarella, Spondias dulcis Parkinson * 29S 134. Jobo, hogplum, yellow mombin, Spondias mombin L 29-? 135. Ciruela del pais, purple mombin, Sp07idias purpurea L.* 29( VI Cyrilla family (Cyrillaceae) _ 298 136. Palo Colorado, swamp cyrilla, Cyrilla racemifiora L 298 Bladdernut family (Staphyleaceae) . . 300 137. Sauco cimarro'n, Turpinia paniculata Vent 300 Soapberry family (Sapindaceae) 302 138. Guara, Cupania americana L 302 139. Negra lora, Matayba domingensis (DC.) Radlk 304 140. Quenepa, kinep, Spanish-line, Melicoccus bijugatus Jacq. * 306 141. Jaboncillo, wingleaf soapberry, Sapindus saponaria L 308 142. Serrasuela, Thouinia portoricensis Radlk 310 143. Ceboruquillo, Thouinia striata Radlk 312 Sabia family (Sabiaceae) . 314 144 . Aguacatillo , Meliosma herbertii Rolf e 314 Buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae) _ 316 145. Abeyuelo, coffee colubrina, Colubrina arborescens (Mill.) Sarg 316 146. Mabi, soldierwood, Colubrina reclinata (L'Her.) Brongn __ 318 147. Bariaco, "ironwood," leadwood, Krugiodendron jerreum (Vahl) Urban 320 148. Cascarroya, Sarcomphalus reticulatus (Vahl) Urban 322 Elaeocarpus family (Elaeocarpaceae) 324 149. Motillo, Sloanea berteriana Choisy .__ 324 Mallow family (Malvaceae) 326 150. Emajagua, sea hibiscus, Hibiscus tiliaceus L. * 326 151. Maga, Montezuma speciossima Sesse & Moc 328 152. Emajaguilla, otaheita, portiatree, Thespesia populnea (L.) Soland.* 330 Bombax family (Bombacaceae) 332 153. Ceiba, silk-cotton-tree, Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn 332 154. Guano, balsa, Ochroma jiyamidale (Cav.) Urban 334 155. Garrocho, Quararibxa turbinate (Sw.) Poir 336 Chocolate family (Sterculiaceae) 338 156. Guacima, jacocalalu, Guazuma ulmijolia Lam __ 338 157. Anacagiiita, panama-tree, Sterculia apetala (Jacq.) Karst.* 340 158. Cacao, chocolate-tree, Theobrorna cacao L.* 342 Dillenia family (Dilleniaceae) __ . __ 344 159. Dilenia, India dillenia, Dillenia indica L.* 344 Tea family (Theaceae) _ _ 346 160. Maricao verde, Laplacea portoricensis (Krug & Urban) Dyer 346 Mangosteen family (Guttiferae) 348 161. Maria, santa-maria, Calophyllum brasiliense Camb .__ 348 162. Cupeillo, Clusia krugiana Urban 350 163. Cupey, wild-mammee, copey clusia, Clusia rosea Jacq 352 164. Mamey, mammee-apple, Mammea americana L 354 165. Palo de cruz, Rheedia portoricensis Urban 356 Anatto family (Bixaceae*) 358 166. Achiote, anatto, Bixa orellana L.* 358 Cochlospermum family (Cochlospermaceae*) _ _ 360 167. Rosa imperial, Brazilian-rose, cochlospermum, Cochlospermum vitifolium (Willd.) Spreng.* 360 Canella family (Canellaceae) . _ 362 168. Barbasco, canella, Canella winterana (L.) Gaertn 362 Flacourtia family (Flacourtiaceae) 364 169. Rabo raton, Casearia arborea (L. C. Rich.) Urban 364 170. Tostado, wild honey-tree, Casearia decandra Jacq 366 171. Palo bianco, wild-coffee, Casearia guianensis (Aubl.) Urban 368 172. Cafeillo, Casearia sylvestris Sw 370 173. Caracolillo, Homalium racemosum Jacq 372 Papaya family (Caricaceae *) 374 174. Lechosa, papaya, Carica papaya L. * 374 Cactus family (Cactaceae) 376 175. Sebucan, dildo, Cephalocereus royenii (L.) Britton & Rose 376 176. Tuna de petate, pricklypear, Opuntia rubescens Salm-Dyck 378 Mezereon family (Thymelaeaceae) _* 380 177. Majagua brava, Daphnopsis philippiana Krug & Urban 380 Loosestrife family (Lythraceae) _ 382 178. Reina de las flores, queen-of -flowers, Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers.* 382 Mangrove family (Rhizophoraceae) 384 179. Mangle Colorado, mangrove, JRhizophora mangle L 384 Combretum family (Combretaceae) 386 180. Granadillo, Buchenavia capitata (Vahl) Eichl 386 181. tJcar, gregre, oxhorn bucida, Bucida buceras L 388 182. Mangle bot6n, button-mangrove, Conocarpus erectus L 390 183. Mangle bianco, white-mangrove, Laguncularia racemosa (L.) Gaertn. f 392 184. Almendra, Indian-almond, Terminal la catappa L. * 394 Myrtle family (Myrtaceae) 396 185. Limoncillo, Calyptranthes krugii Kiaersk 396 186. Eucalipto, beakpod eucalyptus, Eucalyptus robusta J. E. Smith* 398 187. Guasabara, Eugenia aeruginea DC 400 188. Pomarrosa, rose-apple, Eugenia jambos L. * 402 189. Manzana malaya, Malay-apple, Eugenia malaccensis L.* 404 190. Hoja menuda, spiceberry eugenia, Eugenia rhombea (Berg) Krug & Urban 406 191. Guayabota, Eugenia stahlii (Kiaersk. ) Krug & Urban 408 192. Cieneguillo, Myrcia deflexa (Poir.) DC 410 193. Hoja menuda, Myrcia splendens (Sw.) DC 412 194. Malagueta, bay-rum-tree, Pimenta racemosa (Mill.) J. W. Moore 414 195. Guayaba, common guava, Psidium guajava L. * 416 Melastome family (Melastomataceae) 418 196. Jusillo, Calycogonium squamulosum Cogn 418 197. Camasey peludo, Heterotrichum cymosum (Wendl.) Urban 420 198. Camasey, Miconia prasina (Sw.) DC 422 199. Verdiseco, Tetrazygia elaeagnoides (Sw.) DC 424 Gmseng family (Araliaceae) 426 200. Polio* Dendropanax arboreus (L.) Decne. & Planch 426 201. Yagrumo macho, matchwood, Didymopanax morototoni (Aubl.) Decne. & Planch 428 Myrsine family (Myrsinaeeae) 430 * 202. Mameyuelo, Ardisia obovata Desv.-.. 430 203. Mantequero, Rapanea jerruginea (Ruiz & Pav.) Mez 432 204. Badula, Guiana rapanea, Rapanea guianensis Aubl 434 Sapodilla family (Sapotaceae) 436 205. Lechecillo, Chrysophyllum argenteum Jacq 436 206. Caimito, star-apple, Chrysophyllum cainito L 438 207. Caimitillo de perro, satinleaf, Chrysophyllum oliviforme L 440 208. Sanguinaria, wild mespel, willow bustic, Dipholis salicifolia (L.) A. DC 442 209. Ausubo, balata, Manilkara bidentata (A. DC.) Chev 444 210. Nispero, sapodilla, Manilkara zapota (L.) v. Royen* 446 211. Caimitillo, Micropholis chrysophylloides Pierre 448 212. Caimitillo verde, Micropholis garciniaefolia Pierre 450 213. Jacana, Pouteria -multi flora (A. DC.)Eyma .--.--.- 452 214. Tortugo amarillo, false-mastic, Sideroxylon foetidissimum Jacq 454 Sweetleaf family (Symplocaceae) 456 2 15. Aceituna blanca, candlewood, Symplocos martinicensis Jacq 456 Olive family (Oleaceae) ------- - - - 458' 216. Hueso bianco, Linociera domingensis (Lam.) Knobl 458 Dogbane family (Apocynaceae) 460 217. Aleli, milktree, Plumeria alba L 460 218. Frangipani, Plumeria rubra L. * 462 219. Palo amargo, bitter-ash, Rauvolfia nitida Jacq 464 Borage family (Boraginaceae) 466 220. Palo de vaca , pigeon-berry, Bourreria succulenta Jacq 466 221 . Capa prieto, capa, Cordia alliodora (Ruiz & Pav.) Oken 468 222. Mufieco, < '<>/■</ la borinquensix Urban _ 470 223. Capa Colorado, red manjack, Cordia nitida Vahl. 472 224. Moral, white manjack, Cordia sulcata DC 474 Vlll Verbena family (Verbenaceae) . — _ 476 225. Mangle prieto, black-mangrove, Avicennia nitida Jacq 476 226. Pendula de sierra , Citharexylum caudatum L 478 227. Pendula, pasture fiddlewood, Florida fiddlewood, Citharexylum jruticosum L.._ 480 228. Capa bianco, Petit ia dam ingensis Jacq 482 229. Teca , teak, Tectona grandis L. f . *_. 484 230. Higiierillo, white fiddlewood , Vitex divaricata Sw. _ _ 486 Nightshade family (Solanaceae) 488 23 1 . Tabacon , Solarium rugosum Dunal 488 Bignonia family (Bignoniaceae) 490 232. Higiiero, calabash-tree, common calabash-tree, Crescentia cujete L 490 233. Jacaranda, Jacaranda m imosifolia D. Don * 492 234. Tulipan africano, African tuliptree, Spathodea campanulata Beauv.* 494 235. Roble cimarron , Tabebuia haemantha (Bert.) DC 496 236. Roble bianco, "white-cedar," Tabebuia heterophylla (DC.) Britton 498 237 . Roble de sierra , Tabebuia rigida Urban 500 238. Roble amarillo, ginger-thomas, Tecoma stans (L.) H. B. K 502 Madder family (Rubiaceae) 504 239. Quina, Antirhea obtusifolia Urban 504 240. Cafe, coffee, Cojfea arabica L. * . 506 241. Albarillo, Caribbean princewood, Exostema caribaeum (Jacq.) Roem. & Schult — 508 242. Cafeillo, false-coffee, Faramea occidentalis (L.) A. Rich 510 243. Jagua, genipa, Genipa americana L 512 244. Palo de cucubano, "greenheart," roughleaf velvetseed, Guettarda seabra (L.) Vent 514 245. Cafeillo, Ixora ferrea (Jacq.) Benth 516 246. Morinda, painkiller, Morinda citrifolia L.* 518 247. Tintillo, box-briar, Randia aculeata L 520 248. Juan tomas, Rondeletia portoricensis Krug & Urban 522 249. Aquilon, Terebraria resinosa (Vahl) Sprague 524 Composite family (Compositae) 526 250. Carruzo, Clibadium erosum (Sw.) DC._. 526 a * ft ^ 5 "3 o 2. q i!| 2 a is ft cS "5 -u — 4> IS 7. 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In addition, several hundred tree species from other tropical lands around the world have been introduced into the islands because of showy flowers, handsome foliage, dense shade, valuable timber, delicious fruits, or other values. Naturally, there have been many requests for a reference book on this subject. Information about most trees of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands has not previously been assembled in nontechnical form, and drawings of some have never been pub- lished. Nor are technical botanical floras, forestry publications, and miscellaneous scientific refer- ences on this subject generally available. This book describes in detail 250 of the com- moner and more important native and exotic tree species, those most likely to be seen. Identifica- tion of each species is aided by a large drawing of the leaves, flowers, and fruit and a description that emphasizes the distinguishing characteristics. For further identification, 130 additional, related species are mentioned briefly and compared with those illustrated. Thus, 380 species from forest giants down to small trees are included. The primary purpose of this book, published also in Spanish {XI), is to answer for the people of these and nearby areas of the West Indies, both residents and tourists, the question: What tree is this? Having answered that, it aims to give the more important and interesting facts about the tree. It should be helpful to university students, teachers of high schools, and instructors in youth programs such as 4-H Clubs, Roy Scouts, and Girl Scouts. It should be a useful reference in extension and technical assistance programs, agri- cultural research, forestry, and for landowners, landscape architects, and gardeners. Foresters and forestry students in continental United States will find here the descriptions of many common timber trees of tropical America. For the rapidly increasing number of tourists from continental United States, this reference provides the tree names and answers questions. Public forests, both natural and managed, are easily accessible by paved highways. The Virgin Islands National Park contains large forest areas in St. John. Teachers, students, and all interested in nature can use this field guide in identification. This reference will be useful over somewhat larger areas in tropical America because most of the tree species figured are widely distributed. It will be of value also in the other West Indies and in countries bordering the Caribbean Sea not having similar publications. Also this book will be helpful within continental United Sfates. notably in southern Florida. More than half of the 250 species selected grow also in southern Florida. More than one-fourth, or 65, are in Check List of Native and Naturalized Trees of the United States (10) ; 42 as native, mostly in the Florida Keys or southern Florida main- land, and 23 as naturalized. Two more are shrubs in the United States, and the others are planted in southern Florida, although some in limited numbers. Because of their value and interest, 72 species of exotic or introduced trees mostly common through tropical America have been included. While the remaining 178 species illustrated are native in Puerto Rico, only 28 are confined or endemic there. According to their distribution, 101 of these are found also in the Virgin Islands, which have fewer tree species because of their smaller size and lower altitude; 148 are known in other West Indian islands; and 102 grow wild somewhere on the continent, such as in southern Florida, Mexico, Central America, or South America. Information presented in addition to that re- quired for identification assists the readers to know the tree better and to judge its suitability for tim- ber, shade, ornament, fruit, or other purposes. These notes include: (1) the size the tree at- tains at maturity; (2) whether evergreen or de- ciduous; (3) the normal shape of the crown; (4) the abundance, color, and fragrance of the flowers ; (5) the kind of fruit and whether edible or poisonous; (6) the usual period of flowering and fruiting; (7) a brief description of the wood and its uses; (8) other uses of the tree and its prod- ucts; (9) notes on propagation, growth rate, and site adaptability if available; (10) where the tree grows within Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands ; (11) the geographical distribution, including na- tive home if introduced; (12) other common names listed by country and language; and (13) related native tree species. It was not possible to include within one vol- ume an equal number of important though less common tree species. Several hundred additional tree species were recorded by Britton and Wilson (5) as introduced, mostly in small numbers or experimentally, such as in nurseries, experimental forests, arboreta, and gardens. A second volume is planned to describe and illustrate the remaining native tree species and widely planted exotics. PREVIOUS WORK Preparing this book has called for full use of the previous work of botanists and foresters and also for additional Held investigation. Puerto Kico and the Virgin Islands, discovered by Colum- bus, settled early, and both small and accessible, were among the first areas of tropical America to become well explored botanically. Principal pub- lications on the plants of these islands are listed in the bibliographies by Britton and Wilson (5) and Otero, Toro, and Pagan (32), the latter con- taining also a historical summary. The most valuable reference consulted is the de- scriptive flora of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Is- lands by Britton and Wilson (5), published in English in 1923-30. Earlier, in 1903-11, Urban (37) wrote a flora of Puerto Rico in Latin and German. In 1883-88 there was published in Puerto Rico an incomplete flora in Spanish by Stahl (35), afterwards reprinted in 1936-37. The Virgin Islands have been the subject of other floras, the earliest by Hans West in 1793. Another flora of the Virgin Islands by Eggers (8a) ap- peared in 1879. Britton (4) published a flora of the United States Virgin Islands in 1918, a year after their purchase from Denmark. Nearly a century ago, Jose Maria Fernandez (9, pp. 181-215) compiled a list of trees of Puerto Rico in his "Tratado cle la Arboricultura Cubana," published in Havana in 18G7. Entitled "Arbolado de Puerto-Rico," this annotated list contained about 175 trees ai-ranged by Spanish common names with scientific names for about 100. Intro- duced, as well as native, species and several shrubs were mentioned. There were notes on size, occur- rence, wood including specific gravity, and uses and also lists for special purposes. Shortly after Puerto Rico became a part of the United States in 1898, studies of the forests began with a report by Hill (13) in 1899 which described 16 important timbers. In 1903 the Luquillo Di- vision of the Caribbean National Forest, now the Luquillo Experimental Forest, was established from former Spanish crown lands by proclama- tion of President Theodore Roosevelt. A prelim- inary list of trees of the Luquillo region was pre- pared soon afterwards by Gifford (JO). Murphy (29), of the United States Forest Service, pub- lished a list of 292 tree species of Puerto Rico be- longing to 172 genera and 57 families, with notes on size, distribution, wood, and uses by W. D. Brush, Louis S. Murphy, and C. D. MelL Hold- ridge and Muiioz (16) described and illustrated seven poisonous trees in an article on the poisonous plants of Puerto Rico. In his manual on propaga- tion of trees and establishment of forest planta- tions, Gilormini (//) inserted a list of native and exotic trees and shrubs of Puerto Rico with both Spanish and scientific names. Much information about forest trees of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands is contained in articles in The Caribbean Forester and other publications by the Institute of Tropical Forestry. Longwood (22, 23) , of the United States Forest Service, made a special investigation of the woods of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean region, including about 70 spe- cies in this book. The agricultural experiment stations in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands have made additional studies of trees. Wolcott (40) tested the resistance of woods to attack by dry-wood termites. Winters and Almeyda (39) reported on the ornamental trees of Puerto Rico. Kennard and Winters (18) described and illustrated the common fruit trees in their publication on fruits and nuts. Poisonous plants of the United States Virgin Islands, sev- eral being trees, were described and figured by Oakes and Butcher (30). Other important references are mentioned below and listed under Literature Cited. Additional botanical floras and tree publications of various tropical countries, as well as taxonomic mono- graphs, have provided useful information for this book. PREPARATION OF THIS BOOK Preparation of an illustrated popular reference on the trees of Puerto Rico was one of the first projects undertaken when, in 1939, the United States Forest Service began forest research in Puerto Rico with the establishment of the Tropical Forest Experiment Station, now Institute of Trop- ical Forestry, in Rio Piedras. Leslie R. Hold- ridge, who was in charge of the project until the end of 1941, made botanical collections of Puerto Rican trees and supervised the preparation of a few hundred drawings. He wrote two prelimi- nary volumes of "Trees of Puerto Rico" (14, 15), published in 1942 in both English and Spanish, each volume containing drawings and descriptions of 50 tree species. These small editions were soon exhausted. It was intended to issue additional parts covering a total of about 600 native and ex- otic tree species to be followed by a revision printed in a single volume. However, further work was suspended during the war. Identifications of sev- eral hundred tree specimens collected mostly by Hohlridge and Luis E. Gregory were made by the New York Botanical Garden. These specimens were the beginning of the Institute's herbarium. The present project on the trees of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands was begun by the authors together in 1950. The junior author had assisted in the earlier project upon his arrival in Puerto Rico in 1942, while the senior author did some reference work in 1941. The area was expanded to include the nearby smaller Virgin Islands, both United States and British, which have fewer tree species and very few additions. The senior author as dendrologist made field trips in Puerto Rico in 1950, 1952, 1954, and 1955. The botanical descriptions were prepared mostly by him from trees and living material supple- mented by herbarium specimens. On field trips through Puerto Rico and on brief visits to Mona, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola, he collected about 1,200 numbers of herbarium speci- mens of trees. As a result, a few additional island records were obtained and one new tree species was named. An article on the trees of Mona Island (20) was based mainly on his two field trips there. In checking the identifications, he examined the collections from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands in the National Herbarium of the United States National Museum, Washington, D.C. Sets of specimens have been deposited there and in the herbarium of the Institute of Tropical Forestry and will be distributed to other herbaria. The junior author. Director of the Institute of Tropical Forestry, has conducted forestry investi- gations in Puerto Rico continuously since 1942 and has studied many of these tree species in the for- ests and experimental plots. He has prepared the chapter "Forests and Forestry in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands," checked the descriptions, and contributed notes on wood and uses. Also, he has compiled the data on propagation, growth rate, and site adaptability, and distribution by forest types. The manuscript was completed in 1055, then translated into Spanish for the Spanish edition, and has been slightly revised in 1062 before publi- cation. The notes on Puerto Rican woods have been expanded to include later investigations at the Institute of Tropical Forestry. Also, many common names recorded in recent floras of other countries have been added. PLAN The 250 common tree species of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands described and illustrated in this volume are grouped by plant families in the usual botanical arrangement adopted by Britton and Wilson (5) and within each family alphabetically by scientific names. However, thethree large sub- families of the legume family often accepted as separate families are kept apart. Sixty-eight plant families and 185 genera are represented. Illustrations Facing their respective descriptions, the line drawings show foliage and flowers and usually also the fruits. Most are natural size (or very slightly reduced), but some have been reduced to % and a few to l/2 natural size as indicated. Near- ly all were made from fresh specimens in Puerto Rico. Tree Names The heading for the descriptive text of each species contains on the left the preferred common names in Spanish and English, on the right the accepted scientific name, and at top center the family names. An asterisk (*) after the scientific name means that the species (or family) is exotic, or introduced, and not native in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. At the end of the text of each species are listed other common names in use and botanical synonyms, the other scientific names used formerly or sometimes now. These names appear also in the Index of Common and Scientific Names. English family names are derived from an important example, while scientific or Latin family names terminate in "aceae" with few excep- tions. Preferred Common Thames Common names of trees often vary from place to place, some being applied to more than one un- related species, while other species may sometimes lack a distinctive local name. The authors have attempted (1) to record all names commonly ap- plied within (his region to each species; (2) to se- lect as a preferred name the one most widely em- ployed locally if not associated more commonly with another species; and (3) to suggest for species with no local common name one extensively used elsewhere. Since Spanish is the language of Puerto Rico, and English that of the Virgin Islands, two names are given for most trees pres- ent in both areas. The Spanish common name in the heading is that preferable for Puerto Rico, based chiefly upon prevalent usage. The selection has been made after consultation with local botanists and with foresters both of the Commonwealth Division of Forests, Fisheries, and Wildlife and of the Insti- tute of Tropical Forestry, United States Forest Service, Personnel of the Division who completed an island-wide forest inventory provided valuable information on usage. English common names in the heading include those found in the Virgin Islands or in widespread use elsewhere, These preferred names, many of which were listed by Britton and Wilson (5), were checked in the field with rural inhabitants on different islands. For the 65 species also native or naturalized in the United States, chiefly south- ern Florida, there is added the name accepted by the United States Forest Service in the Check List of Native and Naturalized Trees of the United States (19). For some less known species without local English names, those adopted else- where, such as in other West Indian islands, in Standardized Plant Names (17), or in commerce, have been accepted. Where two English common names are listed, the first is the local name in the Virgin Islands, and the second is either the Check List name adopted by the United States Forest Service and recommended for the United States or another name also widely employed. If no English name has been selected, the Spanish com- mon name may be suitable or the generic name may serve. Other Cormnon Thames For Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands many additional common names were obtained from local residents or taken from references, particu- larly Urban (37), Britton and Wilson (5), and Otero, Toro, and Pagan (32). Most of these have been verified, but several, apparently misapplied, have been omitted. As no Indian tribes have re- mained on Puerto Rico since the early Spanish settlement, there are now no separate aboriginal tree names. However, some Spanish names are of Carib Indian origin. Though the United States Virgin Islands belonged to Denmark until pur- chased by the United States in 1917, the tree names were English, and no Danish tree names are now recorded. Principal common names in use in the New World have been compiled from many floras and tree lists of different countries, and a few added from herbarium labels. These names often differ from country to country or from one island to an- other and may be in as many as five languages (Spanish, English, French, Dutch, and Portu- guese), besides some of American Indian origin. Variant spellings, aboriginal names, long, lists of local names within one country, and Old World names generally have been omitted. Other com- mon names have been grouped by language and countries in the following order: Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Spanish, other Spanish-speaking countries in West Indies, and from Mexico to South America; United States, English, Rritish lands, and other English-speaking countries; French, Haiti, French lands; Dutch West Indies and Surinam ; and Brazil. Names in international commerce or lumber trade or so recommended are indicated. Some preferred names of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are repeated under other common names to show usage elsewhere. In the West Indian islands some tree names are not in the same language of the governing coun- try, which may have changed one or more times since colonization. Persons migrating from one island to another have brought with them names from different languages. Some common names are corruptions from other tongues, such as French woi*ds somewhat modified in British areas. Various names have become adopted from Span- ish, English, French, and Dutch into Creole dia- lects. Also, European colonists often gave to trop- ical American trees the well-known names of simi- lar though unrelated Old World species. Scientific Thames Foresters, botanists, and other scientists use the scientific names in their technical writings and dis- cussions. Being in Latin or Latinized, scientific names are definite and uniform and regulated by botanists under the International Code of Botani- cal Nomenclature. Thus, the Latin name of a tree or other plant species in an international language is the same throughout the world. The scientific name of a species consists of two words : the generic name, which is capitalized, and the specific epithet. In some species, varieties are distinguished, being designated by a third word preceded by the abbreviation "var." References and technical publications cite also the author or botanist who first named and described the species, usually abbreviated if common or long. Where the name has been transferred from one genus or combination to another, the original author's name is placed in parenthesis and followed by a second author, who made the change. Botanical Synonyms As some species have borne more than one scien- tific name, any botanical synonyms common in use, particularly in the West Indies, are listed. For example, a species may have been described inde- pendently by different botanists, or two species may have been united following later study of ad- ditional specimens. Also, there may be differences of opinion among specialists whether a variation merits recognition as a variety or separate species or needs no additional name. Included under botanical synonyms are those scientific names ac- cepted by Britton and Wilson (-5) but afterwards changed because of differences in codes of botani- cal nomenclature or in accordance with mono- graphic studies and conservative usage. Tree Descriptions The descriptive text for each species begins with a summary of the main distinguishing characters, which is followed by size and appearance and by botanical descriptions of leaves, flowers, and fruits. Measurements of trees and their parts are given in the English system of feet and inches. In conver- sion to the metric system, which is more commonly used in tropical America, these equivalents may be noted : 1 foot is 0.3048 meter, 1 inch is 2.54 centi- meters, and Vg inch is approximately 3 millimeters. Main Distinguishing Characters The first paragraph summarizes the outstand- ing features for easy recognition, particularly leaves, flowers, and fruits. Mention is made of other characters useful in identification, such as distinctive bark or presence of latex or colored sap. Introduced trees are noted and indicated by an asterisk after the scientific name. Size and Appearance In the second paragraph the approximate size is given as small (less than 30 feet tall), medium (from 30 to 70 feet tall), or large (more than 70 feet tall). The average and maximum heights and trunk diameters represent mature trees in Puerto Rico, though larger trees may have existed in the virgin forests within the island or elsewhere. Trunk measurements are diameters at breast height (d.b.h.) or 4i/2 feet. Trees are classed as evergreen if in full leaf through the year or de- ciduous if leafless or nearly so for a brief period, such as in the dry season of late winter. But- tresses, or enlarged narrow outgrowths at the base of the trunk of large trees continuous with lateral roots, are noted if present. Data on shape of crown, branching, and twigs are added for many species. Notes on bark include color of the sur- face and texture, whether smooth or rough, and if fissured (with many narrow thin cracks) or fur- rowed (with broad deep grooves). As most trees have thin bark less than 1 •_» inch in thickness, men- tion is made of thick barks. Color and taste (also odor if present ) are given for the inner bark, that is, (lie living tissues exposed by cutting beneath the surface, since these details often are helpful in field identification. Leaves, Flowers, and Fruits Because of their importance for identification, the leaves, flowers, and fruit are described in de- tail and with measurements for reference. How- ever, characters emphasized in the first paragraph are not repeated below. Descriptive terms are de- fined under the topic "Explanation of Botanical Terms'' (p. 9). Months or seasons of flowering and fruiting, as far as known, have been compiled from various sources. For a few years personnel of the United States Forest Service made field observations of time of flowering and fruiting of many Puerto Rican tree species, which were summarized in a card file. Herbarium specimens collected by per- sonnel of the Forest Service at different times of the year have contributed additional dates, as have the floras by Urban (■>?') and Staid {35). Some tree species are cited as flowering and fruiting probably or nearly through the year. This state- ment means not that a particular tree bears flowers and fruits almost continually, but that on almost any date some trees may be found in bearing con- dition. An individual may have more than one blossoming period during the year. Generally flowering of trees is greatest from March to May, after the start of the spring rains. Wood and Uses The wood is described briefly, including notes on color of sapwood and heart wood, hardness, weight and specific gravity, and durability. These notes are chiefly from Puerto Rican specimens sup- plemented for some species by published descrip- tions from other areas. Detailed data on wood properties and uses have been condensed from the recent publications by Longwood (22, 23). The specific gravity values quoted to two decimal places were based on green volumes and are slightly lower than other values based on air-dry volumes. Rel- ative resistance of the wood to attack by dry-wood termites has been compiled from Wolcott (40). Uses of the wood are primarily those of Puerto Rico, but special and different uses elsewhere are mentioned. Most of the native woods are avail- able only in limited quantities, and none is suffi- ciently abundant for export. Nevertheless, as Longwood reported, many of these woods could be utilized in additional ways. Other Uses Other purposes served by Puerto Rican trees are noted. Many kinds are planted for fruit, shade, and ornament. Others have bark that yields tannin, libers, or dyes or have parts em- ployed in home medicines. Shade and ornamental trees of Puerto Rico have been listed by Winters and Almeyda (39) and by Martorell (24). The last has prepared also a list of trees that should not be planted because of insect pests or diseases, and these objections are incorporated here. Special mention has been made of the tree spevies intro- duced and hardy in subt topical parts of the United States, mainly southern Florida and southern Cal- ifornia, where they are cultivated for fruit, shade, and ornament. Sturrock and Menninger (36), Menninger (26, 27), Morton and Ledin (28), and Barrett (2) have published further information about these. Many trees are classed as honey plants by Ordetx (31) and others, because their flowers attract bees and secrete nectar in quant it ies. Propagation, Growth, and Other Notes Brief notes on propagation, growth rate, and site adaptability of many forest and planted trees have been summarized from records of the United States Forest Service, and other miscellaneous notes of interest have been added. Further details and methods on propagation of trees in Puerto Rico are contained in the manual on that subject by Gilormini (//). Additional information on forest management of many Puerto Rican tree spe- cies may be found in various articles in The Carib- bean Forester. Distribution For each tree species the natural distribution or range is stated, both in Puerto Rico and the United States and British Virgin Islands and also beyond through the West Indies and continental tropical America. Introduced trees, often spreading from cultivation and becoming naturalized, are further designated by mention of their native home. Names of individual islands belonging to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands where each species is known are recorded, mainly from the published ranges by Britton and Wilson (F>) supplemented by the authors1 field records. The first map (fig. 1 ) shows names and locations of the principal islands. Largest of those under Puerto Rico are Mona on the west and Culebra and Vieques on the east. Other small islands of botanical interest noted by Britton and Wilson are Desecheo at the west, Caja de Muertos on the south, and Icacos near the dry northeastern corner. « 0, ? © 5Q a Q Occurrence in the Virgin Islands is cited in the following order: St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada. The first three are the United States Virgin Islands, while the last three as well as several smaller compose the British Virgin Islands. Within Puerto Rico the distribution is recorded in greater detail by notes on abundance, altitudinal limits, and habitat or site. For many species are mentioned the forest regions or environments, or ecological regions or provinces. The natural dis- tribution of most native trees tends to be related to ecological regions defined by climate and soil. These eight regions, shown in figure 2, define cli- max forests of distinct types. They are described in detail under Forests and Forestry (p. 12). Public Forests The public forests in Puerto Rico under Federal and Commonwealth administration, shown in fig- ure 3, are widely distributed over the island and contain examples of most common tree species. These forests are accessible by highways or roads, and the personnel in charge can assist in locating and identifying the common trees. Occurrence of mil ive tree species in the 15 public forests is summarized by alphabetical lists which indicate localities where examples can be found. Luquillo Experimental Forest, formerly the Car- ibbean National Forest, is administered by the United States Forest Service. The following 14 public forests are under the Commonwealth Divi- sion of Forests, Fisheries, and Wildlife: Aguirre, Boqueron, Cambalache Experimental Forest, Carite, Ceiba, Guajataca, Guanica, Guilarte, Maricao, Rio Abajo, San Juan, Susiia, Toro Negro, and Vega. Distribution Maps One hundred small maps accompanying the drawings summarize the distribution of as many native species by municipalities within Puerto Rico, based upon the unpublished forest inventory by the Commonwealth in 1947-1952 and minor additions. Presence is shown by the number on a white background, in accordance with the num- bers of municipalities in figure 1 and the accom- panying legend. This survey covered 59 of the 75 municipalities. The remaining 16 municipalities shown by diagonal shading were omitted because of their limited forested areas, as were two other municipalities on the islands of Culebra and Vieques. Also excluded were the public forests, where other surveys have been made, and the man- grove swamp forests almost wholly within the former. These incomplete maps show local distribution in much greater detail than would maps based only upon botanical collections, in spite of certain limi- tations. Some species occur naturally in addi- tional municipalities containing the same forest environments or regions. Occurrence within a municipality, often limited by environment or al- titude, is not indicated. On sample plots the trees down to a minimum limit of 3.5 inches diameter at breast height (d.b.h.) or 414 feet were meas- ured and recorded. However, scattered, less com- mon, and cultivated species were not adequately noted, ami probably are present in some munici- palities adjacent to those mapped. Closely related species of a genus not easily distinguished in the field survey sometimes were grouped together and thus could not be mapped separately. Municipalities where an individual species is especially common, that is, among the 10 common- est species in number of trees according to the in- ventory, are listed by number in the text also. Distribution Outside Puerto Rico Ranges outside Puerto Rico are given for the islands of the West Indies in detail and also for continental tropical America. These ranges are based upon recent botanical floras, tree lists, and monographs supplemented by specimens in the National Herbarium of the United States National Museum. Distribution for many species now is somewhat better known than when summarized by Britton and Wilson (-5). Some species have a broad range through the Greater Antilles (Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico) and Les- ser Antilles (Leeward and Windward Islands) to Grenada or Barbados and are present on nearly all the islands except the smallest or those lacking suitable habitats. Thus it has not seemed neces- sary to list all these islands. Nearly all Puerto Rican tree species native also in the island of His- paniola are present in both Haiti and the Domini- can Republic, which countries are not mentioned individually. For those species not ranging through the Lesser Antilles to Grenada, the south- ernmost island of distribution is recorded. Islands near the Venezuelan coast of South America, including Trinidad and Tobago and Bonaire, Curasao, and Aruba of the Dutch West Indies (Windward Islands), have the flora of the South American mainland rather than the West Indies. Nearly all native Puerto Rican tree spe- cies also on these islands have a broad distribution in the Caribbean area, such as from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and on the continent from Mexico through Central America to Venezuela or beyond. The distribution of those species native or natu- ralized in the United States is given by States, generally only southern Florida, though mention is made of introduced trees planted and hardy in southern Florida and southern California. South- ward on the continent the northernmost and southernmost countries of range limits are stated. Thus, a species recorded from Mexico to Peru and Brazil is native through the countries of Central America and northern South America. Some im- portant cultivated trees are widely distributed 687-921 O — 64- 3 a a 4) S c D a 4) s o nearly throughout the tropics, including the Old World. Related Species All other native tree species of each genus are mentioned, usually under the first species of the genus or sometimes under a similar one, to aid in further identification. Preferred Spanish and English names are given where known, though some species probably bear the same names or only those of the genus. Distinguishing characters for comparing related species with those figured have been compiled largely from Rritton and Wilson (o). Distribution is given by islands. In the two largest tree genera, Eugenia with 25 native species and Miconia with 16, the other species have merely been listed. Keys for identification in these as well as the other genera were published by Britton and Wilson also. Where no related species are mentioned, all na- tive tree species of the genus, usually only one or two, are illustrated. However, introduced tree species, shrubs, and herbs have not been cited. Of course, some entire genera and 20 families, mostly with few species of small, less important trees, have been omitted. EXPLANATION OF BOTANICAL TERMS Botanical descriptions for the classification and identification on trees are based principally on dif- ferences of leaves, flowers, and fruits, and their parts, such as presence or absence, number, ar- rangement, shape, size, and union or separation. To record these details, systematic botanists, or plant taxonomists, have a special terminology of technical words derived from Latin and Greek, defined and illustrated in botany textbooks and floras. In this book, nontechnical terms have been used wherever possible, though some technical terms have been inserted in parenthesis or adopted where there was no clearer equivalent. Principal terms used in this book are explained here, while many are illustrated by the drawings. Thus, it has seemed unnecessary in include a glossary. Leaves These flat, green organs serving for food manu- facture are very useful in the identification of trees, usually present in quantities and of large size. The point on a twig where 1 or more leaves are at- tached is the node. In arrangement on the twig, leaves attached singly or 1 at a node are alternate, leaves borne in pairs or 2 at a node are opposite. and leaves inserted 3 or more at a node are whorlt d. Parts of a leaf are the leafstalk or petiole and the flat expanded part or hhtcle. In some species there are 2 (or 1) scales at the base of a leaf called stipules, usually shedding early but sometimes forming distinctive buds at the end of a twig. In number of blades a leaf with 1 blade is simple, while a eompound leaf has usually several blades (rarely only 2) called leaflets, which may or may not have stalks. A leaflet is distinguished from a simple leaf by the absence of a bud at the base and by the shedding of the axis. Also, leaflets are in •2 rows along the axis, while simple leaves may be similar but more often not in 2 rows on the twig. Compound leaves are pinnate or pinnately com- pound when the leaflets are inserted along a com- mon axis and digitate (or palmate) when attached toget her at the end of the petiole. If the axis has branches a leaf may be twice pinnate or bipinnate or if branched again the leaf is three times pinnate or tripinnate. Pinnate leaves may be even pinnate when the leaflets are paired and end in a pair, and oild pinnate when ending in a single leaflet. Several terms describe the shape of leaf blades. A linen- leaf has a narrow grasslike blade with edges parallel, and an oblong leaf is broader but with edges also nearly parallel. A lance-shaped or lanceolate leaf has the form of a lance, several times longer than broad, pointed at apex or tip end, and broadest near base, while the reverse shape is oblanceolate. An ovate leaf has an oval shape broadest toward the base, more or less as in an t'^g, while an obovate leaf is the reverse, broadest toward apex. An elliptic leaf has an oval shape but broadest in the center. A circular leaf has the blade more or less in form of a circle, while a spatulate lea f is spoon-shaped. As to margin or edge a leaf blade may be toothed, lobed, without teeth, or rolled under. The apex and base of a leaf blade may be long-pointed, short-pointed, or rounded, or the base heart- shaped, if with two rounded lobes. In venation or arrangement of the veins a leaf blade may be parallel-veined, if the veins are closely placed side by side or parallel; pinnate- n imd. with a single main vein or midrib and lat- eral veins on both sides somewhat as in a feather; or palmate-veined, when several main veins arise at the base and spread like fingers in a hand. Flower Clusters The grouping of flowers and fruits in clusters (inflorescences) and their location and arrange- ment often provide characters useful in identifica- tion of trees. A flower cluster is terminal when it is at the apex or end of a twig and lateral when borne at the base of a leaf or on the side of a twig. The flowers may be produced singly, one by one. A spike is a flower cluster with elongated axis bearing stalkless flowers, while a raceme has an elongated axis with stalked flowers, and a panicle is a compound raceme with branched axis. An umbel has flowers on spreading stalks of equal length attached together at the apex of a larger stalk somewhat like an umbrella. A head bears stalkless flowers on the broad disklike apex of the axis. In a cyme the flower cluster is definite, with the main axis ending in the first flower and with other flowers borne on branches below. 9 Flowers For classification and identification of trees and other flowering plants, the flowers and fruits, or reproductive organs, are the most important parts. They show the relationships better than the leaves and other vegetative organs, which are less con- stant and often vary greatly under different en- vironments. The commoner plant families can be recognized by their characteristic flowers. It has seemed desirable, therefore, to describe the flower structure of each tree species in simple terms with measurements. The flower is a modified stem bearing four or fewer groups or circles of specialized leaves known as calyx, corolla, stamens, and pistil (or pistils). The calyx, or outermost group, is composed of re- duced leaves generally green and called sepals, while the corolla consists of larger and usually col- ored parts known as petals. The corolla may be regular with equal petals or irregular with petals of unequal size and may be tubular with the petals united into a tube. The stamens or male organs of the flower have a filament or stalk and an anther or enlarged, usually yellow, part which bears the pollen, or male elements. Sometimes, the stamens may be replaced by stain/nodes, which are nonfunc- tional or sterile stamens, usually small. In the center of the flower there is usually a single pistil or female organ (sometimes few to many) developed from one or more specialized leaves. The pistil consists of three parts: the ovary or enlarged part at the base, the style or stalk above the ovary, and the stigma,, the usually enlarged and often sticky end, which receives the pollen. The ovary contains 1 to many ovules, rounded whitish female elements. The mature ovary is the fruit, while the ovules become the seeds. In position with respect to the other flower parts, the ovary may be superior or inferior. The su- perior ovary, the common type, is free or separate in the center of the flower and inserted inward from or above the other parts. The inferior ovary is located below the calyx, corolla, and the stamens, which appear to be inserted above. The structure of the ovary, including the number of cavities or cells from 1 to several and number and position of the ovules within, is important in classification of plant families. The receptacle is the enlarged base of the flower where the flower parts are inserted. Above the receptacle and inward from the corolla there is sometimes a disk or small part like a circle or ring, often glandular. The receptacle may form a basal tube or cup called the hypanthium, which may enclose the inferior ovary or sometimes surround the superior ovary and bear the other parts located above. Though usually possessing stamens and pistil and thus with both sexes or bisexual, flowers may be of one sex only or vn isexual. A male flower has stamens but no pistil, and a female flower has a pistil but no stamens. A species with male and female flowers on the same plant is said to be mo- noecious, while one with male and female flowers on different plants, which are also male or female, is dioecious. In polygamous species flowers of one sex and bisexual flowers are borne on the same individual. Fruits Developing from mature ovary, the fruit con- tains the seeds and sometimes other flower parts still attached. Present often for longer periods than flowers or also remaining under the trees after falling, the fruits may be especially helpful in identification. Commonly the fruit originates from a single pistil and is simple. A fruit from several pistils in one flower is aggregate (for ex- ample, corazon or custard-apple), while one from several united flowers often partly from an en- larged fleshy stalk is multiple (for example, higo or fig) . Simple fruits are classed as dry or fleshy (juicy or succulent ) . Some dry fruits do not open to re- lease the seeds (indehiscent), while others open (dehiscent ) . The akene is a dry fruit not opening and containing a single seed separate from the fruit wall. The nut is also 1-seeded with a thick hard shell. The pod or legume is a dry 1-celled fruit which splits open usually along 2 lines (for example, the legume family). The capsule is a dry fruit of 2 or more cells which opens on as many lines as cells. Fleshy fruits, which do not open, include the berry, which usually has several seeds, and the drupe, which has a central stone or hard part containing 1 or more seeds. HOW TO USE THIS BOOK IN TREE IDENTIFICATION Many trees can be identified by reference to the drawings, descriptions, and distribution notes. However, the illustrations alone may not empha- size differences among closely related species not figured. It is helpful to have for comparison the flowers and fruits in addition to foliage because many kinds of trees have leaves of similar shape. Often one tree can be found in blossom out of sea- son, perhaps at the edge of a forest, and old fruits may be located on dead branches or on the ground. A ruler and a hand lens are useful in examining the specimen and comparing it with the descrip- tion. If the local common name of a tree in Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands is obtained, such as by asking residents, then the description, illustration, and scientific name can be found by consulting the page listed in the Index of Common and Scientific Names. Since common names in other countries and as many as five languages are included, the Index will be helpful in determining the same spe- cies elsewhere. To avoid errors, identification from a common name should always be verified by inspecting the 10 drawing and comparing the specimen with the main distinguishing characters or, if needed, with the detailed description of leaves, flowers, and fruits. Otherwise, the use of the same common name for unrelated tree species in different places or misapplication of a name may lead to confusion. The List of Tree Species with Descriptions and Illustrations will also aid identification because it lists the species in the usual botanical arrange- ment with related trees together, alphabetically by scientific names under each plant family. If the family is recognized, names of the examples with page numbers will be found in the List. Likewise, an unknown tree resembling a known one should be sought in the same family. The Key to Families serves to place an unknown tree in its plant family. This key includes the <'>s families of this book and 20 additional small fami- lies represented by only a few native tree species. Each family with two or more species illustrated contains a key to these species for further identifi- cation. The Special Lists may be helpful also in identi- fying trees with unusual characters or special uses. For trees not included, reference may be made to Britton and Wilson's (5) flora of Puerto Eico and the Virgin Islands, which contains both keys to species and botanical descriptions. Also bo- tanical specimens of dried pressed twigs with leaves, flowers, and fruits, and with field notes (lo- cality, altitude, date, common name, collector, whether wild or planted, size, abundance, etc.) may be forwarded to large herbaria or universi- ties for identification by specialists. STATISTICAL SUMMARY The 250 species of common trees of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands described and illus- trated here are classified into 185 genera and 68 plant families. Of these, 72 species, 38 genera, and 6 families are exotic, or introduced. These genera and families are not represented also by native species of trees or smaller plants. For fur- ther identification the 130 additional, related tree species (including 10 introduced) of the same gen- era are mentioned briefly and compared with those illustrated. Thus, 380 tree species are in- cluded for identification. To account for all native tree species recorded by Britton and Wilson (5) in these genera, 22 additional species of Eugenia and 15 of Miconia are listed. A second volume is planned to describe and illustrate the remaining native tree species and widely grown exotics in these and other genera and in 20 other families. Numbers of tree species accepted for an area will depend upon the definition of a tree or minimum size considered. Trees may be defined as woody plants having one erect perennial stem or trunk at least 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) in diameter at breast height (d.b.h. or at 4i/2 feet or 1.4 meters), a more or less definitely formed crown of foliage, and a height of at least 12 to 15 feet (4 meters). Accordingly, some small trees often shrubby and not reaching sawlog size have been included. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Credit is due various persons of the United States Forest Service, past and present, for their assistance in preparing this book and particularly to Leslie R. Holdridge, who initiated the. project, made extensive botanical collections, supervised drawing of numerous illustrations (also making a few), and wrote the two preliminary volumes. In those volumes acknowledgment was made to assistance in the preparation of the material by personnel of Work Projects Administration Offi- cial Project Xo. 165-2-36-20. Most of the black and white drawings were pre- pared some years ago by several artists employed by the United States Forest Service and Work Projects Administration. Francisco Roena Santi- ago made more than 50 of these. In 1954 to com- plete this volume about 50 drawings were made by Edwin C. Rivera S. and 10 by Felix Rosado. Five others were prepared for a similar book on the common trees of Venezuela by the senior author. They are Ceiba pentandra, Terminalia ratappa, and Tecoma stuns by Ruby Rice Little and Cono- riirpiis cnrtus and Avicennia nltida by Ellen de Jiirgenson. The drawing of Nectmndra coriacea was made by Jane W. Roller. Assistance of the New York Botanical Garden in making determinations of the earlier botanical collections is appreciated. Acknowledgment is due the United States National Museum for the privilege of examining the large Puerto Rican and Virgin Islands collections in the National Herbarium. Foresters, rangers, and others of both the United States Forest Service and Commonwealth Division of Forests, Fisheries, and Wildlife have assisted the authors in field work and in checking the common names. The authors are deeply in- debted to Jose Marrero, of the Institute of Tropi- cal Forestry and coauthor of the Spanish edition (21), for his review of the manuscript and for his Spanish translation. Credit is clue Franklin R. Longwood of the United States Forest Service, for the detailed data on about 60 Puerto Rican woods taken from his publications which appeared while this manuscript was awaiting publication. Distribution data by municipalities were com- piled from the forest inventory of Puerto Rico, which was conducted by the Commonwealth Divi- sion of Forests, Fisheries, and Wildlife under the direction of Benjamin R. Seda. From these rec- ords the distribution maps were made by Raiil Ybarra O, of the Institute of Tropical Forestry. Alfonse Nelthropp, of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, has contributed many common names used in the Virgin Islands. Roy O. Woodbury, of the University of Puerto Rico Agricultural Experiment Station, has checked and added to the list of species growing also in southern Florida. 11 FORESTS AND FORESTRY IN PUERTO RICO AND THE VIRGIN ISLANDS The trees native to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, some 500 species, were found at the time of discovery in extensive and luxuriant forests. Whereas such forests have subsequently all but dis- appeared, there is every reason to believe that at the time of Columbus' arrival the dominant vege- tation throughout the islands, with the possible exception of a few small marshes, was forest. The reports of early voyageurs (1, 8, 25) all describe the islands as forest covered. Furthermore, in other regions of similar climate and soil the vege- tation is forest wherever it has not been modified by man. The natural vegetation of Puerto Rico, including forests and plant successions, has been described by Gleason and Cook (12,6). THE VIRGIN FORESTS Description of the virgin forests of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands can now be only very ap- proximate, since few relics remain in Puerto Rico and none in the Virgin Islands. Wherever partial cutting or complete deforestation has once taken place, even where forests are subsequently allowed to redevelop, the relative abundance of the differ- ent species suffers a marked change. The brief description here presented is based upon a study of a few remaining virgin forests in Puerto Rico (38) and upon published descriptions of similar forests in nearbv islands, particularly those by Beard (3). The eight climax forest, types or forest regions shown in figure 2 are described below with lists of the common trees. Reference is made primarily to Puerto Rico, and some species mentioned are not in the Virgin Islands. However, the general character of the vegetation there was apparently as here described. The more important differences in the natural vegetation of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands reflect variations in topography, climate, and soil. The vegetation of the coastal plains was unlike that of the steeper upper slopes, and a still differ- ent type of forest clothed the uppermost peaks. Differences in the total amount and seasonal dis- tribution of precipitation produced extreme differ- ences between the forests of the eastern mountains of Puerto Rico and those of the southwest coast. Reduced moisture availability due to shallow soils, particularly in the limestone regions, is manifest in the growth of trees on such areas. The contrasts among the various vegetative types are striking because of the extreme range of conditions with- in short distances. Elevations range from sea level to 4,398 feet, precipitation from 30 to 180 inches annually, and soils from deep to very shal- low, and from fine clays to coarse sands. Along the wind-swept seacoasts was a low scrub- by littoral woodland so narrow and so small in area that it is not shown in figure 2. Most of the trees in this woodland were small and of poor form due to extreme exposure to salt winds. On dry rocky slopes facing the southern or southwestern coasts, on Anegada, on Mona, and on other small outlying islands the littoral woodland assumed the form of cactus scrub. In the more protected loca- tions, particularly on the north coast of Puerto Rico, grew trees of good timber species such as maria (CalophyUum brasiUeme) , ausubo (Manil- kara bidentata), roble (Tabebt/ia heterophyUa) , and tortugo amarillo (S/deroocylon foetidissl- iii nut.). One of the most prominent species near the shore was uva de playa (Coccoloba uvlfera). Along the shores of protected bays, lagoons, and estuaries in an area too restricted to show in figure 2 were dense stands of mangrove, the trees of only four species growing to a height of 60 feet or more. Five public forests bordering the coast, mapped in figure 3, still contain mangroves. In the water it- self was mangle Colorado (Rhizophora mangle). On the adjacent area normally subject to tidal flooding were mangle bianco (Laguncularia race- mosa) and mangle negro (Avieenmia nitida) . On the landward side was mangle boton (Conocarpus erect us). The strong durable timbers of mangle Colorado and mangle boton were much used for construction. On the coastal plain and lower slopes, up to an elevation of 500 feet or more in Puerto Rico, and to the tops of most mountains of the Virgin Islands grew a dry forest which was largely evergreen but with some deciduous species, particularly in the drier coastal areas. At its best development, on the northern coastal plain of Puerto Rico, this forest attained 80 feet or more in height. Else- where, in the moist limestone region and on the south coast of Puerto Rico, and in the Virgin Islands, it was apparently shorter, from 40 to 60 feet tall. This forest consisted of two tree stories, each composed of distinct species. The lower story constituted a forest within a forest and depended upon the upper canopy for its existence. The veg- etation varied in composition from place to place but it was everywhere a mixture of species. At least 200 tree species were present somewhere with- in the natural distribution of this forest. 12 Within the area described are four distinct forest regions or ecological provinces, each giving rise to a distinct type of forest. These regions or prov- inces, designated as moist coast, moist limestone, dry coast, and dry limestone, are shown in figure 2. The more common or characteristic species of the moist coastal forest included the following: Acrocomia media Nectandra coriacea Hernandia sonora Hymenaea courbaril Andira inermis Pterocarpus officinalis Zanthoxylum martinicense Calophyllum brasiliense Mammea americana Psidium guajava Manilkara bidentata Sideroxylon foetidissimum Citharexylum frutieosum Pet it in dom ingens is Tabebuia heterophylla Genipa americana Guettarda srabra Randia aculeata The moist limestone forest was similar to that along the coast and had many of the same species. The chief differences appear to be due to the drier soils on the well-drained limestone hills and the greater humidity in the protected areas between the hills, especially in the southern part of this area which is close to the central mountains. The tree species of the moist limestone forest include : Aiphnnes acanthophylla Gaussia attenuate Coccoloba diversifolia Coccoloba pubescens Licaria salicifolia Zanthoxylum. martinicense Bursera simaruba Cedrela odorata Hye ton ima clus io ide s Sapium laurocexasus Thouinia striata Montezuma speciosissima Ochroma pyramidal V Clusia rosea Bueida buceras Tetrazygia eleagnoides Diph olis salicifolia Sideroxylon foetidissimum Guettarda scabra Terebraria resinosa Randia aculeata On the southern, dry side of Puerto Rico the more adverse moisture conditions excluded many of the tree species common on the north side. In their places grew a few other species especially adapted to such conditions. The tree species of the dry coastal forest include : Coccoloba venosa Capparis cynophallo- phora Stahlia monosperm a Lonchocarpus domin- g en sis Pictetia aculeata Erythroxylon areola- tum Guaiocum officinale In the limestone region of the south coast, as on the north coast, excessive soil drainage accentuates the dryness of the environment to a point that some species of trees cannot subsist. Others which are Polygala coioellii Ceiba pentandra Guazuma ulmi folia Canella winterana Bueida buceras Rau vol fia nitida Cordia nitida Citharexylum frutieosum more hardy replace these, limestone forest include : Pisonia albida ( 'apparis cynophallo- phora Pictetia aculeata Guaiocum, officinale Guaiacum sanctum . 1 myris elemifera Bursera simaruba Gymnanthes hi rid a The trees of the dry Thouinia portoricensis Culuhrina arboresct ns Sarcomphalus reticula- tus ( 'ephalocereus royenii Opuntia rubescens Bueida buceras Dipholis salicifolia Chi in cria alba The coastal forests of Puerto Rico and the Vir- gin Islands, unlike those of the. other Greater Antilles, contained no mahogany (Svnetenia ma- hagoni). Widespread use of the wood and early introduction of the tree to these islands has led to a general impression that this species is native. However, whereas the young trees develop abun- dantly in Puerto Rico beneath or near planted trees of this species, they are never encountered in native forest at any distance from such trees. Had the species been native, there would still be young trees throughout the coastal forests of the island without relation to the location of planted trees. It is extremely unlikely that it could ever have been exterminated, since aceitillo (Zanthoxylum fa rum), a tree in greater demand and with much weaker reproductive capacity than mahogany, is still to be found in remote forests. Typical mountain forests are confined to Puerto Rico, although a small patch of similar but unique forest is found on the top of Sage Mountain, Tor- tola. Between about 500 to 2,000 feet elevation in the eastern mountains, known as Luquillo Moun- tains, and to 3,000 feet in the central mountains or Central Cordillera, slightly higher on the south slope than on the north, was probably the most magnificent forest of Puerto Rico. Much of the original vegetation of this area is described as tropical moist forest ; in the wettest areas it is trop- ical rain forest. At its maximum development this forest reached 110 feet in height, with trees to 8 feet in diameter. Three forests of distinct size and composition grew together here, each forming a separate story of vegetation. Throughout the range of this type of forest there were probably about 170 tree species. Within the mountain area are two forest regions or ecological provinces and corresponding distinct forest types. These provinces are designated as lower Cordillera and lower Luquillo. It is seen in figure 2 that the lower Cordillera province in- cludes both the north and south lower slopes of the central mountains of Puerto Rico and the Sierra de Cayey and also the upper slopes of the disconnected Sierra de Atalaya in the northwest. The Luquillo Mountains are separate both geo- graphically and ecologically from the Central Cordillera. The trees of the lower Cordillera forest include the following : 13 Cyathm arborea Cecropia peltata Ocotea leucoxylon O co tea moschata Hirtella rugosa Inga laurina Pithecellobium arboreum Andira inermis Ormosia krugii Dacryodes excelsa Cedrela odorata Guarea trichilioides Byrsonima coriacea Dry petes glauca Cupania americana Meliosma herbertii Casearia arborea II n in aliu in racem.osum Buchenavia capitata Myrcia deflexa Dendropanax arboreus Didymopanax morototoni Linociera. domingensis Oordia alliodora Cordia borinquensis Cordia sulcata Vitex divaricata Tabebula heterophylla The forest of the lower slopes of the Luquillo Mountains is similar in general appearance to that in the Cordillera, but because of greater precipi- tation and higher humidity it is somewhat more luxuriant, and several tree species are much more common here than elsewhere. The trees of the lower Luquillo province include the following: Cyathea arborea Alchorneopsis portori- Cecropia peltata censis Beilschmiedia pendula Dry petes glauca Ocotea leucoxylon Sapium laurocerasus Ocotea moschata Cupania americana Hirtella rugosa Meliosma herbertii Inga laurina Sloanea berteriana Andira inermis Ochroma pyramidale Ormosia krugii Casearia arborea. Dacryodes excelsa Buchenavia capitata Tetragastris balsami- Myrcia deflexa fera Manilkara bidentata Guarea trichilioides Linociera domingensis Trichilia pallida Cordia borinquensis Byrsonima. coriacea Tabebuia heterophylla The similar forest on the top of Sage Mountain, Tortola, does not exceed 60 feet in height, ap- parently because of a somewhat drier climate. It contains many species associated with this forest in Puerto Rico and is dominated almost exclu- sively by bulletwood {Manilkara bidentata) . Farther up the slopes in Puerto Rico, extending to near the tops of the peaks, was a subtropical rain forest. Here the temperature is lower, and rainfall, ranging from 100 to possibly 200 inches annually, is so abundant as to produce swampy conditions and highly leached soils. The result was a comparatively poor forest about 60 feet tall and containing about 60 tree species. This upper mountain forest is distinct in the Cordillera and the Luquillo Mountains primarily because of more moist conditions in the latter. The common or characteristic tree species of the upper Cordillera forest include : Cyathea arborea Matayba domingensis Euterpe globosa Clusia krugiana Magnolia portoricensis Calycogonium Guutteria blainii squamulosum Ocotea spathulata Brunellia Heterotrichum comocladi folia cymosum Alchornea latifolia Micropholis Turpinia paniculata chrysophylloides In the upper Luquillo Mountains the forest is similar to that of the Cordillera, but there are in addition a number of species found only on the Luquillo Mountains. The common tree species of the upper Luquillo Forest include the following: Cyathea arborea Eugenia borinquensis Euterpe globosa Calycogonium Magnolia splendens squamulosum Octotea spathulata Heterotrichum Alchornea latifolia cymosum Croton poecilanthus Micropholis Cyrilla racemifora chrysophylloides Matayba. domingensis Micropholis Clusia krugiana garciniaefolia Calyptranthes krugii Tabebuia rigida One of the most prominent species in these upper mountain forests is the sierra palm {Eu- terpe globosa) which forms extensive, nearly pure stands on unstable soils. In the western part of the Cordillera and near El Yunque peak in the Luquillo Mountains grows Puerto Rico's only arborescent gymnosperm, caobilla {Podocarpus coriaceus ) . On Puerto Rico's mountain peaks, above 2,500 feet elevation, the forest is dwarfed to 20 feet or less in height. Little or no valuable timber is pres- ent in this forest, but tree species of interest in- clude Weinmannia pinnata and Brunellia como- cladifolia. THE FORESTS OF TODAY Within the total area of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, approximately 2,335,000 acres, there are now about 560,000 acres covered by trees.1 Of this about 280,000 acres are covered by forests or brush. Included here are an estimated 235,000 acres in Puerto Rico and 45,000 acres in the Virgin Islands. Only about 8,000 acres, slightly more than 1 percent of the forests, are still in virgin condition. An estimated 198,000 acres, virtually all in Puerto Rico, are covered by coffee shade. Of this some 125,000 acres bear also coffee trees, the rest being shaded by trees but abandoned as planta- tions. Another 70,000 acres are woodland pas- tures, where the trees are more widely spaced but form a light shade. Of this area, -45,000 acres are in Puerto Rico and 25,000 acres in the Virgin Islands. Some 10,000 acres are in orchards, chiefly coconut groves. 1 The estimated areas in this chapter are based upon reports of the Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture and Commerce, the Puerto Rico Planning Board, the United States Census, and recent official reports on agriculture in the United States Virgin Islands. Data on the British Virgin Islands are rough approximations, based upon personal observations in the area. 14 It is thus seen that more than three-fourths of the land surface of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands is bare of trees. Far more than this has been deforested at one time or another. The cutting of the forests, done partly to harvest their timber but more generally to clear land for farming, took place primarily in the 19th century. It eliminated tree growth from the more fertile and accessible lands. The remaining trees are lo- cated chiefly on steep slopes, rocky mountain sum- mits, or where excessive shallowness, dryness, or wetness of the soil precludes economic farming. Thus the best developed forests have disappeared. Most of the forests remaining are those which re- appeared after farming was abandoned on these poor lands. The remaining forests are nearly all very differ- ent from those found by the early voyageurs. The most valuable trees, both as to species and as to size, have been removed. Few trees exceed 12 inches in diameter. Most of these are of species unused for purposes other than fuel, and thus of negligible value. These larger trees of inferior quality tend to suppress the development of any younger trees of more valuable species which may be growing beneath them. A number of the introduced exotic tree species have become naturalized in the forests of the islands, now appearing as though native. Com- mon naturalized species in the humid forests of Puerto Rico include pomarrosa {Eugenia jambos), emajagua (Hibiscus tUiaceus), almendra {Ter- minal ia rata p pa), bucayo gigante (Erythrina poeppigiana) , and tulipan africano (Spathodea campanula! a). On the dry southwestern coast of Puerto Eico bayahonda (Prosopis jiilifora) lias become naturalized in pastures. In the United States Virgin Islands an outstanding naturalized tree in the forests (particularly in St. Croix) is Dominican mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni) and in pastures, tibet (Albizla lebbek). FOREST CONSERVATION The trees and forests of Puerto Eico and the VTirgin Islands are a valuable asset. The orna- mental value of trees around homes along the roadsides and in parks is apparent to all. Tree fruits provide valuable foods and important items of commerce. Forested areas in the mountains or along beaches offer peaceful shady environment for outdoor recreation and on each of the islands constitute important tourist attractions Not so apparent any more is the value of the forests for the timber they supply. The best trees have been cut long since, so this contribution from the forest is no longer what it was. The use of wood in construction and charcoal for cooking is declining in the face of substitute materials. However, the forests do continue to supply numer- ous products, such as posts, which are of utility in farming regions. The least obvious of the values of our forests is as important as any other, their capacity to con- serve soil and water resources. This protective benefit from forest is unexcelled by any other crop. The forest litter reduces surface runoff and erosion. The porous soil beneath forests retains its maximum capacity to absorb rain water — water which may then appear gradually through clear springs rather than in the form of muddy torrents. The importance of the trees and forests of Puerto Eico and the Virgin Islands is not so much a matter of their present contribution as it is a question of what they might contribute. Past cut- ting of trees and land clearing have reduced these resources to a fraction of their potential. In recognition of the possibility of enhancing local forest resources, several conservation measures have been taken. A brief history of this activity, confined largely to Puerto Eico, is presented here. There is little record of actual accomplishments in forest conservation in Puerto Eico prior to 10<H). Sixteenth century Spanish laws, reflecting the scarcity of forests in Spain, were generally unrealistic for the completely forested island of Puerto Eico. Clearing of forests for farming was then needed, rather than preservation of the forests. Possibly the first indication of official interest in forest conservation within Puerto Eico was a government circular of 1824 recommending that strips of trees be left along and at the source of streams (34). The first appropriation of pub- lic funds for forestry in Puerto Eico is recorded for 1860 (33). Public forest reserves were estab- lished in 1876 (7), and a forest department existed in the colonial government during the rest of that century. The extent and condition of the island's forest resources, as described at the end of the cen- tury, testify that conservation efforts to that time were not very effective. The first step toward forest conservation in Puerto Eico during the present century was the proclamation of the Luquillo Forest Reserve in 1903. This area was surveyed in 1916 and proved to contain about 12,400 acres. The United States Forest Service appointed a supervisor to admin- ister this foi'est in 1917. In the same year the Puerto Eico Forest Service was established and by 1920 was responsible for the protection of more than 26,000 acres of unalienated forest lands in the mangroves, at Guanica and Maricao, and on Mona Island. Forestry activities were materially expanded with the advent of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935. Since that time the area of Fed- eral forest lands has increased to about 28,000 acres, and the Commonwealth now administers about another 50,000 acres. The public forests of Puerto Rico have been placed under protection, improved, and put to use. Boundaries have been identified and monumented, and roads and ranger stations have been built 15 3 CO Ml I S3 H o 1 I OS £ 16 within these forests. About 2,500,000 cubic feet of timber have been removed from the forests in order to harvest mature trees and to eliminate in- ferior trees. About 7,500 acres of forest have been improved in this way. An additional 22,000 acres of deforested lauds have been planted with trees. Seven recreation areas within these forests have been built for the use of the public. These im- provements represent a total investment of not less than $15,000,000. The Federal and Puerto Rican governments have cooperated in encouraging forestry on pri- vate lands as well. The Agricultural Extension Service of the University of Puerto Rico and the Federal Soil Conservation Service advise farmers on forestry techniques. The Commonwealth Di- vision of Forests, Fisheries, and Wildlife ( the suc- cessor to the Puerto Rico Forest Service) and the United States Forest Service cooperate in the pro- duction of forest tree nursery stock for distribu- tion to farmers. The United States Forest Service has since 1939 conducted research in forest man- agement and utilization in Puerto Rico, and since 1955 its primary function has been forest research, carried out at the Institute of Tropical Forestry in Rio Piedras. The task of conserving and making productive Puerto Rico's forest lands (fig. 4) is far from completed. More than 500,000 acres within the island are not well suited to other than forest crops. Present public forest lands under protec- tion and management constitute only about 16 per- cent of this area. Almost none of the private lands are under forest management, and more than half of them are completely deforested. More serious still is that substantial areas of such land are subject to shifting cultivation, with at- tendant erosion and sedimentation of reservoirs downstream. The placing of Puerto Rico's forest lands under good management is a task requiring more research, extension, and, in some areas, pub- lic acquisition of lands. In the Virgin Islands a few old laws exist re- garding the protection of trees along streams, but in the course of time these islands, both the British and United States, became almost completely de- forested to the tops of the mountains. However, in the United States islands extensive secondary forests have developed with the decline in popula- tion and agriculture which took place in the past 50 years. Possibly the outstanding early development which is of significance to forestry was the intro- duction of Dominican mahogany (Swietenia ma- hagoni) into St. Thomas and St. Croix. This introduction, judging by the size of some of the older trees on St. Croix, must have been made at least 200 years ago. A planting in the hills south- west of Christiansted, St. Croix, has given rise to natural regeneration of mahogany covering some 200 adjacent acres, suggesting that this valuable species might be introduced into secondary forests elsewhere in the islands. A limited government program of tree plant- ing was carried out in St. Thomas in the early 1930's, administered from Puerto Rico. Un- doubtedly some of the younger mahoganies on that island area result. Nevertheless, this species is relatively unknown in St. John and Tortola. A new forestry program is now underway in the United States Virgin Islands, sponsored by the Federal Government through the Virgin Islands Corporation. Trees are being propagated for co- operative planting on private lands, a sawmill has been set up to utilize mature trees, and new species are being tested as to their adaptability to local grow ing conditions. Estate Thomas Experimental Forest was established on St. Croix in 1903. In the British Virgin Islands the Protection of Trees and Conservation of Soil and Water Ordi- nance of 1954 laid the basis for the protection of areas requiring tree growth as a protection for soil and water resources. That government contem- plates initial concentration on the protection of intermittent stream beds by tree planting. 17 LITERATURE CITED (1) Abbad y Lasierra, Ifiigo. 1866. Historia geograflca, civil y natural de la isla de San Juan Bautista de Puerto Rico. Iinprenta y Liberia de Acosta San Juan. 508 pp. (2) Barrett, Mary F. 1956. Common exotic trees of South Florida (Dicoty- ledons). 414 pp., illus. Gainesville. (3) Beard, J. S. 1949. The natural vegetation of the Windward and Leeward Islands. Oxford Forestry Mem. No. 21, 192 pp., illus. (4) Britton, N. L. 1918. The flora of the American Virgin Islands. Brook- lyn Bot. Gard. Mem. 1 : 19^118. (5) and Wilson, Percy. 1923-30. Descriptive flora — Spermatophyta. Botany of Porto Rico and the Virgin Islands. N.Y. Acad. Sci., Sci. Surv. Porto Rico Virgin Islands, v. 5, 6. (6) Cook, Melville T., and Gleason, Henry Allan. 1928. Ecological survey of the flora of Porto Rico. Porto Rico Dept. Agr. Jour. 12:1-139, illus. (7) Cuba. 1907. Disposiciones vigentes relativas al servicio del Ramo de Monies en la Isla de Cuba. Havana. (8) Durland, William D. 1929. Forest regeneration in Puerto Rico. Econ. Geog. 5 : 369-381. (8a) Eggers, H. F. A. 1879. The flora of St. Croix and the Virgin Islands. U.S. Natl. Mus. Bui. 13. 133 pp. (9) Fernandez y Jimenez, Jose Maria. 1867. Tratado de la arboricultura cubana y lleva agregada de la Isla de Pinos y Puerto-Rico. 225 pp. Habana. (10) Gifford, John C. 1905. The Luquillo Forest Reserve, Porto Rico. U.S. Dept. Agr. Bur. Forestry Bui. 54, 52 pp., illus. (11) Gilormini, Jose1 A. 1947. Manual para la propagacion de drboles y el establecimiento de plantaciones forestales en Puerto Rico. Ed. 2, 109 pp., illus. Puerto Rico Dept. Agr. Com. Servicio Forestal. (12) Gleason, H. A., and Cook, Mel. T. 1927. Plant ecology of Porto Rico. N.Y. Acad. Sci., Sci. Surv. Porto Rico Virgin Islands 7 : 1-173, illus. (13) Hill, Robert T. 1899. Notes on the forest conditions of Porto Rico. U.S. Dept. Agr. Div. Forestry Bui. 25, 48 pp., illus. (14) Holdridge. L. R. 1942-43. Arboles de Puerto Rico. U.S. Dept. Agr. Forest Serv. Trop. Forest Expt. Sta. Pub. 1, 2, illus. (15) 1942. Trees of Puerto Rico. U.S. Dept. Agr. Forest Serv., Trop. Forest Expt. Sta. Pub. 1, 2. illus. (16) and Mufioz MacCormick, Carlos. 1939. Plantas venenosas y de pelos punzantes de Puerto Rico. Revista Agr. Puerto Rico 31 : 516-522, illus. (17) Kelsey, Harlan P., and Dayton, William A. 1942. Standardized plant names. Ed. 2, 675 pp. Harris- burg, Pa. (18) Kennard, William G, and Winters, Harold F. 1960. Some fruits and nuts for the tropics. U.S. Dept. Agr. Misc. Pub. 801, 135 pp., illus. (18a) Koenig, Nathan. 1953. A comprehensive agricultural program for Puerto Rico. U.S. Dept. Agr. 299 pp.. illus. (19) Little. Elbert L., Jr. 1953. Check list of native and naturalized trees of the United States (including Alaska). U.S. Dept. Agr., Agr. Handb. 41, 472 pp. (20) 1955. Trees of Mona Island. Caribb. Forester 16 : 36-53, illus. (21) Little. Elbert L., Jr., Wadsworth, Frank H., and Marrero, Jose. 1!)()4. Arboles comunes de Puerto Rico e Islas Vir- genes. Universidad de Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. (22) Longwood, Franklin R. 1961. Puerto Rican woods; their machining, seasoning and related characteristics. U.S. Dept. Agr., Agr. Handb. 205, 98 pp., illus. (23) ■ 1962. Present and potential commercial timbers of the Caribbean with special reference to the West Indies, tlie Guianas, and British Honduras. U.S. Dept. Agr., Agr. Handb. 207, 167 pp., illus. (24) Martorell, Luis F. 1953 (1954). ;. Que arbol sembrarg? Caribb. Forester 14 : 152-160. ( 25 ) Melgarejo, Juan. 1914. Memoria y descripcion de la isla de San Juan de Puerto Rico en el ano 1582. Bol. Hist, de Puerto Rico 1 : 75-91. (26) Menninger, Edwin A. 1958. What flowering tree is that? A handbook for the tropics. 1958 Ed. 176 pp., illus. Stuart, Fla. (27) 1962. Flowering trees of the world for tropics and warm climates. 336 pp., illus. New York. (28) Morton, Julia F., and Ledin, R. Bruce. 1952. 400 plants of south Florida. 134 pp., illus. Coral Gables, Fla. (29) Murphy, Louis S. 1916. Forests of Porto Rico, past, present and future, and their physical and economic development. U.S. Dept. Agr. Bui. 354. 99 pp., illus. (30) Oakes. A. J., and Butcher, James O. 1962. Poisonous and injurious plants of the U.S. Virgin Islands. U.S. Dept. Agr. Misc. Pub. 882, 97 pp., illus. (31) Ordetx Ros, Golzalo S. 1952. Flora apicola de la America tropical. 334 pp., illus. La Habana, Cuba. (32) Otero, Jose I., Toro, Rafael A., and Pagan de Otero, Lydia. 1945. Catalogo de los nombres vulgares y cientificos de algunas plantas puertoriquenas. Ed. 2. Puerto Rico Univ. Estacion Expt. Agr. Bui. 37, 281 pp. (33) Puerto Rico. 1860-79. Presupuestos generates de ingresos y gastos corresondientes a los afios econ6micos 1860-1868 y 1874-1879. San Juan. (34) Ramos, Francisco. 1868. Prontuario de disposiciones oficiales del gobierno superior de la isla de Puerto Rico. San Juan. 531 pp. (35) Stahl, Agustin. 1936-37. Estudios sobre la flora de Puerto Rico. 6 pts. 1883-88. Ed. 2. 3 v., portr. San Juan de Puerto Rico. (36) Sturrock, David, and Menninger, Edwin A. 1946. Shade and ornamental trees for south Florida and Cuba. 172 pp., illus. Stuart, Fla. (37) Urban, Ignatius. 1903-11. Flora portoricensis. Symbolae Antillanae v. 4, 771 pp., portr. (38) Wadsworth, Frank H. 1950. Notes on the climax forests of Puerto Rico and their destruction and conservation prior to 1900. Caribb. Forester 11 : 38-17. (39) Winters, H. F., and Almeyda. N. 1953 (1954). Ornamental trees in Puerto Rico. Caribb. Forester 14: 97-105. (40) Wolcott, George N. 1950. An index to the termite-resistance of woods. Puerto Rico Univ. Agr. Expt. Sta. Bui. 85, 26 pp. 18 SPECIAL LISTS Common tree species of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands with some distinctive character, special feature, or use in common have been grouped together in various lists. These lists may be helpful in identification, in locating trees with useful products, and in selecting species for plant- ing. Only those trees outstanding for a particular character or use are included. To save space the tree species are cited by their numbers, and com- mon and scientific names may be found under "List of Tree Species with Descriptions and Illus- trations1' (pp. iv-ix). The additional species men- tioned briefly but not illustrated have been omitted. POISONOUS TREES Poisonous trees with toxic fruits, seeds, or leaves.— 65, 66, 74, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 110, 124, 125, 130, 141, 157, 168, 232. Poisonous trees with irritating sap. — 122, 123, 124,125,129,130,132,218. APPEARANCE AND TRUNK Giant trees (reaching 100 feet in height, 4 feet in trunk diameter).— 35, 69, 76, 84, 89, 90, 106, 108, 109, 111, 112, 125, 136, 149, 153, 180, 209. Large BuurRESSEs.— 21, 31, 49, 84, 89, 90, 109, 111, 134, 149, 153, 209. Prop roots (stilt roots).— 20, 21, 22, 162, 163, 179. Unbranched stem. — 1, 3, 4-10 (palm family), 174. Palms.— 4-10. Horizontal branching. — 3, 50, 69, 70, 73, 75, 147, 153, 155, 156, 157, 163, 180, 181, 184, 209, 210, 221, 222, 223, 224, 243. Spiny trunk or branches. — 4, 5, 58, 68, 70, 73, 77, 83, 84, 88, 96, 102, 103, 125, 134, 153, 175, 176, 181,247. Peeling, smooth, mottled bark. — 25, 28, 30, 42, 93, 94, 105, 132, 194, 195. Mangroves (on silt shores).— 179, 182, 183, 225. COLORED SAP OR LATEX White or milky sap or latex. — 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 105, 106, 120, 122, 123, 124, 125, 129, 130, 161, 174, 205-214 (sapodilla family), 217, 218, 219. Yellow or orange sap or latex. — 162-165 (mangosteen family), 166. Reddish sap or latex.— 28, 89, 90, 91, 229. Blackish sap. — 132. LEAVES Very large leaves (more than 1 foot long, in- cluding compound leaves). — 1, 4-10 (palms), 17, 19, 20, 26, 54, 5!), 60, 61, 72, 75, 81, 87, 107, 108, 109, 110, 141, 149, 154, 157, 159, 167, 174, 201, 229, 233. Spiny leaves.— 4, 5, 77, 88, 102, 103. Leaves reduced to scales or none. — 11, 175, 176. Fragrant or aromatic leaves (with odor when crushed).— 13, 42-51 (laurel family), 95, 96-103 (rue family), 105, 106, 107, 108, 110, 174, 185, 186, 194, 221. FLOWERS White showy flowers. — 34, 35, 54, 60, 62, 63, 64, 76, 91, 96-100 (citrus), 153, 154, 159, 160, 164, 188,€17, 218, 221, 240,247. Yellow showy flowers. — 72, 74, 77, 78, 80, 88, 89, 115, 150, 152, 167, 218, 238. Orange showy flowers.— 75, 83, 84, 150, 234. Pink showy flowers.— 68, 69, 71, 73, 81, 82, 85, 153, 166, 178, 236. Red showy flowers. — 30 (fruits), 75, 82, 84, 91, 151, 189,218,234,235,237. Blue or purple showy flowers. — 81, 86, 93, llo, 117, 152, 166, 178, 189, 230, 233. Very fragrant flowers. — 34, 35, 40, 54, 58, 60, 70, 73, 96-100 (citrus), 161, 164, 217, 218, 240. FRUITS Very large fruits (more than 6 inches long and 4 inches broad or more than 1 foot long) . — 6, 17, 18, 37, 75, 91, 164, 232. Fruit a beanlike pod. — 54, 58-91 (legume fam- ily), 217, 218, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238. USES Timber trees.— 11, 20, 26, 34, 35, 42, 48, 49, 50, 52, 60, 62, 64, 69, 70, 76, 79, 81, 87, 93, 101, 102, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 111, 112, 115, 118, 126, 131, 134, 139, 144, 149, 151, 153, 154, 161, 164, 173, 179, 180, 181, 184, 186, 191, 196, 201, 209, 211, 212, 213, 214, 221, 228, 229, 230, 236, 243. Medicinal trees (U.S. Pharmacopoeia or Dis- pensatory).—72, 80, 93, 94, 97, 98, 100, 158, 168, 194. Edible wild fruits.— 28, 29, 62, 64, 68, 69, 76, 115, 116, 130, 134, 164, 175, 176, 188 (escaped), 195, 209, 213, 243. Edible other parts (stems, leaves, flowers, young fruits, seeds). — 4, 7, 9, 17, 54, 91, 184. 19 PLANTING LISTS Trees grown in forest plantations.— 11, 52, 111, 112, 126, 161, 186, 209, 221, 228, 229, 230, 236. Trees for windbreaks.— 3, 11, 14, 28, 74, 112, 131, 152, 161, 164, 188, 189, 234, 236. Trf.es for shores (salt resistant) . — 6, 11, 28, 150, 152, 161, 163, 164, 181, 184, 214, 218. Trees for dry areas and poor sites. — 11, 54, 60, 65, 70, 76, 77, 80, 93, 94, 112, 157, 161, 181, 194. Trees for wet areas.— 3, 11, 14, 17, 20, 111, 152, 184, 186, 209. Trees for living fenceposts. — 14, 22, 54, 82, 83, 85, 105, 125, 134, 135, 150, 152, 167. Cultivated fruit trees. — 6, 17, 18, 37, 38, 39, 51, 80, 96-100 (citrus), 127, 130, 131, 133, 135, 140, 158, 164, 174, 188, 189, 195, 206, 210, 243. Shade trees for coffee and cacao. — 62, 63, 64, 81, 84, 200. Ornamental trees.— 1, 3, 6, 9, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 26, 28, 30, 39, 40, 52, 54, 57, 60, 62, 63, 64, 67, 68, 69, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 82, 83, 85, 89, 91, 93, 94, 105, 110, 111, 112, 115, 117, 131, 151, 152, 159, 161, 163, 164, 166, 167, 178, 181, 184, 188, 189, 194, 199, 206, 209, 210, 218, 223, 227, 229, 232, 233, 234, 236, 238, 246, 247. Ornamental trees also producing effective shade.— 17, 19, 21, 23, 60, 62, 63, 64, 68, 69, 73, 74, 75, 76, 78, 80, 83, 84, 89, 105, 111, 131, 163, 164, 181, 184,188,206,209,234. Ornamental trees also producing edible fruits.— 6, 17, 28, 39, 80, 131, 164, 166, 184, 188, 206,210. Ornamental trees also producing valuable timber.— 52, 60, 69, 81, 93, 94, 111, 112, 131, 161, 164, 184, 189, 206, 209, 229, 236. 20 KEY TO FAMILIES When the plant family of a tree is not known, this key to the families of the trees of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands aids identification. Eighty-eight plant families are included, all 75 with native trees and also 13 others with common introduced trees. Of these, 68 families are repre- sented in this volume, 33 by a single species illus- trated, however. Additional keys to the remain- ing 218 of the 250 tree species are inserted in the text, under all 35 families with 2 or more species illustrated. However, the related species com- pared briefly and various genera of less common trees not mentioned in the text are not keyed. Some genera have been included in the key to families also. If a plant family has only 1 or 2 genera of native trees, these generic names are cited after the family name. Also, several genera differing slightly from the main characters of their families have been inserted separately. However, this artificial key may not provide for a few odd genera and extreme variations. Intro- duced or exotic genera and families are indicated by an asterisk (*). Keys are outlines or shortcuts for identifying trees or specimens by the process of elimination. Thus, trees are divided into two groups according to one or more pairs of contrasting characters. Each group is divided successively into two smaller groups until the name is reached. The name of a particular specimen is found through selection, one by one, of the group which fits and by elimination of the others. In these indented keys, paired groups are desig- nated by the same letter, single and double, be- ginning with "A" and "AA'1 at the left of the page and are equally indented by steps. The page number refers to the descriptive text, the be- ginning of the family or genus listed. The 20 small families without page numbers are not men- tioned further or represented among the common trees described in this volume. An unpublished card key to families of West Indian trees by the senior author has served as the basis for this one. Nontechnical characters and those readily observed have been emphasized. The descriptive terms are defined under the topic "Explanation of Botanical Terms'" (p. 9). One character used in the key, presence or ab- sence of stipules (one or two scales at the base of a leaf), may be difficult to determine because the stipules sometimes are minute or shed early. Stipules can be examined best in the bud and im- mature leaves near the stem tip. Upon shedding, the stipules leave a scar, which also may be minute. Vegetative characters, especially those of leaves, are placed first in the key. Some plant families of trees can be recognized or identified by certain combinations of vegetative characters alone. How- ever, many kinds of tropical trees have foliage of similar appearance. For positive identification of many families, the reproductive characters of flowers, fruits, and seeds are needed. Even when these are lacking, old fruits may be located on dead branches or on the ground, and one tree may be found flowering out of season. Some sterile specimens, those lack- ing flowers or fruits, can be identified to family by the vegetative characters beginning the key. If not, the key will eliminate many families. Then identification can be continued by consulting the text and drawings for the remaining families. The key to families is divided into four parts ac- cording to the arrangement or position of the leaves and the number of blades. Parts 1 and 2 are for trees with alternate leaves, that is, attached singly or 1 at a point on a twig (node). Parts 3 and 4 are for trees with opposite leaves, that is, paired or 2 at a node, and also those with whorled leaves, 3 or more at a node. Parts 1 and 3 are for trees with simple leaves, with 1 blade, and Parts 2 and 4, trees with compound leaves, divided into 3 or more blades ( rarely only 2) . The first step in using this key to families is to place the unknown tree or speciment in one of the four groups listed below. Then continue the key under the part or group on the page cited. Part 1. Leaves alternate, simple (p. 22). Part 2. Leaves alternate, compound (p. 25). Part 3. Leaves opposite, simple (p. 26). Part i. Leaves opposite, compound (p. 27) . 21 PART 1. LEAVES ALTERNATE, SIMPLE A. Leaves reduced to scales or none. B. Stems succulent, spiny — Cactus Family (Cactaceae), page 376. BB. Stems with slender twigs bearing minute scale leaves 1 at a node — Tamarisk Family (Tamaricaceae;* Tamarix*) AA. Leaves larger, with flat green blade. C. Leaves parallel-veined, stems unbranched (very slender branches in bamboo). D. Leaves grasslike, divided into sheath and blade — Grass Family (Gramineae; Bambxisa*) , page 32. DD. Leaves palmlike, fan-shaped, very large, with long petiole — Palm Family (Palmae), page 34. CC. Leaves with veins forming network or inconspicuous; stems becoming branched. E. Sap or latex colored. F. Sap whitish or milky. G. Stipules present (sometimes minute or shedding early, leaving scar) ; flowers unisexual. H. Female flowers with 2 or 1 style; nodes usually with rings — Mulberry Family (Moraceae), page 60. HH. Female flowers with 3 styles; nodes without rings — Spurge Family (Euphorbiaceae), page 260. GG. Stipules absent. I. Leaves palmately lobed; flowers mostly unisexual — Papaya Family (Caricaceae;* Carica*), page 374. II. Leaves not lobed; flowers bisexual. J. Corolla of 3-5 separate petals — Cashew Family (Anacardiaceae), page 28. JJ. Corolla tubular, of united petals. K. Stamens opposite corolla lobes; fruit a berry, borne singly — Sapodilla Family (Sapotaceae), page 436 KK. Stamens alternate with corolla lobes; fruits (drupes or follicles) usually paired, 2 from a flower- Dogbane Family (Apocynaceae), page 460. FF. Sap not whitish. L. Sap orange — Anatto Family (Bixaceae;* Bixa*), page 358. LL. Sap reddish — Coccoloba uvifera, page 82. EE. Sap watery. M. Nodes with rings. N. Stipules present. O. Stipules forming sheath around twig — Buckwheat Family (Polygonaceae), page 76. 00. Stipules enclosing bud, soon shedding. P. Leaves pinnately veined, elliptic — Magnolia Family (Magnoliaceae; Magnolia) , page 94. PP. Leaves palmately veined, with 7-11 main veins from base, nearly round. Q. Leaves heart-shaped, not lobed — Mallow Family (Malvaceae; Hibiscus), page 326. QQ. Leaves very large, umbrellalike, with 7-11 rounded lobes — Cecropia, page 66. NN. Stipules absent — Piperaceae {Piper), page 50. MM. Nodes without rings. R. Leaves in 2 rows along twig. S. Leaves with swelling where petiole joins blade — Elaeocarpus Family (Elaeocarpaceae; Sloanea), page 32^ SS. Leaves without swelling on petiole. T. Stipules absent; flowers with many pistils often uniting to form 1 large many-seeded fruit — Annon Family (Annonaceae), page 100. TT. Stipules present (sometimes minute or shedding early, leaving scar) ; flowers with 1 pistil. U. Flowers unisexual or mostly so, petals none. V. Leaves asymmetrical; styles 2; fruit 1-seeded — Elm Family (Ulmaceae; Celtis, Trema), page 56. V V. Leaves symmetrical ; styles 3 ; fruit a few-seeded capsule — Spurge Family (Euphorbiaceae) , page 26 UU. Flowers bisexual; petals usually present. W. Petals 5, hood-shaped (sometimes none); stamens 5, opposite petals and often within; fru with 1-4 seeds — Buckthorn Family (Rhamnaceae), page 316. WW. Petals 3-7, broad (sometimes none); stamens 5 to many; fruit with few to many seeds. X. Style 1, ovary 1-celled — Flacourtia Family (Flacourtiaceae), page 364. XX. Styles 5, ovary 5-celled — Chocolate Family (Sterculiaceae), page 338. RR. Leaves in more than 2 rows along twig. Y. Leaves with minute gland dots. Z. Leaves not aromatic. a. Gland dots both large and small — Myoporum Family (Myoporaceae; Bontia). aa. Gland dots uniformly small — Myrsine Family (Myrsinaceae), page 430. ZZ. Leaves aromatic, with distinctive odor and taste when crushed. b. Flowers with numerous stamens but no corolla; odor and taste of eucalyptus — Eucalyptus* page 391 bb. Flowers with few stamens or if many, with petals. c. Stamens with anthers opening by pores with lids; leaves mostly elliptic with side veins long ar curved; odor and taste of spices — Laurel Family (Lauraceae), page 110. cc. Stamens with anthers splitting open lengthwise. d. Leaves with odor and taste of citrus; stamens large, separate — Rue Family (Rutaceae), page 21 dd. Leaves with peppery, stinging taste; stamens minute, united into a tube — Canella Fami . (Canellaceac; Canella), page 362. YY. Leaves without minute gland dots. e. Stipules present (sometimes minute or shedding early, leaving scar). f. Stipule a pointed scale above petiole, persistent — Coca Familv (Erythroxylaceae; Erythroxylon page 210. 22 ff. Stipules outside petiole, g. Leaves lobed. h. Leaves with 2 rounded lobes at apex and 13 or 11 veins from heart-shaped base — Bauhinia, page 168. hh. Leaves deeply palmately lobed with mostly 5 long-pointed, finely toothed lobes — Cochlospermum Family (Cochlospermaceae;* Cochlospermum*), page 360. gg. Leaves not lobed. i. Leaves long, very narrow, finely toothed — Willow Family (Salicaceae;* Salix*), page 54. ii. Leaves broad, mostly not toothed. j. Flowers minute, k. Flowers unisexual. 1. Leaves with stinging hairs — Nettle Family (Urticaceae; Urera). 11. Leaves without stinging hairs. m. Female flowers usually without petals, with 3 or 2 styles; fruit a drupe or capsule- Spurge Family (Euphorbiaceae), page 260. mm. Female flowers with usually 4 petals, 4 stigmas; fruit a berry with 4 nutlets — Holly Family (Aquifoliaceae; Ilex). kk. Flowers bisexual. n. Ovary inferior — Ginseng Family (Araliaceae; Dendropanax), page 426. nn. Ovary superior — Bittersweet Family (Celastraceae). jj. Flowers larger, often showy. 0. Fruits 2-5 from a flower, berrylike, black, borne on an enlarged red disk ; flowers yellow — Ochna Family (Ochnaceae; Ouratea). oo. Fruit 1 from a flower. p. Leaves pinnately veined; flowers with cuplike base bearing sepals, 5 petals, and mostly many separate stamens — Rose Family (Rosaceae), page 140. pp. Leaves palmately veined (pinnately veined in Quararibaea, page 336), flowers with parts inserted at base, stamens many, united into a column around pistil. q. Flowers with unbranched style — Bombax Family (Bombacaceae), page 382. qq. Flowers with style having mostly 5 branches — Mallow Family (Malvaceae), page 326. ee. Stipules absent. r. Seed exposed on 2-lobed, red fleshy base; flowers and fruits not produced; leaves lance-shaped, very narrow, thick, without lateral veins — Yew Family (Taxaceae; Podocarpus), page 30. rr. Seeds enclosed in fruits maturing from flowers; leaves various. s. Ovary inferior. t. Leaves palmately veined, petiole joining blade usually above base — Hernandia Family (Her- nandiaceae; Hernandia), page 130. tt. Leaves pinnately veined. u. Petals none or minute — Combretum Family (Combretaceae), page 386. uu. Petals present. v. Fruit a drupe less than \-> inch long, 1-seeded — Sweetleaf Family (Symplocaceae; Sym- plocos), page 456. vv. Fruit larger, various, usually many-seeded — Lecythis Family (Lecythidaceae*) . ss. Ovary superior. w. Corolla of separate petals or absent, x. Flowers unisexual. y. Calyx a cylindrical tube with 4 lobes; corolla absent — Mezereon Family (Thymeleaceae; Daphnopsis), page 380. yy. Calyx of mostly separate sepals. z. Pistils 3, each forming a drupe with 1 curved seed — Moonseed Family (Menispermaceae; Hyperbaena). zz. Pistil 1. A. Styles 3 or 2; fruit a capsule or drupe — Spurge Family (Euphorbiaceae), page 262. AA. Style 1, 3-forked; fruit of 3 winged keys — Thouinin portoricensis, page 310. xx. Flowers bisexual. B. Flowers minute. C. Flowers regular. D. Flowers in long narrow racemes, white; fruit a minute capsule — Cyrilla Family (Cyrillaceae, Cyrilla), page 298. DD. Flowers in panicles or single; fruit a drupe — Icacina Family (Icacinaceac; Mappia, Ottosehulzia). CC. Flowers irregular, with 5 unequal petals — Sabia Family (Sabiaceae, Meliosma), page 314 . BB. Flowers larger. E. Flowers regular. F. Pistils many, each with 1 style — Dillenia Family (Dilleniaceae, Dillenia*), page 344. FF. Pistil 1. G. Flowers with 4 petals, 4 to many long stamens; pistil usually stalked, with short style or none — Caper Family (Capparidaceae; Capparis, Morisonia), page 132. GG. Flowers with 5 overlapping sepals, 5 petals, many stamens, and pistil with 2-5 styles — Tea Family (Theaceae), page 346. EE. Flowers irregular, with usually 3 petals and 8 stamens united into a tube — Milkwort Family (Polygalaceae; Poly gala, Badiera), page 260. ww. Corolla of united petals. H. Stamens separate and distinct. 1. Fruit a drupe — Olax Family (Olacaceae; Schoepfia, Ximcnia). II. Fruit a capsule — Heath Family (Ericaceae; Lyonia). 687-021 0—64* 3 23 HH. Stamens inserted on corolla. J. Stamens 2-3 times as many as corolla lobes. K. Flowers unisexual (dioecious), styles 2-6; fruit fleshy, few-seeded — Ebony Family (Ebenaceae; Diospyros). KK. Flowers bisexual, style 1; fruit dry, 1-seeded — Snowbell Family (Styracaceae; Styrax). 55. Stamens as many as corolla lobes or fewer. L. Flowers regular. M. Style 1; fruit a berry — Nightshade Family (Solanaceae), page 488. MM. Styles 2 or divided into 4 forks; fruit a drupe or 1-4 nutlets — Borage Family (Bora- ginaceae), page 466. LL. Flowers irregular, large, with long corolla tube — Bignonia Family (Bignoniaceae; Enal- lagma) . 24 PART 2. LEAVES ALTERNATE, COMPOUND A. Leaves pinnate, including bipinnate and tripinnate. B. Leaves bipinnate or tripinnate. C. Leaves fernlike, coiled at tip when growing, bearing spores in brown dots beneath; stems unbranched — Tree- fern Family (Cyatheaceae; Cyathea, Hemitelia), page 28. CC. Leaves not fernlike; stems becoming branched. D. Leaflets long-pointed, edges toothed — Melia* page 246. DD. Leaflets rounded or short-pointed at apex, edges not toothed. E. Fruit a pod (legume) with beanlike seeds- — Legume Family (Leguminosae), page 142. EE. Fruit a long 3-angled capsule with winged seeds — Horseradish-tree Family (Moringaceae;* Moringa*), page 134. BB. Leaves once pinnate. F. Leaflets parallel-veined, leaves palmlike, very large, with Ions petiole; stems unbranched — Palm Family (Pal- mae), page 34. FF. Leaflets with veins forming network or inconspicuous; stems becoming branched. G. Leaflets deeply divided into narrow segments, white hairy beneath; leaves fernlike, almost bipinnate — Protea Family (Proteaceae;* Grevillea*) . GG. Leaflets not deeply divided or lobed. H. Stipules usually present; fruit a pod (legume) with beanlike seeds — Legume Family (Leguminosae), page 142. HH. Stipules absent; fruits and seeds various. I. Sap whitish or of other color, resinous. J. Flowers with 1 very short style, stamens twice as many as petals— Bursera Family (Burseraceae) , page 258. JJ. Flowers with 3-5 stigmas or styles, stamens as many or twice as many as petals — Cashew Family (Anacardiaceae), page 286. II. Sap watery. K. Leaflets with minute gland dots, with citruslike odor when crushed — Rue Family (Rutaceae), page 220. KK. Leaflets without gland dots. L. Leaves with 13-19 lanceolate asymmetrical leaflets, sharply toothed, long-pointed; fruit a walnut — Walnut Family (Juglandaceae, Juglans). LL. Leaves and fruit otherwise. M. Flowers with 2-5 pistils or 1 lobed pistil and with 2-5 styles or stigmas; bark and sap bitter — Ailanthus Family (Simaroubaceae), page 236. MM. Flowers with 1 pistil and 1 style. N. Flowers mostly unisexual, stamens 5-10, separate — Soapberry Family (Sapindaceae), page 302. NN. Flowers bisexual, with mostly 8—10 stamens united into a tube (separate in Cedrela) — Ma- hogany Family (Meliaceae), page 244. AA. Leaves digitate (palmate) or with 3 leaflets (trifoliolate). O. Leaflets with minute gland dots, with citruslike odor when crushed — Rue Family (Rutaceae; Amyris, Pilocarpus), page 220. OO. Leaflets without gland dots. P. Leaflets 3. Q. Stipules usually present; fruit a pod (legume) with beanlike seeds — Erythrina, page I'M). QQ. Stipules absent; fruit a drupe or winged key — Soapberry Family (Sapindaceae), page 302. PP. Leaflets 5 or more. R. Flowers minute; fruit a small, slightly fleshy berry, 2-seeded — Ginseng Family (Araliaceae; Didymopanax), page 426. RR. Flowers large, with 5 whitish petals; fruit a large oblong capsule with hairy seeds — Bombax Family (Bomba- caceae; Ceiba), page 332. 25 PART 3. LEAVES OPPOSITE, SIMPLE A. Leaves reduced to scales or needles, opposite or whorled. B. Leaves consisting of minute scales 6-8 or more in a whorl on wiry green jointed twigs — Casuarina Family (Casu- arinaceae;* Casuarina*), page 48. BB. Leaves of minute scales 2-3 at a node or long needles 2-5 in a bundle, resinous — Pine Family (Pinaceae;* Cupres- sus,* Pinus*). AA. Leaves larger, with flat green blade, opposite or sometimes whorled. C. Sap or latex colored. D. Sap whitish or milk}'. E. Leaves 3-8 at a node, with petiole longer than the small, nearly round blade — Euphorbia, page 270. EE. Leaves 2-4 at a node, with short petiole and long- or short-pointed blade — Dogbane Family (Apocynaceae), page 460. DD. Sap not whitish. F. Sap yellow or orange (whitish in Calophyllum) — Mangosteen Family (Guttiferae), page 348. FF. Sap of young leaves reddish — Tectona,* page 484. CC. Sap watery. G. Stipules present (sometimes minute or shedding early, leaving scar). H. Nodes with rings. I. Stipules forming sheath around twig or paired and persistent. J. Leaves toothed — Chloranthus Family (Chloranthaccae; Hedyosmum), page 52 JJ. Leaves not toothed — Madder Family (Rubiaceae), page 504. II. Stipules not forming sheath, single, shedding early — Mangrove Family (Rhizophoraceae; Cassipourea Rhizophora), page 384. HH. Nodes without rings. K. Flowers small, inconspicuous. L. Petals 4 or 5, spreading; stamens alternate with petals — Bittersweet Family (Celastraceae). LL. Petals 5 (sometimes none;, hood-shaped; stamens opposite petals and often within — Buckthorn Family (Rhamnaceae), page 316. KK. Flowers larger, often showy; petals fringed, with narrow stalk. M. Petals 5; fruit a drupe — Malpighia Family (Malpighiaceae), page 256. MM. Petals mostly 6, sometimes 4 or 5; fruit a capsule — Loosestrife Family (Lythraceae; Ginoria, Lager-- slroemia*), page 382. GG. Stipules absent. N. Leaves with 3-9 main veins from base, mostly elliptic, side veins curved, many smaller veins straight and, parallel — Melastome Family (Melastomataceae), page 418. NN. Leaves with 1 main vein (midrib). 0. Leaves coarsely toothed; flowers in a head — Composite Family (Gompositae; Clibadium, Eupatorium), page 526. 00. Leaves not toothed or finely toothed; flowers not in heads. P. Petioles with 2 glands near blade — Laguncularia, page 392. PP. Petioles without glands. Q. Ovary inferior. R. Stamens 10, petals 5 — Mouriri (Melastomataceae). RR. Stamens numerous. S. Petals 4-5, rounded, mostly white; leaves with minute gland dots — Myrtle Family (Myrtaceae), page 396. SS. Petals 5-7, large, rounded, wrinkled, stalked, scarlet or white — Pomegranate Family (Punicaceae;*1 Punica*). QQ. Ovary superior, stamens 10 or fewer. T. Corolla absent or of separate petals; flowers mostly unisexual. U. Stamens 2-10, separate or united. V. Ovary exposed, 2-celled; corolla when present of 4 narrow white petals — Olive Family (Olea- ceae), page 458. VV. Ovary enclosed in calyx tube, 1-celled; corolla absent — Four-o'Clock Family (Nyctaginaceae), page 88. UU. Stamens 8, in 2 sets of 4, inserted in calyx tube — Mezereon Familv (Thvmeleaceae; Daphnopsis), page 380. TT. Corolla of united petals; flowers bisexual. W. Leaves with minute gland dots, aromatic, with citruslike odor when crushed — Ravenia (Rutaceae). WW. Leaves without gland dots, not aromatic. X. Flowers regular, with 5-lobed spreading, waxy, orange or white corolla; fruit a berry — Theo- phrasta Family (Theophrastaceae; Jaquinia). XX. Flowers irregular. Y. Corolla tube short; fruit a drupe or 1-4 nutlets — Verbena Family (Verbenaceae), page 476. YY. Corolla tube long; fruit a capsule with winged seeds or a berry — Bignonia Family (Big- noniaceae), page 490. 26 PART 4. LEAVES OPPOSITE, COMPOUND A. Leaves pinnate (bipinnate in Jacaranda, page 492). B. Nodes with rings. C. Leaflets all paired (even pinnate), 4-10, oblique or asymmetrical, not toothed — Caltrop Family (Zygophyllaceae; Guaiacum), page 212. CC. Leaflets of odd number (odd pinnate), symmetrical or nearly so, toothed. D. Leaf axis winged; leaflets rounded at apex — Cunonia Family (Cunoniaceae; Weinmannia), page 138. DD. Leaf axis not winged; leaflets pointed at apex. E. Leaflets 3-7, those at base deeply toothed and often divided into 3 lobes or leaflets — Honeysuckle Family (Caprifoliaceae ; Sambucus) . EE. Leaflets finely toothed, not lobed. F. Leaflets 5-11, elliptic or ovate, hairless or nearly so — Bladdernut Family (Staphyleaceae; Turpinia), page 300. FF. Leaflets 11-15, lance-shaped, densely hairy — Brunellia Family (Brunelliaceae; Brunellia), page 13(3. BB. Nodes without rings. G. Leaflets all paired (even pinnate), 2-8 — Matayba, page 304. GG. Leaflets of odd number (odd pinnate). H. Leaves with minute gland dots, aromatic, with citruslike odor when crushed — Amyris, pat;1, 216. HH. Leaves without gland dots, not aromatic — Bignonia Family (Bignoniaceae), page 490. AA. Leaves digitate (palmate) or with 3 leaflets (trifoliolate) . I. Leaflets with minute gland dots, aromatic, with citruslike odor when crushed — Amyris, page 216. II. Leaflets without gland dots, not aromatic. J. Flowers with short corolla tube; fruit a drupe — Vitex, page 486. JJ. Flowers with long corolla tube; fruit a long narrow capsule with many winged seeds — Tabebuia, page 496. 27 TREE SPECIES, DESCRIPTIONS AND ILLUSTRATIONS TREE-FERN FAMILY (CYATHEACEAE) 1. Helecho gigante, tree-fern Cyathea arborea (L.) J. E. Smith Tree-ferns, among the most beautiful plants of tropical mountains, are common in Puerto Rico. They are readily recognized as ferns by their lace- like fern leaves unrolling from a coil at the apex and by the absence of flowers, fruits, and seeds, while their slender unbranched trunks, leafy only at the summit, qualify them as trees. This species, the commonest of 5 or 6 kinds of trunked ferns reaching tree size in Puerto Rico, is characterized by: (1) slender unbranched brown trunk, scaly but spineless, usually with large oval leaf scars in the upper part and bearing at apex a crown of about 10-18 large spreading leaves; (2) feathery (3-pinnate) leaves mostly 6-10 feet long, the thin blade divided 3 times, ending in a long pointed tip curved downward; and (3) small brown ball-like masses less than V16 inch in diameter, borne on the underside of some leaves and producing numerous powdery spores. A very handsome small evergreen tree to 30 feet or more in height, with trunk 3-5 inches in diame- ter and stately crown of graceful leaves, ovate in general outline. This species is spineless through- out, though certain kinds have spiny trunks and leaf axes. There is no conspicuous bud, but usu- ally 1-4 young unrolling leaves, actually alternate though crowded. A mature leaf has a light brown axis scaly at base and many yellow-green secondary axes as much as 2 feet long, each bearing feathery taper- ing branches less than 6 inches long. The* numer- ous regularly arranged leaf segments are narrowly oblong, % inch or less in length, rounded at apex, and with the minutely wavy-toothed edges turned under. The thin segments are yellow green on both sides. A dead leaf soon falls, leaving a large oval scar. Some older leaves bear minute brown balls or beads (sori) in 2 rows on under surface of seg- ments, composed of numerous spore cases (spor- angia) which shed powdery masses of microscopic spores. Under favorable conditions spores, like seeds, develop into new plants. Trunks of giant ferns differ from those of most trees in several ways. The smoothish surface is brown and scaly, often covered below with masses of smaller plants, such as mosses, liverworts, and ferns, and with many small black roots projecting from the enlarged base. Not divided into bark and wood, the trunk does not grow in diameter. There is a hard black outer layer % inch or more in thickness and a central white soft pith contain- ing a ring of brown bundles which serve for con- duction and strength. Though not solid wood, the hard trunks are dur- able and resistant to decay and termites. Else- where, trunks of tree-ferns have served as posts, frameworks of houses, supports for vanilla plants and other orchids, and as water bars for drainage along mountain trails. The Carib Indians used the stems to preserve and carry fire, which can be maintained for hours without smoke or flames. These luxuriant ferns seem to thrive following opening of the areas and construction of mountain roads, often growing abundantly along the cut roadside banks. One of the most easily accessible areas for viewing these odd plants is along tne highway crossing the Luquillo Mountains. Though very ornamental in their native moun- tains, tree-ferns seldom are cultivated in Puerto Rico. It is reported that small plants can be trans- planted successfully and garden-grown in moist regions, even at sea level. In lower and upper mountain forests of Puerto Rico growing as a small understory tree and es- pecially common in open areas such as ravines, banks, and roadsides. Also recorded from St. Thomas and Tortola, now probably rare on the latter and not observed there in 1954. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Range. — Greater Antilles, St, Thomas. Tortola, and Lesser Antilles in Saba, St. Kitts, Nevis, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Montserrat, Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and Grenada. Also in Trin- idad. Recorded as rare in lowlands of eastern Mexico. Other common names. — helecho arboreo, hel- echo, palmilla, camaron, camaroncillo (Puerto Rico) ; camaron, helecho arbol, palmera sin espinas (Cuba) ; tree-fern (English). Several species of trunked ferns of this and re- lated genera (Hemitelia and AfaopMla) are native in mountain forests of Puerto Rico though uncom- mon to rare and usually not reaching tree size. A related large tree-fern with small spines on the trunk is Cyathea brittoniana Maxon. Another large tree-fern with leaves only twice pinnate (2- pinnate) and with spines is C. pubescent Mett. 28 1. Helecho gigante, tree-fern Cyathea arborea (L.) J. E. Smith Lower leaf surface (above) and upper leaf surface (below), natural size. 29 YEW FAMILY (TAXACEAE) 2. Caobilla, podocarp The only native conifer of Puerto Rico is this medium-sized tree of mountain forests. It is dis- tinguished by the crowded, very narrow, lance- shaped leaves 214-6 inches long and less than y2 inch wide, long-pointed, leathery, stiff, and with- out visible lateral veins. There are no true flowers or fruits, but the brown seeds %6 inch long are borne singly and exposed on an enlarged 2-lobed red juicy base. Pollen is produced on other or male trees (dioecious) in narrow yellow-green cones 1-1 V2 inches long and 1/4 inch in diameter. An evergreen tree becoming 30 feet high and 1 foot or more in trunk diameter, with narrow to spreading crown. Bark is smoothish and scaly, becoming rough, fissured, shaggy, and peeling off in brown or gray strips about y± inch thick. Inner bark is pink, tasteless or slightly bitter. Twigs are green and angled when young, becoming brown and round. The alternate leaves are narrowed and nearly stalkless at base, sometimes slightly curved or sickle-shaped, with edges straight and slightly turned under, the upper surface dark green and slightly shiny, and lower surface green to yellow green. Male or pollen-bearing cones are single at base of leaves, stalkless and cylindrical, yellow green, turning brown after pollen is shed. Seeds are also single at leaf bases, naked, small and gray at time of pollination, brown, elliptic, and pointed at ma- turity. Each seed is attached to a base (recep- tacle) % inch long and broad, which is bright red but becoming dark red and which has a stalk 1/4~% mcn long. Pollen and seeds are produced nearly through the year. Podocarpus coriaceus L. C. Rich. The sapwood is whitish or pinkish, and the heartwood yellowish or brown. The wood is soft, moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.7), and easily worked. It is suitable for fine cabinetwork and furniture. However, in Puerto Rico the trees are usually small and of poor form and therefore yield little usable wood. In upper mountain forests of western Puerto Rico, almost confined to the Maricao Forest but also at Cerro Gordo near San German. Also rare and local as a shrub 4 feet high in the dwarf forest east of El Yunque summit in the Luquillo Moun- tains, eastern Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Luquillo, Maricao. Range. — Puerto Rico, Lesser Antilles on St. Kitts, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Mar- tinique, and St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. Other common names. — caoba del pais (Puerto Rico) ; podocarp, podocarpus (English, com- merce) ; weedee (Nevis) ; wild pitch pine (Mont- serrat) ; raisinier montagne (Dominica) ; wild pine (Trinidad); laurier-rose (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonym. — Nageia coriacea (L. C. Rich.) Kuntze. This coniferous or cone-bearing tree is classed with the gymnosperms, seed plants without true flowers or fruits but with exposed or naked seeds. Conifers, or softwoods, include some of the world's most valuable timber trees, such as pines, Douglas- fir, spruces, firs, and cedars. Puerto Rico has three other native species of gymnosperms, dwarf shrubby cycads with enlarged underground stems and known as maranguey (genus Zamia). 30 2. Caobilla, podocarp Natural size. Podocarpus coriaceus L. C. Rich. GRASS FAMILY (GRAMINEAE) 3. Bambii, common bamboo Bamboos, giant introduced evergreen grasses with clustered, jointed hollow stems and feathery foliage, are so different that they are not likely to be confused with any other trees. Perhaps they are not trees at all, because they grow in clumps of several stems, like many shrubs, and do not have a single trunk from the base. Their large treelike size and usefulness justify their inclusion here. The first and by far the commonest of about 30 exotic species of bamboo, this species was intro- duced into Puerto Rico more than a century ago and thus is sometimes incorrectly called native bamboo. It is difficult to distinguish between some of the different species, as the flowers needed for positive identification are rarely produced. However, as a group bamboos are easily recog- nized by: (1) clusters of several to many slender, tapering, slightly curved stems 2-4 inches in diam- eter, dark green to orange, with swollen rings or joints 8-18 inches apart; (2) several very slender branches spreading horizontally and regularly at the joints; and (3) grass leaves in 2 rows, consist- ing of basal sheath around the slender twig and long-pointed blade with many lateral veins paral- lel with midrib. In this species stems (culms) attain 30-50 feet in height and toward the top diverge from the center. The smooth surface, green to dark green, becomes orange or yellow in age. From a distance the plant appears like a clump of giant ferns. The slender lateral branches, about 14 inch in di- ameter, are nearly horizontal and bear wirelike yellow-green twigs. Spines are absent in this species. A horticultural variety has variegated stems with yellow and green vertical stripes. The light green leaf sheaths are l1/^-^1/^ inches long, closely fitting the twig. Blades are 6-10 inches long and %-l% inches wide, or as short as 2 inches at base of twig, with rough edges, long- pointed at apex and short -pointed where narrowed and jointed into sheath. The upper surface of the flat thin blade is green and slightly shiny, the lower surface pale blue green. The large bamboos bloom only once. Generally, after a long period of many years of growth, many plants growing together flower simultaneously, produce seeds, and then die. Like most other grasses, bamboos have inconspicuous flowers usually light brown or straw colored. The flower cluster (panicle) of this species is composed of slender branches bearing bracted clusters of 3-15 or more stalkless spikelets V^-% mcn l°n£o oblong and pointed, each with several to many flowers (florets) about % inch long. The flower has 2 narrow scales, 6 stamens with purple protruding anthers, and pistil, producing an oblong grain. Not divided into bark and wood, the stem is hol- low except at the nodes, lightweight, hard, and Bambusa vulgaris Schrad.* strong. It completes its height growth from the clustered roots at base in about 3 months, elongat- ing very rapidly as much as 8 inches daily. Nor does it expand in diameter after it is first formed. A new growing shoot at the outside of a clump is readily distinguished by the absence of branches and by the presence at each node or joint of a large leaf, with triangular spreading blade. These clasping leaves along the main axis have a very large gray-green sheath 6-12 inches long, extend- ing nearly to the next node and bearing many brown needlelike hairs that stick in the flesh when touched, and a short triangular pointed yellow- green blade 2-3 inches long and broad, also with a few brown hairs. Toward the apex of the elongat- ing stem the leaves are closer together and over- lapping. Bamboos of this and other species have many uses besides ornament and pasture shade. Their masses of intertwining roots and accumulations of leaf litter check erosion on roadside banks and slopes. Poles of various kinds for construction, fences, fenceposts, ladders, tool handles, flagpoles, and stakes are easily made from bamboo. The stems will serve as temporary water pipes after opening them on one side at each node and remov- ing the partitions. Short pieces are used as pots for seedlings to be transplanted later. Bamboo boards can be prepared by slitting, splitting, and spreading open the stems, and the split pieces woven into baskets. Bamboo stems have been uti- lized in the manufacture of various articles, in- cluding furniture, lattices, fishing rods, picture frames, lampshades, mats, and flower vases. This is not the best bamboo because the stems are now resistant to damage by the bamboo powder-post beetle (Dinoderus minutus (F.) ) as are those of certain more recently introduced species. Also very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. With outer scales removed, the tender growing tips of bamboo shoots can be eaten by boiling about one-half hour and changing the water once or twice to remove any bitter taste. There is no; distinct flavor except for a slight suggestion of young corn. Bamboo shoots are prepared in meat stews, salads, and other ways. This species is commonly planted throughout Puerto Rico in moist soil, such as along streams and roadsides and for ornament because of the attrac- tive feathery foliage. Also in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Spreading from cultiva- tion but not naturalized as it does not grow ordi- narily from seeds. However, in the Lesser Antilles natural vegetative propagation by breaking and rooting: of the fragile short branches occurs. ♦Exotic, or introduced. Species (or families) with scien- tific names followed by an asterisk are not native in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. 32 3. Bambu, common bamboo Leafy twig (right), natural size. Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. 33 Range.- — Native of tropical Asia but widely planted throughout the tropics. West Indies from Cuba to Trinidad, and from Mexico to South America. Also grown in southern Florida. Other common names. — bambua, cafia India (Puerto Rico) ; bambu (Spanish) ; cafia brava, canambu, pito (Cuba) ; caiiaza (Panama) ; com- mon bamboo, feathery bamboo, bamboo (United States, English) ; bambou (French) ; bamboe (Dutch). Another generic name formerly employed is Barnbos. PALM FAMILY (PALMAE) Key to the 7 species illustrated (Nos. 4-10) A. Leaves pinnate. B. Spines on trunk and leaf axes. C. Leaf segments long-pointed ; trunk stout — 1. Acrocomia media. CC. Leaf segments ending in a broad jagged edge as if torn; trunk slender — 5. Aiphanes acanthophylla. BB. Spines absent. D. Leaf sheaths splitting open. E. Leaves many, 12-20 feet long ; fruit the familiar, large, edible coconut — 6. Cocos nucifera*. EE. Leaves several, 5-7 feet long ; fruits about % inch in diameter. F. Leaf segments spreading flat along axis and not overlapping — 7. Euterpe globosa. FF. Leaf segments erect and spreading in 2 rows on each side of axis — 8. Gaussia attenuata. DD. Leaf sheaths forming long column at apex of trunk — 9. Roystonea borinquena. AA. Leaves fan-shaped — 10. Sabal causiarum. 4. Corozo, prickly palm, Puerto Rico acrocomia Corozo, a robust palm and 1 of the 2 Puerto Rican spiny species, is characterized by : ( 1 ) the stout straight trunk 8-12 inches in diameter at base but slightly enlarged and bulging above, bear- ing rings of long slender black spines; (2) long pinnate leaves 10-13 feet long with spiny axis and numerous tilted narrow long-pointed leaflets or segments as much as 2 feet long and only ^-% inch wide; (3) flower clusters 3-5 feet long, with spiny stalk and branches bearing small pale yel- low stalkless flowers, many crowded male flowers %6 in°b long, and in lower part of branches a few female flowers % inch long; and (4) yellow rounded dry fruits about 1% inches in diameter, containing i large edible seed. Easily distinguished from the other native robust species, palma real {Roystonea borinquena O. F. Cook), by the spiny trunk, the much rounder, denser, and more compact crown com- posed of many more leaves, the absence of the long columnar green leaf sheaths, and the absence of the unopened vertical leaf in the top. A medium-sized robust palm becoming 40 feet tall. The stout unbranched trunk is cylindrical or slightly enlarged above the base to as much as 20 inches in diameter, tapering above and below. The gray trunk has a smooth surface with faint horizontal rings of leaf scars about 2-3 inches apart, but is very spiny, especially in the upper part, often shedding some spines below. These black spines are 2-3 inches long, sometimes as much as 4-6 inches. At the apex the evergreen crown is composed of as many as 40 alternate leaves, erect, spreading, and drooping. The leaf segments are not crowded and arise from the axis tilted or at an angle, rather than flat, and curve downward. They are leathery, parallel - veined, and shiny above and dull blue green be- neath. Dead leaves hang down and fall off smoothly. The large drooping flower clusters (panicles) Acrocomia media O. F. Cook are subtended by 2 hairy, spiny sheaths (spathes) , the outer 4-5 feet long, long-pointed, curved, and shading the axis of flowers, and the inner up to 2 feet long. Male and female flowers are produced on the same branch (monoecious). Branches 4—8 inches long bear crowded male flowers, which have 3 small ovate sepals, a 3-lobed corolla, 6 stamens at top of corolla tube, and rudimentary pistil. Female flowers are scattered, 2-5 on lower part of a branch, rounded, with 3 small scalelike sepals, 3 overlapping petals, and pistil with 3-celled ovary and 3 styles. The rounded fruit, which changes in color from green to yellow at maturity, has a minute point at apex, a firmly fibrous husk, and a bony inner layer with 3 pores near middle. The single seed 1 inch long has whitish oily contents and is edible. Probably flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The very hard wood from the outer part of the trunk has attractive black markings and has been used for flooring or cut into walking sticks. The hard-shelled seeds are edible, with flavor suggest- ing coconuts, and yield an oil. They are some- times carved into rings. The seed oil of a related species is extracted commercially. Though this palm has been suggested as an ornamental, the many spines are objectionable. Found in fields and woodlands in the coastal forest regions and in the moist limestone region. Also in St. Thomas. Introduced in St. Croix. Pitblic forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susiia. Range. — Restricted to Puerto Rico and St. Thomas. Introduced in St. Croix. Other common names. — palma de corozo (Puerto Rico) ; Puerto Rico acrocomia (English). Formerly included in Acrocomia aculeata (Jacq.) Lodd., a related species of the Lesser Antilles from Dominica and Martinque to Grenada. 34 4. Corozo, prickly palm, Puerto Rico acrocomia Fruits (lower left) and male flowers (lower right), natural size. Acrocomia media O. F. Cook 35 PALM FAMILY (PALMAE) 5. Palma de coyor This slender palm, 1 of the 2 native spiny species, is recognized by: (1) numerous slender flattened black spines or prickles y^-^Vi inches long on the slender trunk, the leaf bases and axis and infre- quently the, under side of blades, and on the axes of flower clusters ; (2) about 10-12 erect to spread- ing pinnate leaves 10-12 feet long and 3 feet across, the leaflets or segments ending in a jagged edge as if torn ; (3) many small stalkless pale light yellow flowers, male and female, crowded on slender drooping branches of a very spiny curved axis 2>-Ay~2 feet long; and (4) very numerous bright red, cherrylike, fleshy fruits %-% inch in diameter. A small to medium-sized palm to 40 feet high, evergreen, with slender, straight, erect, un- branched trunk 4—8 inches in diameter, not taper- ing. Only slightly enlarged at the base, which bears a mass of spiny prop roots. The light brown trunk has indistinct rings of old leaf scars 3 inches or less apart and bears rings of many flattened black spines 1-2 inches long, pointed downward a little. Spines on old trunks often are fewer or nearly absent. Inside the hard smooth surface of the trunk is a very thin brown layer; next, a thin layer of whitish fibers, then a very hard black woody ring 14 mcn or more in width, and in the center the soft whitish pith with scattered woody fibers. Several alternate very large coarse leaves are at- tached 3 inches or less apart in a terminal cluster at apex of trunk. The stout spiny petiole about 4 feet long, gray to green, is grooved above and enlarged at base, being attached more than half- way around the trunk, but has no encircling sheath. The blade, about 7-8 feet long, is composed of many narrow leaflets or segments 2-2^2 feet long and 21/2-31/2 inches wide, narrowest at base and widest, at end. These alternate segments spread nearly horizontally on both sides of the keeled green axis. Toward apex the segments become shorter and in about the last 1 foot of blade are in 1 piece not split apart. They are leathery, paral- lel-veined, green and slightly shiny on upper sur- face and dull light green beneath. Slender flat- Aiphanes acanthophylla (Mart.) Burret tened black spines about 1 inch long are scattered along lower part of leaf axis, and a few are borne on under side of segments. Old dead leaves hang down vertically until they separate smoothly from the trunk. Curved drooping flower clusters (panicles) are 8-414 feet long, borne singly inside base of old leaves. The densely spiny axis has 2 brownish spiny sheaths (spathes), the short outer one less than 1 foot long and 2-pointed, and the inner one long and narrow and very spiny, about as long as the axis and 2y2 inches wide. Many very slender drooping branches about 9 inches long, light yel- low and spineless, bear very numerous stalkless light yellow or whitish male and female flowers (monoecious) ; the female flowers scattered along lower part of branch, 1 below 2 male flowers. Male flowers Vi inch across consist of 3 minute pointed sepals, 3 widely spreading pointed light yellow petals more than % inch long, 0 widely spreading light yellow stamens nearly as long as ]>etals, and rudimentary pistil. Female flowers have 3 minute sepals, corolla with 3 pointed light yellow lobes Vs inch long, and whitish pistil less than y8 inch long with 3-celled ovary and pointed style. Fruits are produced in great quantities, several on the lower part of each branch of the axis. They are slightly broader than long, whitish green when immature, turning to shiny bright red. The thin orange flesh is mealy and tasteless. The single brown seed is rounded, about 7/16 inch in diameter, its surface much pitted. Inside the hard shell is a white edible oily nutmeat, suggesting coconut in taste though much smaller. Flowering and fruit- ing probably through the year. Found in the moist limestone forests of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Cambalache, Rio Abajo. Range. — Known only from Puerto Rico. Other common names. — coyore, coyure, coyora (Puerto Rico) ; coyure ruffle-palm (English). Botanical synonym. — Bactris acanthophyUa Mart. 36 5. PaLma de coyor Aiphanes acanthophylla (Mart.) tfurret Flowers (lower left) and fruits (lower right), natural size. PALM FAMILY (PALMAE) 6. Palma de coco, coconut Coconut, the graceful palm lining tropical shores and widely planted for fruit and ornament, is so well known that it has become a symbol of the tropics. Descriptive features are: (1) the slender often leaning trunk, enlarged at base, ringed above and 8-12 inches in diameter; (2) many pinnate leaves 12-20 feet long with basal sheath of coarse brown fibers, long petiole, and numerous very nar- row shiny yellow-green segments spreading regu- larly in 1 plane on both sides of axis; (3) numer- ous whitish or pale yellow male and female flowers in branched flower clusters at leaf bases; and (4) fruit the familiar coconut, egg-shaped or elliptic, consisting of a light brown fibrous husk 8-12 inches long, a hard shell, and 1 very large hollow seed with whitish, oily, edible flesh. Medium-sized palm, usually 30-60 feet high, sometimes taller. The slender trunk is enlarged to 16-20 inches in diameter at base, often slightly inclined there, and may be leaning as a result of the constant coastal breeze or after partial uproot- ing by a hurricane. The gray or brown trunk is slightly cracked. At apex is the relatively broad evergreen crown of alternate, erect, spreading, and drooping leaves. The basal sheath is nearly 2 feet high on sides of petiole, surrounds the axis, and breaks as the younger leaves expand. The stout yellowish slightly concave petiole is 3-5 feet long, and the blade 9-15 feet long and 3-5 feet wide. The lin- ear leaflets or segments are 2-3^ feet long and 2 inches wide, shorter toward apex, long-pointed, leathery, parallel-veined, shiny yellow green above, and dull light green beneath. The lowest, dead leaves hang down against the trunk, eventu- ally shedding and forming a smooth ring scar. Flower clusters (panicles) 3-4 feet long rise from 2 long, narrow, long-pointed sheaths (spath.es), the inner about 4 feet long, and bear many slightly fragrant stalkless flowers. A branch about 1 foot long has numerous small male flowers and near the base 1 much larger female flower, which opens later (monoecious). Male flowers %-1/^> inch long and broad have 3 small, pointed, whitish sepals ys inch long, 3 oblong petals nearly l/2 mcn l°nff? ® widely spreading sta- mens, and sterile pistil with 3 styles. Female flowers about 114 inch long and broad, rounded or 3-angled, have 2 broad scales at base, 3 broad round sepals %-l inch long, 3 rounded whitish or light yellow rounded petals 1-1 1/4 inches long, and light green pistil I14 inches long with 3-celled ovary and 3 minute stigmas. The coconut has a bluntly 3-angled husk %-li/£ inches thick, which does not split open. The ellip- tic or nearly round inner brown fruit with 3 round spots near one end is essentially a seed covered with the hairy hard outer shell. Inside is a 38 Cocos nucifera L.* slightly sweet oily layer of stored food % inch thick and a large central cavity containing a watery or milky liquid. This is one of the largest seeds known, surpassed only by the 1-seeded 2-lobed fruit weighing up to 50 pounds of the double-coconut (Lodoicea maldivica), a tall fan palm of Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. Flower- ing and fruiting continuously through the year. Ranking among the 10 most useful tree species to mankind in the world, coconut is the most im- portant of cultivated palms. The fruits are eaten raw, prepared into candies, or shredded with pas- tries. When immature, the soft jellylike flesh can be eaten with a spoon. The watery liquid of green fruits and the milky juice of mature ones are pure, nutritious, cool, and refreshing drinks. Known as cocos de agua, these green fruits are sold on city streets. Under the name copra the dried white oily part of ripe fruits is marketed in large quantities for the manufacture of soaps and coco- nut oil, the latter for preparing margarine and other foods and for cooking. Classed also as a honey plant. The sugary sap collected from cut unopened flower clusters is a fresh beverage known as toddy and a source of alcohol. The trunks serve for posts. Walking sticks have been made from the outer layer or ring of the trunk. The inner part is a very soft, light brown pith with scattered reddish-brown bundles. The leaves furnish thatch for roofs and shelters and have been made into lattice screens and fences. Various articles, such as novelties, souvenirs, cups, and flower pots, are made from the husks and shells. The shells have also been used for kitchen implements and for high-grade charcoal. In other regions of the world different parts of the plant serve many purposes. Coconut fiber, or coir, is made into mats, ropes, brooms, and I brushes. Certainly coconuts are among the most impor- tant trees of Puerto Rico, with plantations or orchards totaling nearly 10,000 acres, mostly along the sandy shores of the island and especially on the northern coast. The trees thrive also in the interior where soil moisture is ample and are hardy in dry climates if irrigated. In plantings for ornament the falling coconuts may be danger- ous. Commonly growing wild along sandy shores and planted as a fruit, ornamental, and shade tree near houses and along streets. Also in Mona, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native land unknown but thought to be in Malayan or Indo-Pacific region. Now thor- oughly naturalized on tropical shores of the world. Naturalized in southern Florida including Florida Keys, through West Indies, and from Mexico to South America. 6. Palma de coco, coconut 087-921 O— 64— — 4 Male flowers and one female flower (lower left), two-thirds natural size. Cocos nucifera L. 39 This palm has been cultivated so long, so widely disseminated by mankind, and so well naturalized on tropical shores that its origin is lost in an- tiquity. One belief, now discredited, was that its home was American. Columbus did not find it, and most early Spanish writers in the New World did not mention it. Nevertheless, within a cen- tury after Columbus this valuable palm arrived in Puerto Rico. Joseph de Acosta (1539-1600), a Jesuit missionary in Peru from 1571 to 1587, in his book "Natural History of the Indies," pub- lished in 1590 after his return to Spain, stated that he saw a coconut growing in Puerto Rico. An- other Spanish traveler in Puerto Rico in 1599 mentioned the milk of coconut as "cosmetic for the ladies." In some of the Antilles, however, the coconut apparently was not known until the fol- lowing century. As early as 1526, Oviedo men- tioned large stands, apparently native, on the Pacific coast at Burica Point, Costa Rica and Panama. Other common names. — coco, cocotero ( Puerto Rico) ; palma de coco, palmera de coco, coco, cocotero, coco de agua (Spanish) ; coconut, coco- nut-palm (United States, English) ; coco, noix de coco, cocotier (French) ; coco, cocos, cocospalm, klapperboom (Dutch West Indies) ; coco da Bahia, coqueiro de Bahia, coco da India (Brazil). PALM FAMILY (PALMAE) 7. Palma de sierra, sierra palm Palma de sierra, as its name indicates, is the pretty palm which forms the palm forests along upland streams on steep slopes and ridges of the higher peaks of Puerto Rico. It is characterized by: (1) the cylindrical slender erect trunk 4—8 inches in diameter; (2) several pinnate leaves with sheaths about iy2 feet long at base and blades about 6 feet long and 3-5 feet across with long narrow segments inserted horizontally on both sides of axis and not overlapping; (3) numerous small white male and female flowers in a once- branched, drooping, white stalked cluster 3 feet or less in length, attached below the leaves; and (4) round shiny black fruits y2 inch in diameter and slightly fleshy. Prop roots covered with tubercles often are present at base. Small to medium-sized palm to 50 feet tall with slender trunk of uniform diameter and thin nar- row evergreen crown of several alternate spread- ing leaves. The smooth gray or light brown trunk has horizontal rings. The green leaf sheaths clasp the trunk at base. The blade has numerous narrow linear leaflets or segments 20-36 inches long and 1*4-2 inches wide, long-pointed, leathery, parallel-veined, green to light green on both sides, spreading horizontally and at equal distances on both sides of axis. At apex the segments are shortened. A few dead leaves may hang down for a time before shedding and forming a smooth ring scar around the trunk. One to 4 new leaves are produced per year. The narrow flower cluster (panicle) about 3 feet long is borne below the leaves. By the time fruits mature the oldest leaves above have shed, and the attachment of fruit cluster is 6 inches or more below base of lowest leaf sheath. There are 2 spindle-shaped long-pointed sheaths (spathes), the outer short and the inner long. The white branches of the axis are mostly less than 1 foot long, spreading out at right angles and afterwards nearly parallel with axis. The small white stalk- less flowers are male and female together (mono- Euterpe globosa Gaertn. ecious). Male flowers have 3 overlapping broad sepals, 3 oblong white petals about %6 inch long meeting at edges in bud, 6 stamens with yellowish anthers, and a rudimentary pistil. Female flowers have 3 overlapping blunt sepals, 3 overlapping rounded white petals about %6 inch long, and an oblong ovary. The fruit has a thin flesh and 1 brown rounded seed 5/iq inch long. Sepals and petals remain at- tached after fruits fall. In flower and fruit nearly all the year. In the higher mountains, where this is the only native palm, the leaves or the leaf sheaths, called yaguas, are used for thatch. The outer stemwood is sometimes hewn into narrow boards for sheath- ing of rural buildings. A portion of the bud of this palm, known as palmillo, can be eaten as a salad. However, removal of the bud kills the tree. The edible part consists of the young inner leaf sheaths which form a white cylinder 2-3 feet long and 3-4 inches in diameter. These white leaf bases, though tender, are almost tasteless as a salad unless seasoned. Except as a novelty for tourists, the palm bud is doubtfully preferable to cabbage. The fruits are an important food for the Puerto Rican parrot. In general these palms of the steep mountain slopes are beneficial in maintaining protective cover for the watershed and in preventing soil erosion. This species is now so little utilized, and its growth rate so slow (less than 12 inches in height per year), that it is being gradually re- placed by other more useful species in the public forests. It may be suitable for ornamental planting. Common to abundant and forming pure forests in the upper mountain forest region of Puerto Rico, descending in ravines into the lower moun- tain forests to about 1,500 feet. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Aba jo, Toro Negro. 40 7. Palma de sierra, sierra palm Fruits (lower right), natural size. Euterpe globosa Gaertn. 41 Municipalities where especially common. — 1, 5, 10, 13, 17, 19, 22, 27, 35, 36, 45, 52, 53, 54, 55, 62, 64, 70, 73. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Lesser Antilles from Saba to Grenada, and Tobago. Other common names. — manacla, palma de manacla (Dominican Republic) ; palma boba, palma justa (Cuba) ; palmiste a chapelet, macou- touca (Haiti) ; palmiste-montagne (Guadeloupe, Dominica) ; palmiste franc, chou-palmiste, palm- iste blanc (Guadeloupe) ; mountain-palm (Lesser Antilles). PALM FAMILY (PALMAE) 8. Palma de lluvia A graceful tall palm of rugged summits of lime- stone hills, distinguished by: (1) the slender, slightly tapering, smooth brown trunk with many prop roots at base; (2) 5-7 erect to spreading pin- nate leaves 4-6 feet long, with green sheath 8-12 inches long around trunk, and blade 2-21/2 feet across the many narrow long-pointed leaflets, which depart from the keeled axis at a small angle, apparently in 2 rows on each side, erect and spreading; (3) small stalkless orange and green male and female flowers scattered along slender branches of a curved axis about 3 feet long: and (4) numerous bright red or orange-red fleshy fruits almost % inch long, nearly round or slightly pear-shaped. A slender palm to 40 feet in height, sometimes taller, with tapering unbranched trunk often slightly leaning, 6-8 inches in diameter at base and only 3 inches in diameter at apex, evergreen. At the base of the trunk up to a height of 2 feet are light brown prop roots about 1V4 inches in diame- ter, bearing numerous short spinelike projections. The smooth brown trunk is ringed, with faint leaf scars 3 inches or less apart. It is relatively soft, composed of a very thin brown outer layer, a thin fibrous whitish layer which is slightly bitter, an orange-brown woody ring about V2 m°b wide, and soft whitish pith with scattered woody strands. The rather few large coarse leaves are alternate, their bases overlapping at intervals of 3 inches or less in a narrow terminal cluster at stem apex. At base of leaf are the green sheath opened on 1 side and a curved stout grooved petiole IV2 ^eet or less in length. The crowded, overlapping, narrow leaflets or segments are about 12-20 inches long and 1-1 Vi inches wide, becoming shorter toward apex, leathery, parallel-veined, green, and slightly Gaussia attenuata (0. F. Cook) Beccari shiny on both sides, attached obliquely to the green axis. After turning brown and shedding the leaf- lets, the axis with leaf base falls, making a smooth scar. Many small flowers are borne stalkless and scat- tered along slender drooping green branches about 6 inches long of the curved and drooping branched cluster (panicle) arising inside sheath of older leaves. Female flowers about %6 mch across have •"> minute broad sepals, 3 fleshy orange spreading petals more than Vie m°b l°n£i 6 minute whitish sterile stamens (staminodes), and pistil composed of green 3-angled 3-celled ovary more than V16 inch long and broad, with 3 stigmas at apex. Male flowers maturing earlier in the same flower clus- ter (monoecious) are slightly larger, with 3 sepals, 3 petals less than 2 mm. long, 6 stamens nearly 2 mm. long, and rudimentary pistil. Fruits change color from green to yellow, orange, and red at maturity. The single rounded brown seed is %6 inch or less in length. Flowering and fruiting probably through the year, at least in both June and December. Perhaps of value as an ornamental. This species is common on the rocky summits and flitis of the moist limestone region and in the hills between San German and Lajas. As these palms are taller than other trees of the jagged hill- tops, clusters of palm leaves often rise above the forest canopy, conspicuous against the sky. From a distance the leaves appear suspended in midair, since the slender trunk is scarcely visible. Public forest. — Cambalache. Range. — Endemic to Puerto Rico. Other common name. — Puerto Rico Hume- palm (English). 42 I - 1 <m ■m m 8. Palma de lluvia Gaussia attenuata ( O. F. Cook) Beooari Female flowers (left) and fruits (right), two-thirds natural size. B PALM FAMILY (PALMAE) 9. Palma real, royalpalm, Puerto Rico royalpalm Puerto Rico royalpalm or palma real is one of Puerto Rico's most characteristic trees, being a conspicuous feature of the countrysides and land- scapes and equally at home along city streets. Known to all, it is characterized by: (1) the stout erect trunk 1-2 feet in diameter, slightly enlarged and bulging at some distance above the base; (2) a light green narrow column of leaf sheaths about 4 feet high at apex of trunk; (3) large pinnate leaves with short petiole above sheath and blade 8-12 feet long composed of many narrow paired segments, and the unfolded youngest leaf project- ing as a narrow spire above the others; (4) small whitish flowers, male and female, borne in a spread- ing to drooping twice-branched cluster 3-5 feet long below the leaves; and (5) light brown, ellip- tic, slightly fleshy fruits about y2 mcn l°ng- This large robust palm becomes 30-60 feet tall. The gray smoothish trunk usually has a broad base, then is slightly narrowed and swollen for some distance above, and in tall specimens nar- rowed again toward the apex. There are faint rings of leaf scars at nodes. The evergreen crown is composed of 15 or fewer long, gracefully curved, spreading alternate leaves. The unfolded young- est leaf usually leans slightly toward the east, the direction of the prevailing wind, and thus serves to indicate the directions. The leaf blade has numerous leaflets or segments 20-36 inches long and only %-l% inches wide, long-pointed, leathery, parallel-veined, green, in- serted on both sides of axis obliquely by 2's and in 2 rows on each side, and usually curving downward rather than flat. Upon dying, the oldest leaf falls off promptly, separating smoothly from the trunk at base of sheath. The flower cluster (panicle) arises below the leaf sheaths from a very large narrow bud formed by a dark brown boat -shaped sheath (spathe) 3-5 feet long. Lateral branches 6-12 inches long from main branches 3 feet or more in length bear many stalkless flowers, male flowers opening and falling first, and toward base the female flower buds, gen- erally 1 between 2 male flowers (monoecious). Male flowers more than 14 inch high and nearly y2 inch across consist of 3 minute rounded whitish sepals less than Vi6 inch long, 3 blunt-pointed whitish petals 14 inch long, 6-9 spreading stamens with purple anthers, and rudimentary pistil. The smaller female flowers Vs mcn l°n» arid broad have 3 broad whitish sepals less than y16 inch long; Roystonea borinquena 0. F. Cook tubular corolla i/8 inch long with 3 pointed lobes and bearing 6 short sterile stamens (staminodes) inside; and pistil of j'ellow-green rounded ovary with 3 short styles and stigmas on 1 side. The numerous fruits contain 1 light brown ellip- tic seed y16 inch long, hard but oily. Flowering and fruiting perhaps through the year. Palma real is a stately ornamental widely planted to beautify streets, parks, and gardens throughout Puerto Rico. Boards hewn from the harder outer part of the trunks are widely used for siding and flooring in rural construction. However, they are very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. The leaves are also used fre- quently in construction, less now than formerly. Fresh leaves are widely displayed locally for re- ligious services on Palm Sunday. The dry blades serve as thatch for roofs of barns and houses, and the broad sheaths, known as yaguas, are spread out flat to make sides of buildings. The twisted young leaf segments are woven into chair seats and backs. An important honey plant, the flowers attract numerous bees. The fruits are a good food for hogs. Palma real is common in forests, pastures, and river banks almost throughout the island from the wet north flank of El Yunque to the coastal man- groves and the dry valleys near Guanica. It is found in all but the upper mountains and the dry limestone regions. These palms probably have become more common following settlement, spreading in clearings, pastures, old fields, and fence rows. Also in Vieques and St. Croix. Public forests. — Aguirre, Cambalache, Carite, Guajataca, Guanica, Luquillo, Maricao, San Juan, Susua, Vega. Range. — Restricted to Puerto Rico, Vieques, and St. Croix. Introduced at Mona. Other common names. — palma de yaguas, palma de costa (Puerto Rico) ; mountain-cabbage (St. Croix) ; Puerto Rico royalpalm, royalpalm (English). The generic name honors General Roy Stone (1835-1905), United States Army Engineer, who rendered outstanding service to Puerto Rico at the time of the Spanish-American War. Cuban royalpalm (Roystonea regia (II. B. K.) O. F. Cook*), a related species from Cuba with tall trunk not swollen, has been planted also in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands and may have es- caped locally. 44 0. Palnia real, royalpalm, Puerto Rico royalpalm Roystonea borinquena O. F. Cook Fruits (lower left) and male and female flowers (lower right), two-thirds natural size. PALM FAMILY (PALMAE) 10. Palma de sombrero, Puerto Rico palmetto Sabal causiarum (O. F. Cook) Beccari Palma de sombrero is the only wild Puerto Rican palm with both fan-shaped leaves and a stout trunk. Its main distinguishing characters are: (1) the stout trunk 1-2 feet in diameter, with the split bases of old petioles hanging down against it; (2) large fan-shaped leaves with very long petioles 3-8 feet long and pleated fan-shaped blue- green blades 3-6 feet in diameter, with a definite midrib curved downward slightly, deeply split from margin to middle into narrow segments al- ternating with threadlike fibers in notches; (3) many small whitish flowers %6 inch long in slen- der, much branched, spreading clusters at leaf bases longer than petioles or sometimes exceeding the blades; and (4) rounded brown fruits %-1/2 inch in diameter and slightly fleshy. Small to medium-sized tree to 30 feet tall with stout unbranched smoothish trunk l1/^-^1^ Ieet thick at base and 1-2 feet in diameter, columnar or slightly tapering upward, and broad evergreen crown of many alternate spreading leaves. The trunk is light gray, smoothish or narrowly cracked, with rings and often with a few holes. The stout blue-green petiole, as long as the blade or longer, has a coarse brown basal sheath encir- cling the axis and later splitting apart. Concave above and decreasing in width above base from 6 to 2 inches, the petiole is prolonged as an axis or midrib (rachis) nearly half the length of the fan- shaped or palmately lobed blade. Segments of the blade, are \y.2-^x/\ inches wide and as much as 4 feet long, stiff and leathery, parallel-veined, dull blue green on both sides, each split into 2 long pointed strips, with a slender fiber or thread aris- ing from each notch. The flower clusters (panicles) are up to 8-10 feet lone There are numerous brown sheaths ( spathes) \x/\-%y<i inches long, each bearing a small lateral cluster (panicle) 8 inches or less in length. The fragrant white stalkless flowers have a white 3-toothed tubular calyx y16 inch long, 3 narrow white petals more than Vs mcn l°ng> 6 spreading white stamens less than 3/l6 inch long, united at i base, and a narrow whitish pistil more than i/g inch long with short 3-celled ovary and stout style. '• The numerous smooth fruits (drupes) have thin flesh and 1 rounded brown seed % inch or less in diameter. Flowering and fruiting perhaps irregu- larly during the year. As the common names suggest, Puerto Rican straw hats are made from the young leaves of this palm, after curing, bleaching, and drying. The leaf fibers are employed also for baskets, mats, and hammocks. The older leaves serve as thatch. Occasionally planted near homes for the leaves and for ornament. Found on coastal plains of northern, western, and southwestern Puerto Rico. Formerly grow- ing in groves on the plateau near Punta Borin- quen in the extreme northwest. Range. — Apparently native only of Puerto Rico. Other common names. — palma de abanico, palma de cogollo, yarey (Puerto Rico) ; Puerto Rico hat -palm (English). Bermuda palmetto or bulltyre (Sabal bermu- dana Bailey;* formerly referred to S. blacJcbumil a num. Glazebrook), native of Bermuda, has been introduced on St. Croix and St. Thomas. It is dis- tinguished by the leaves, which are green rather than blue green, and by slightly larger blackish fruits about % inch in diameter. The leaves are] used for the same purposes. 46 10. Palma de sombrero, Puerto Rioo palmetto Flowers (lower left) and fruits (lower right), natural size. Kabul causiarum (O. F. Cook) Beccari CASUARINA FAMILY (CASUARINACEAE*) 11. Casuarina, Australian beefwood, horsetail casuarina Casuarina equisetifolia L* A tall slender introduced tree with a thin crown, characterized by: (1) wiry, drooping, dark green, needlelike twigs about %2 inch in diameter, jointed and grooved, with rings of minute grayish scale leaves about 1/i_% mch apart; (2) numerous small male and female flowers crowded in inconspicuous light brown clusters on the same tree (monoeci- ous), the male flowers in narrow cylindrical ter- minal clusters %-% inch long and as much as Vs inch across the stamens, and female flowers in short-stalked lateral ball-like clusters less than % inch in diameter or %6 inch across the spreading dark red styles; and (3) fruit a light brown warty conelike ball V2 A mcn m diameter. A rapidly growing medium-sized evergreen tree to 100 feet tall and I-IV2 feet in trunk diam- eter. The bark is light gray brown, smoothish on small trunks, becoming rough, furrowed and shaggy, and splitting into thin strips and flakes exposing a reddish-brown layer. Inner bark is reddish and bitter or astringent. The wiry droop- ing twigs 9-18 inches long are dark green, becom- ing paler, and the older twigs gray brown and scaly. Leaves are less than Y32 inch long, 6-8 in a ring (whorled) at a joint or node. The twigs remain green and function like leaves in food making and are shed gradually like leaves. Minute male flowers, crowded in rings among the grayish scales, consist of a protruding brown- ish stamen less than Vs mch long with 2 minute brown sepal scales at base. Female flowers lack sepals but have a pistil about 3/iq inch long with small ovary and threadlike dark red style. The multiple fruit, gray green when immature, is composed of points less than Vs inch long and broad, each developing from a flower. An indi- vidual fruit has 2 pointed scales that split apart at maturity and release 1 winged light brown seed (akene) about 1/4 inch long (300,000 per pound). Flowering and fruiting through the year. The sapwood is pinkish to light brown, the heartwood dark brown. The fine-textured wood is very hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.81), and very susceptible to attack by dry- wood termites. It is strong, tough, difficult to saw, but cracks and splits, and is not durable in the ground. Rate of air- seasoning is moderate, and amount of degrade is considerable. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing and turning are fair; and shap- ing, boring, mortising, sanding, and resistance to screw splitting are good. The wood is used in the round. Uses include fenceposts and poles, beams but not underground, oxcart tongues, char- coal and fuel. Elsewhere the bark has been employed in tan- ning, in medicine, and in the extraction of a red or blue-black dye. In southern Florida the fruits have been made into novelties and Christmas decorations. Often propagated by cuttings for street, park, ornamental, and windbreak plantings, it can also be trimmed into hedges. It is used for reforesta- tion because of its adaptability to degraded sites and rapid growth. Natural regeneration is rare in Puerto Rico because ants consume nearly all the seeds, but in some tropical areas the plants spread rapidly. On protected sandy seacoasts, where this tree is best adapted in this region, di- ameter growth rates of 1 inch per year are not uncommon. Because some trees have been de- stroyed by disease in Puerto Rico within recent years, planting for shade or ornament may not be desirable. Planted in Puerto Rico, especially along the coasts and less commonly in the lower mountain regions. Also in Mona, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Range. — Native of tropical Asia and Austra- lasia but planted and naturalized in various tropi- cal and subtropical regions. Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bermuda, through West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad, and from Mexico to South America. Other common names. — pino australiano, pino de Australia, pino (Puerto Rico) ; weeping willow (Virgin Islands) ; pino, pino de Australia (Span- ish) ; cipres (Cuba, Mexico) ; sauce (Nicaragua) ; horsetail casuarina, beefwood, horsetail beefwood, horsetail-tree, Australian-pine (United States) ; beefwood (Bahamas) ; casuarina, whistling-pine (Trinidad and Tobago) ; Christmas-tree (British Guiana) ; pin d'Australie (Haiti) ; filao (French West Indies) ; casuarine (Dutch West Indies) ; cazuarina (Brazil). Casuarina is not related to the true pines, which are not native in Puerto Rico. The common name pino, of course, is descriptive of the wiry green twigs, which resemble the needle leaves of pines. A few related species introduced from Australia are being tested experimentally in forest planta- tions. 48 \ w N N \ \ i / / \ V\ >\. \ \ >^<55^sra& . v\,\/ v \ -x^w ^ \\ a \ i ' ft I \! * \! U\ \ \ * \ \ V\\\\ \ \\x \ \ M \ x N ;/\ i \ \ « \\ \ * \ \ / \ \ X*> ,.\ \ 11. Casuarina, Australian beefwood, horsetail casuarina Two-thirds natural size. Casuarina equisetifolia L. 49 PEPPER FAMILY (PIPERACEAE) 12. Higuillo This abundant small tree or shrub is easily rec- ognized by: (1) the yellow-green, slightly zigzag, finely hairy twigs with enlarged, ringed joints (nodes) ; (2) the narrowly elliptic, long-pointed, yellow-green leaves, unequal at base, slightly rough above, with long, slightly curved lateral veins, and aromatic or spicy when crushed; (3) the tiny flowers and fruits crowded in cordlike, curved, lateral axes 3-4 inches long and about Vs inch in diameter; and (i) the peppery taste and odor of leaves, fruits, and seeds. An evergreen tree to 20 feet in height and 4 inches in trunk diameter, often brandling at or near base and with a spreading crown. The bark is smooth and gray. Inner bark is whitish and peppery or slightly bitter. The leaves are alternate, sometimes in 2 rows, with short petioles Vs"_1/t mch long. Leaf blades are 5-7 inches long and l%-3 inches broad, the base rounded and about % nicn longer on 1 side, the edges not toothed, thin, the lower surface pale and soft hairy. Under a lens, minute lighter dots are visible in the leaves when held against the light. The cordlike, curved flower clusters (spikes) are borne singly opposite a leaf, yellowish but turning to gray green in fruit. The very numer- ous flowers, each less than y32 inch long, consist of 4 stamens, pistil with 1 -celled ovary and 3 stigmas, and 1 scale (bract). The fruits (drupes) are pale green, somewhat more than y32 inch long, slightly Piper aduncum L. juicy, and contain 1 brown or black seed y32 mcn long. Flowering and fruiting throughout the year- The sapwood is whitish and hard and is little used, although larger trunks sometimes have been placed in the framework of country homes. Else- where the leaves, flowers, and roots have been em- ployed in home medicines and the peppery fruits in seasoning food. In forest openings, roadsides, pastures and aban- doned fields, often forming pure thickets in the moist coast, moist limestone, and lower and upper mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques. Public fokests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Toro Negro. Range. — Greater Antilles, St. Vincent, Gre- nada, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago. Also from central Mexico to Peru and Brazil. Other common names. — higuillo hoja raenuda (Puerto Rico) ; cordoncillo (Spanish) ; anisillo, guayuyo, guayuyo bianco (Dominican Republic) ; platinillo de Cuba, canilla de muerte (Cuba) ; cor- doncillo bianco, biritac (Guatemala) ; cordoncillo bianco (Nicaragua) ; Spanish elder, Spanish ella, elder, ells, cows-foot (British Honduras) ; sureau (Haiti) ; aperta ruao, matico falso (Brazil). Besides this species of small tree size, 8 shrubby species of this large tropical genus are recorded from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. 50 Piper aduncum L Natural size. SI CHLORANTHUS FAMILY (CHLORANTHACEAE) 13. Azafran This distinctive small tree or shrub of the east- ern mountains of Puerto Rico is readily identified by the following characters: (1) the leaves, twigs, and other parts are pleasantly fragrant when crushed; (2) the opposite, elliptic, slightly fleshy, dark green leaves have finely saw-toothed edges, and the petioles of a pair are united at base into an enlarged sheath %— V£ inch long around twig; (3) stalkless small green flowers less than y8 mcn long, male and female on different trees (dioe- cious), the male flowers crowded in narrow clus- ters and the female flowers in groups of 2 or 3 sur- rounded by 3 scales along an axis; and (4) whitish watery fruits about % inch in diameter, with 3 fleshy scales on outside. An evergreen tree to 20 feet high and 4 inches in trunk diameter or shrubby. The bark is brown, smoothish and thin, often covered with mosses and liverworts. Inner bark is light brown or pinkish, and with spicy or bitter taste. The dark green fleshy twigs have enlarged ringed nodes and large pith and are brittle. Petioles are Vi-% inch long, the leaf blades l%-5 inches long and %~2 inches broad, short- pointed at both ends, with the edges slightly turned under. Hedyosmum arborescens Sw. Flower clusters are terminal and lateral. Male flowers are in a stalked cylindrical cluster (spike) %-l% inches long and %6 inch or more in diame- ter, each flower consisting merely of 1 stamen less than i/8 inch long and without calyx. The axis (spike) of female flowers is 1-2 inches long, the flowers composed of 3-angled inferior ovary less than ys inch long covered by green tubular base ( hypanthium) and bearing minute 3-toothed calyx at apex. The fruits are composed mainly of the enlarged fleshy scales, enclosing 2 or 3 individual 3-angled fruits (drupelike) about Vs inch long, each from a separate flower and containing 1 brown seed. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The light brown sapwood is hard and is not used. In openings in the forests in the upper Luquillo and eastern upper Cordillera regions of Puerto Rico, ascending to near the summits of the peaks. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo. Range. — Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to St. Vincent. Other common names. — bois fragile, bois de l'eau, bois senti (Guadeloupe). 52 13. Azafran Hcfli/osnnim arhorescens Sw. Two-thirds natural size. 53 WILLOW FAMILY (SALICACEAE*) 14. Sauce, Humboldt willow An exotic ornamental tree easily recognized by : (1) the very narrow columnar crown with straight axis; (2) nearly erect branches; (3) slender yel- low-green twigs; and (4) the very narrow (lin- ear), long-pointed, finely saw-toothed leaves. Ap- parently this species does not flower in Puerto Rico. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree attain- ing 20-60 feet in height and 8 inches in trunk diameter. The gray bark is rough and furrowed. Inner bark is pinkish and slightly bitter. The twigs are sometimes pinkish tinged. The alternate leaves have short slender green- ish or pinkish petioles about % hich long. At base there is a pair of broad, short-pointed, toothed, green scales (stipules) 1/8_% hich hong, clasping the twig. Leaf blades are 2-5 inches long and 3/i6_% hich broad, short-pointed at base, with lateral veins inconspicuous, papery thin, and dull green on both sides. The foliage has a slight but distinctive odor. Where present, the flowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious), crowded with woolly scales in narrow clusters (catkins) 1 1/1-214 inches long, terminal on short twigs. Male flowers con- sist of 4-7 stamens above a woolly scale, and fe- male flowers with woolly scale at base have a pistil composed of 1-celled ovary and 2 stigmas. Seed capsules nearly %6 inch long contain many small seeds with tufts of cottony hairs. Salix humboldtiana Willd.* The sapwood is whitish, and the heart wood dull gray and reddish. The wood is soft, lightweight (specific gravity 0.4) , and easy to work. It is not durable and is very susceptible to attack by dry- wood termites. The wood is used only for posts and fuel in Puerto Rico. Elsewhere it has been employed for boxes and in cabinetmaking, and the bark has served in medicine. Baskets and wicker furniture are made from the slender flexi- ble branches. The columnar form is grown as an ornamental, particularly in cemeteries and also in parks and gardens and in living fences. Also in St. Croix. The species is propagated from cuttings. Range. — Native from central Mexico south to Chile and Argentina. Planted also in southern Florida, Greater Antilles, and in Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Vincent, and perhaps other Lesser Antilles. Other common names. — mimbre (Puerto Rico) ; sauce (Spanish) ; sauce Colorado, mimbre (Colombia) ; pajarobobo (Peru) ; sauce amargo, sauce chileno (Chile) ; sauce criollo, sauce Colorado (Argentina) ; sauce criollo, sauce bianco (Uru- guay) ; Humboldt willow, willow (United States, Engish) ; saule (French) ; saule, peuplier (Guade- loupe) ; salgueiro, salso, chorao (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Salix chilensis auth., not S. chilensis Molina, a name of uncertain applica- tion. 54 14. Sauce, Humboldt willow 687-921 O— 64 5 Matural size. SaliX InnnhiihltiiiiKi Willil. SS ELM FAMILY (ULMACEAE) Key to the 2 species illustrated ( Nos. 15 and 16) A. Leaves less than 2 inches long, short-pointed, rough hairy on both surfaces — 15. Trema lamarckiana. A A. Leaves 3%-6 inches long, long-pointed, rough hairy above, soft hairy on veins beneath — 16. Trema micrantha. 15. Palo de cabrilla, West Indies trema This shrub or small tree of openings in dry areas is characterized by: (1) a thin, very spreading crown of horizontal or slightly drooping branches; (2) small, lance-shaped leaves usually less than 2 inches long, rough and hairy on both sides, thick and with the finely saw-toothed edges turned under, with 3 main veins at base, and with network of veins sunken on upper surface and raised on lower surface ; (3) the leaves in a flat arrangement in 2 rows: and (4) many small greenish flowers and pink fruits % m°b m diameter clustered at bases of leaves. An evergreen shrub or tree to 20 feet in height and 10 inches in trunk diameter. The smoothish light brown bark has many tiny warty dots (lenti- cels) and thin fissures. Inner bark is light brown or pinkish, fibrous, and slightly bitter. The slen- der twigs, green when young and becoming brown, are covered with minute, stiff, whitish hairs. The alternate leaves have short hairy petioles y%~y± inch long. Leaf blades are mostly %-lV2 inches in length and ^4-^2 mcn m width, some- times to 3V2 inches long and 1V4 inches broad, usu- ally short-pointed at apex, rounded or slightly oblique at base, green above and light green beneath. Trema lamarckiana (Roem. & Schult.) Blume The hairy flower clusters (cymes) about % inch across bear several short -stalked hairy flowers less than Vs inch across, mostly male and female to- gether (monoecious). Male flowers have 5 sepals, .") stamens, and rudimentary pistil; female flowers have 5 sepals and pistil composed of ovary with 2 stigmas. The fleshy fruits (drupes) contain 1 brown seed 1/iq inch long. Flowering and fruiting probably through most of the year. The light brown soft wood is seldom used in Puerto Rico. In open areas along the edges of forests and along roadsides in the southwestern part of the lower Cordillera region of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Maricao, Susua. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bermuda. Bahamas, Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles from Saba to St. Vincent. Other common names. — cabrilla (Puerto Rico) ; memizo de majagua, memizo cimarron, majagua, memiso (Dominican Republic); capuli cimarron, guasimilla (Cuba) ; West Indies trema (United States); Lamarck trema, pain-in-back (Bahamas) ; mahaut piment (Haiti) ; ormepetites feuilles (French West Indies). 56 L5. Palo de cabrilla. West Indies trema Trema lamarckiana (Roem. & Schult.) Blume Natural size. ELM FAMILY (ULMACEAE) 16. Guacimilla, false jacocalalu, Florida trema This small tree of open forests is recognized by : (1) open spreading crown with horizontal and slightly drooping branches; (2) the lance-shaped leaves 3^-6 inches long, long-pointed at apex, the base with 3 main veins and slightly heart-shaped and oblique, with finely saw-toothed edges, rough hairy on upper surface and soft hairy on veins be- neath; (3) the. leaves arranged flattened in 2 rows on green hairy twigs; and (4) numerous small greenish flowers and round orange fruits Vs mcn in diameter borne in lateral clusters at leaf bases. An evergreen tree to 40 feet high and 1 foot in trunk diameter. The light brown bark is smooth- ish with rows of warty dots (lenticels) or becom- ing slightly fissured. Inner bark is brownish or pinkish, almost tasteless or slightly bitter. The leaves are alternate on short petioles 14.-% inch long with blades 1-2V4 inches broad, slightly thickened, the upper surface green and the lower surface light green. Flower clusters (cymes) are lateral and branched, V2~% mcn across, hairy, with numerous short-stalked small greenish flowers less than i/8 inch long, mostly male and female together (mono- ecious). Male flowers about % inch across have 5 pointed whitish-green sepals, 5 whitish stamens, and a sterile pistil. Female flowers are composed of 5 pointed whitish-green sepals and a pistil with green ovary and 2 whitish stigmas. The round fleshy fruits (drupes) contain 1 black seed more than y1& inch long. Probably in flower and fruit nearly through the year. Trema micrantha (L.) Blume The wood is light brown, soft, lightweight (spe- cific gravity 0.4), and weak. Used only for posts and fuel in Puerto Pico. The strong fiber in the bark has been employed for cordage. In openings, clearings, woodlands and along roadsides in the lower Luquillo and moist coastal regions of eastern Puerto Rico. Also in St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo, Toro Negro. Range. — Central and southern Florida and Florida Keys and throughout West Indies from Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago. Also from central Mexico to Argentina and Brazil. Other common names. — palo de cabra. cabra (Puerto Rico) ; memizo cimarron, memiso de pa- loma, memiso (Dominican Republic) ; guacimilla, guacimilla cimarrona, guacimilla boba, capulf cim- arron (Cuba) ; yaco de cuero, equipal (Mexico) : capulin (Central America) ; capulin negro (Hon- duras) ; capulin macho, capulin montes, capulin- cillo, churrusco (El Salvador) ; capulin bianco, juco, vara blanca (Costa Rica) ; capulin macho (Panama) : berraco, raspador, majagua colorada, venaco (Colombia) ; masaquilla (Venezuela) ; tortolero, muchichilan (Ecuador) ; aisegerina, ata- di jo, yana-caspi (Peru) ; palo-polvora, afta colo- rada (Argentina) ; Florida trema (United States) ; Jamaican nettle-tree (Jamaica) ; white capulin, wild bay-cedar (British Honduras) : bois de soie (Haiti) ; ceriiiva (Brazil). 58 16. Guaeimilla, false jacocalalu, Florida trema Trema micrantha ( L. ) Blume Natural size. SO MULBERRY FAMILY (MORACEAE) Key to the 8 species illustrated (Nos. 18-24) A. Leaves deeply lobed, very large. B. Leaves umbrellalike, rounded with 7-11 rounded lobes; petiole very long — 20. Cccropia pcltata. BB. Leaves elliptic, with 7-11 long-pointed lobes ; petiole short — 17. Artocarpus altilis.* AA. Leaves not lobed. C. Leaves hairy, oblong, edges with tufts of hairs appearing like minute teeth — 19. Castillo elastica.* CC. Leaves hairless or nearly so, edges not toothed. D. Leaves elliptic or obovate, rounded at apex ; fruit very large, elliptic or rounded — 18. Artocarpus hetcrophyllus* DD. Leaves various, short- or long-pointed at apex ; fruit small, figlike. E. Leaves with 3 main veins from base, elliptic to diamond-shaped — 23. Ficus retusa* EE. Leaves with 1 main vein or midrib. F. Leaves with 6-10 lateral veins on each side of midrib — 22. Ficus laevigata. FF. Leaves with many straight, parallel, lateral veins. G. Leaves abruptly short-pointed at ai>ex. rounded at base, 4-12 inches long — 21. Ficus elastica* GG. Leaves short-pointed at both ends, 1VL-3 inches long — 24. Ficus sintenisii. 17. Panapen, pana de pepitas, breadfruit Breadfruit is a handsome tree planted for its edible fruits and attractive foliage. It is easily recognized by: (1) the very large, deeply 7-11- lobed, shiny dark green leaves about iy2 (1-3) feet long: (2) the milky juice that exudes from the bark when cut; and (3) the yellowish-green rounded or elliptic fruits 4—8 inches long. Two varieties are distinguished: panapen being the common seedless variety, and pana de pepitas the variety with seeds. A medium-sized spreading evergreen tree to 60 feet high and 2 feet or more in trunk diameter, with relatively few stout branches. The brown bark is smooth, with warty dots (lenticels). Inner bark is whitish and almost tasteless, with white, slightly bitter latex. The very stout twigs 1^-1 inch in diameter are green and minutely hairy, with rings at nodes, and end in a large, pointed, finely hairy bud 5 inches or less in length, formed by a big scale (stipule) around the developing leaf. Leaves are alternate on very stout green petioles 1-2 inches long. The leaf blades are elliptic in outline, 9-20 inches across, the pinnate lobes long- pointed, short-pointed at base, slightly thickened, the upper surface nearly hairless except along veins, and the lower surface lighter green and finely hairy at least on veins. The 2 varieties differ slightly in leaf shape and hairiness. Leaves of the seeded variation are less deeply lobed, have usually i) or 11 lobes instead of the 7 common in the seed- less variety, and are more hairy, bristly hairy on veins above and finely and roughly hairy on lower surface. Flowers are very numerous and minute, the male and female on the same tree (monoecious) in separate thick, fleshy clusters single at leaf bases on stalks about 2 inches long. The male cluster is a cylindrical or club-shaped soft mass about 5-12 inches long and 1 inch in diameter, yellowish and turning brown. Male flowers y16 inch long, con- sisting of 2-lobed calyx and 1 stamen, are crowded on the outside. The female flower cluster is ellip- tic or rounded, about 2!/> inches long and l1/^ inches in diameter or larger, light green. In the Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg* variety with seeds the female flowers are % inch long and Vi6 inch across, composed of a tubular, conelike and pointed, hairy calyx projecting Vi inch and pistil with a sunken 1-celled 1-ovuled ovary and 2-lobed style. The seedless variety has sterile female flowers projecting only about %2 inch. The multiple fruits are covered with individual fruits and contain a whitish starchy pulp formed from the enlarged stalk (receptacle). In the seeded variety the fruit surface is composed of greenish conical spinelike projections, each from a single flower, and there are several large brown edible seeds. The seedless variety has a smoothish surface honeycombed with individual fruits about %6 inch across. Flowers and fruits are borne throughout the year. The sapwood is light yellow to yellowish brown, and the heartwood golden colored, sometimes flecked with orange. The wood is very soft, light- weight (specific gravity 0.27), yet quite firm and strong for its weight. It is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. There are numer- ous large pores but no growth rings. Rate of air- seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing is fair; shaping, turning, boring, and mortising are very poor; sanding is poor; and resistance to screw splitting is excellent. The wood is little used in Puerto Rico except occasionally for interior partitions. Nevertheless, it is suitable for boxes, crates, light construction, and toys. Surf boards were made from the light wood in Hawaii. The trees are also attractive for ornament and shade. In periods of prolonged drought the leaves have been cut to provide forage for cattle. The sticky sap has been used in some places to catch birds. Fruits are gathered before maturity and roasted or boiled as a starchy vegetable, those of the seed- less variety being preferred. Or the young fruits can be sliced and fried. Also, the seeds are boiled or roasted. A dessert and preserves are sometimes 60 17. Panapen, pana de pepitas, breadfruit One-third natural size. Artocarpuft alt His (Parkinson) Fosberg 61 made from the male flower clusters. Elsewhere the fruits have served for fattening hogs. This tree was introduced into the West Indies in 17!)3 from Tahiti of the South Sea Islands to provide cheap food for slaves. It was claimed that three or four mature trees could provide starchy food to support a man throughout the year. Captain William Bligh in the ship Provi- dence chartered by the British Government brought plants to St. Vincent and Jamaica, This special expedition was undertaken to transport potted plants of the seedless variety the great dis- tance. An earlier attempt with a cargo of plants on board the ship Bounty failed owing to the famous mutiny against Captain Bligh in 1789. About the same time the French brought a few breadfruits to other islands of the West Indies. Propagation is by root cuttings or layering and in the seeded variety by seeds. Growth is rapid. Widely cultivated around homes almost through- out Puerto Rico and occasionally escaping. Least common in the upper mountain and dry limestone regions. Also in Mona, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St, John, and Tortola. Range. — Native in islands of the South Pacific Ocean. Grown throughout the tropics, the seeded variety sometimes escaping from cultivation. Planted throughout the West Indies and in con- tinental tropical America. Rare in southern Florida and fruiting only at Key West. Other common names. — arbol de pan, palo de pan, pan, pana (Puerto Rico, Spanish) ; lavapen, mapen, bombilla, pichones (Puerto Rico) ; pana forastera (seedless variety, Puerto Rico) ; castaha (seeded variety, Puerto Rico) ; buen pan, albopan, pan de fruta (Dominican Republic) ; castaho del Malabar (seeded variety, Cuba) ; mazapan, fruta de pan, pan de fruta, castana (Guatemala) ; maza- pan (Honduras) ; breadfruit (United States, Eng- lish) ; breadnut (seeded variety, English) ; cha- taigne (seeded variety, Trinidad) ; mazapan (British Honduras) : arbre a pain, fruit a pain (French); arbre veritable (Haiti); chataignier, chataignier du pays (seeded variety, French West Indies) ; palu di frut'i pan, broodboom (Dutch West Indies) ; broodboom (Surinam) ; fructa pao (Brazil). Bota Nic a l synonyms. — A rtocarpus comm i/n is J. R. & G. Forst., A. incisus (Thumb.) L. f. MULBERRY FAMILY (MORACEAE) 18. Jaca, jackfruit This cultivated relative of breadfruit is charac- terized by: (1) giant, elliptic, rounded or irregu- lar-shaped yellow-green fruits 1-2 feet long and i/>-l foot in diameter, covered with sharp conical points; (2) milky juice in the bark; and (3) leaves commonly elliptic or obovate, 4-6 inches long and 2-3 inches broad, dark green and slightly shiny, thick and leathery. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree to 40 feet in height and 1 foot in trunk diameter. The gray bark is smoothish, becoming rough, fur- rowed, and thick (y2 inch). Inner bark is light brown, gritty and almost tasteless, yielding taste- less latex. The twigs are gray, with raised rounded leaf scars, ending in a dark green, nar- row, pointed, minutely hairy scale (stipule) V2 inch or more in length forming the bud. The leaves are alternate, with stout petioles 1/^_% inch long. Leaf blades vary in shape, some- times oblong or narrow and on young plants and shoots occasionally 2- or 3-lobed. Male and female flowers are in different flower clusters, enlarged and fleshy, on the same tree (monoecious). The male cluster on a stalk 2 inches long is stoutly club-shaped, 2-4 inches long, yellowish green, and with odor like muskmelon, bearing very many crowded male flowers less than l/iG inch long, each consisting of a 2-lobed calyx and 1 stamen. Female flowers, very numerous in the elliptic or rounded female flower clusters, are more than yie inch long, composed of tubular hairy calyx and pistil with 1-celled 1-ovuled ovary, slender style, and broader yellow stigma. Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.* The multiple fruits, weighing 20-40 pounds, have a hard outer covering of the enlarged female flowers, each with a sharp conical point % inch long and about 14 inch across at base. Within is a whitish fibrous pulp containing many seeds (80 to a pound), which are irregularly bean-shaped, whitish or light brown, iy±-iy2 inches long. In fruit nearly through the year. The wood is yellowish, darkening to brown upon exposure, fairly hard and resistant, taking a good polish. Little used in Puerto Rico; else- where used in cabinetwork and carpentry. Occasionally planted in gardens, chiefly in the cities and towns of Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands for ornament, shade, or the large edible fruits, though much less common than breadfruit. The fruits, which are eaten cooked as a starchy vege- table, have a peculiar flavor and are less palatable than breadfruits. Range. — Native of tropical Asia from India to Malaya and East Indies. Widely planted in tropi- cal regions, including southern Florida, West Indies, and continental tropical America. Other common names. — pana cimarrona (Puerto Rico) ; jaca (Spanish) ; pan de fruta, buen pan, albopan (Dominican Republic) ; rima (Cuba) ; castaho (Nicaragua) ; jaqueira, arbol de pan (Colombia); jackfruit, jack (United States, English); cartanar (British Guiana); jaquier (French) ; jaca (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Artocarpus integrifo- llus autli., not L. f., ,1. integer auth., not (Thumb.) Merr. 62 18. Jaca, jackfruit Natural size. Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. 63 MULBERRY FAMILY (MORACEAE) 19. Caucho, Central American rubber, castilla rubber Castillo elastica Cervantes* Caucho, including this and 2 related species planted sparingly in Puerto Rico, is easily recog- nized by: (1) the long, slightly drooping, stout, hairy twigs with 2 rows of large hairy oblong leaves 10-18 inches long and 4-8 inches broad, also drooping; and (2) abundant milky juice in the bark and twigs. The other species are separated mostly by flower and fruit characters. A large spreading evergreen tree becoming 70 feet or more in height and 1-3 feet in trunk diam- eter, with buttresses forming at base of large trunks. The light brown bark is smoothish, with fine fissures, and thick, often having scars where cut with machetes by curious persons to see the latex drip. Inner bark is whitish and bitter with latex also bitter. The unbranched twigs are green when young but become brown, and have a long, narrow, green, hairy terminal bud 2-21/2 inches long, formed by a many-ridged scale (stipule) that sheds, leaving a diagonal ring scar at each node. The alternate leaves are spreading from short stout hairy petioles i/> inch long. Leaf blades are oblong but broadest beyond the middle, short- pointed at apex and heart-shaped at base, the edges with tufts of hairs simulating minute teeth, thin, gi'een and rough on upper surface, and light green and soft hairy beneath. Flowers are male and female on the same tree (monoecious) but in separate flattened headlike clusters bordered by rows of overlapping scales and borne along the twigs mostly back of the leaves. Male clusters are commonly 4 together, 3/4-1 inch across on stalks about 1 inch long, com- posed of male flowers with numerous crowded stamens less than Vs mcn long and no calyx. Fe- male clusters are single, stalkless or nearly so, forming a greenish-yellow disk % inch across, and bordered by many broad, short-pointed, green, finely hairy, overlapping scales. The crowded female flowers are about Vi inch long, with fleshy, minutely hairy, greenish-yellow, tubular, angled calyx surrounding and adhering to the white ovary, which lias a yellow-green style and 2- or 3-forked protruding stigma. The multiple fruit is a disk lVo-2 inches in di- ameter and %-l inch thick, bordered by many green overlapping scales from the flower cluster and composed of many crowded individual fruits grown together. Each individual fruit is 1/2-% inch long and V4-% mcn across, blunt-pointed and half within the disk, composed of the fleshy, finely hairy calyx, changing color from yellow to green, orange, and red, very juicy, almost tasteless but slightly sour, soon fermenting and molding, and containing 1 white oblong seed %-1/2 mcn long- Seeds 800 to a pound. Flowering chiefly in spring, and maturing fruits in summer. The wood is yellow brown, moderately soft, lightweight, and not durable. Used in Puerto Rico chiefly for fuel. With species distributed on the continent from Mexico to Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil, < 'astUla was formerly an important source of rub- ber, both from wild trees and plantations. Some rubber is still obtained from wild trees by cutting or tapping the bark and collecting the latex, which coagulates upon exposure. Cultivation in Trini- dad and Tobago was not commercially successful. Most rubber now comes from plantations of the unrelated Para rubber tree (Hevea) native in Brazil. The Indians made mats for blankets and clothing by beating out the bark. Planted occasionally in Puerto Rico, sometimes as a roadside tree for shade and ornament. Found along the Arecibo-Utuado, Ciales-Villalba, and Maricao-Mayagiiez highways. Also grown at St. Thomas. It is a tree of openings in moist forests, probably light-requiring, and grows rapidly. Range. — Native of Mexico and Centi*al America south to Colombia and Ecuador. In the West Indies introduced into Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, and Trinidad and Tobago. Rarely planted in southern Florida. Other common names. — palo de goma, goma, cauchera (Puerto Rico) ; caucho (Spanish) ; tira- jala (Dominican Republic) ; arbol del hule (Mexico) ; hule, ule (Guatemala, Honduras) ; ule- ule, hule, mastate bianco (Panama) ; caucho negro (Colombia) ; castilla rubber, castilloa rubber, Cen- tral American rubber (English) ; rubber, ule (British Honduras). Botanical synonyms. — Costilla lactif.ua O. F. Cook, C . panamensis O. F. Cook. The generic name, sometimes spelled Castilloa. honors Juan del Castillo (1744-93), Spanish pharmacist and economic explorer, who came to Mexico in 1787. 64 9. Caucho, Central American rubber, castilla rubber Two-thirds natural size. Castilla elaslica Cervantes 65 MULBERRY FAMILY (MORACEAE) 20. Yagrumbo hembra, trumpet-tree One of the most abundant trees in Puerto Rico, this species is easily recognized by : (1) a very thin spreading crown of a few stout brandies arising high on the trunk and curving upward; (2) the few very large thick umbrellalike (peltate) leaves with blades l-2y2 feet across, composed of 7-11 large lol)es spreading at the end of a stout petiole almost as long; (3) the whitish or silvery under- surface of leaves readily seen when upturned by a breeze; and (4) the newer branches hollow ex- cept for partitions at the nodes. A medium-sized evergreen tree to 70 feet high and 2 feet in trunk diameter, deciduous in areas with a pronounced dry season. Sometimes de- veloping prop roots around the base. The gray bark is smooth and thin, with narrow rings and large leaf scars at the nodes or joints 2—1 inches apart. Inner bark is pinkish and slightly bitter, with watery latex. The smallest branches are IV2 inches in diameter, green and slightly hairy at apex, becoming gray, with rings at nodes. There is a giant bud covered by a large, pointed, reddish, hairy scale (stipule) 5-10 inches long. Leaves are alternate but clustered at ends of branches, each on a stout round green petiole 12-20 inches long, enlarged at base. The leaf blades, rounded in outline, have 7-11 lobes and veins ra- diating from the end of the petiole (palmate), the lobes and sinuses rounded. Upper surface is green, slightly rough, and hairless, and lower sur- face with a dense coat of whitish hairs. Male and female flowers are on different trees (dioecious) in paired fingerlike clusters at leaf bases. Male flower clusters have a stalk 2-3 inches long bearing about lf> narrowly cylindrical pale yellow branches (spikes) 2-3y2 inches long and %6 inch in diameter, each on a stalk Vi-1/^ inch long. The very numerous, tiny, crowded male flowers are y16 inch long and narrow and have a tubular calyx and 2 stamens. Female flower clusters on stalks 2-3 inches long consist of 2-5 stalkless, thicker, cylindrical, gray branches (spikes). The minute female flowers more than y1(i inch long, sunken in the axis, are composed of a tubular calyx enclosing ovary and style and an exposed finely branched stigma. At maturity the branches (multiple fruits) are ■21/2— 4 inches long and %-Vi> inch in diameter, gray and slightly fleshy, dotted with many 1 -seeded minute fruits (about'2,200,000 to the pound). The numer- ous brown seeds are more than 1/16 inch long. In flower and fruit probably through the year. The wood is whitish, lightweight (specific grav- ity 0.20), soft, weak, and brittle, but tough for its weight. It is not durable and is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Unlike the hollow branches, the main trunk is solid. The rate of air- seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is con- Cecropia peltata L. siderable. Machining characteristics are as fol- lows: planing and sanding are good; shaping and turning are fair; boring is very poor; mortising is poor; and resistance to screw splitting is excellent. In Puerto Rico the wood is used for manufac- ture of excelsior. Combined with cement, it is made into a type of insulation board for light in- terior construction and partitions. The wood should be a suitable substitute for balsa in manu- facture of toys, models, and other products made from moderately heavy grades of balsa. Else- where the wood has been used for matchsticks, boxes and crates, interior boarding, and paper pulp. The hollow stems have been used to make floats for fishnets and life preservers and, when split in two, have served as water troughs and gutters. Substitutes for cork stoppers have been whittled from the soft wood. In some countries the leaves, bark, and latex have been employed in local medi- cine. The fibrous bark of related species was used by Indians for cordage and mats. It is reported that the wood ignites easily from friction and serves as tinder. Hollow branches of this and related species else- where are inhabited by small stinging ants which bore holes to reach the interior. Early naturalists observing this constant association imagined that the ants, as payment for the residence furnished, were aggressive in driving away insects or other natural enemies threatening the tree. However, in Puerto Rico ants are not associated with this species, and the trees thrive. Abundant in open areas and in forests both vir- gin and cutover, throughout Puerto Rico with the exception of parts of the dry coastal and dry lime- stone regions. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. The trees propagate naturally and at first grow very rapidly (2-3 inches in diameter per year) but require nearly full sunlight. The seeds appar- ently germinate slowly. In Trinidad it was ob- served that bats eat quantities of the succulent fruits and are the chief agents of seed dispersal. Birds also distribute the seeds. This weed tree commonly covers quickly all openings residting from cutting of trees in the forest. Its open shade provides a good environment for the development of a new forest. Public forests. — Cambalache, Caz*ite, Guaja- taca, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Toro Negro, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — 1, r>. 10, 14, 17, 19, 22, 23, 25, 27, 31, 34, 35, 36, 40, 43, 15. 4!), 50, 51. 52, 53, 58, 59, 60, 62, 64, 70, 73, 74. Range. — Throughout West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago. Also from Yucatan, Mexico, to Costa Rica and recorded in 66 ). Yagrumbo hembra. trumpet-tree Cecropia peltate I, Leafy twig with male flower clusters (above), about one-third natural size; fruit clusters (lower right), two-thirds natural size. 67 Colombia, Venezuela, and Guianas. Planted as an ornamental in southern Florida. Other common names. — yagrumo, llagrumo, grayumo hembra (Puerto Rico) ; trumpet-wood (Virgin Islands) ; yagrumo, yagrumo hembra (Dominican Republic) ; yagruma, yagruma hem- bra (Cuba) ; guarumo (Guatemala, Costa Rica, Colombia) ; igarata (Guatemala) ; trumpet-tree, trumpet-wood, pumpwood, snakewood (United States, English) ; shield-shaped trumpet-tree (United States) ; pop-a-gun (Barbados) ; bois canon (Trinidad) ; wanasoro, congo-pump (Brit- ish Guiana) ; bois trompette (Haiti, Guadeloupe) ; bois canon (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ;wildpapaw (Dutch West Indies) ; bospapaja (Surinam). Botanical synonym. — Cecropia asperrima Pittier. English and French common names refer to the use of the hollow brandies for trumpets or other musical instruments. Also, children sometimes make flutes from the hollow petioles. An unrelated tree of generally similar appear- ance is yagrumo macho (Didymopanax moro- totoni (Aubl.) Decne. &PL). MULBERRY FAMILY (MORACEAE) 21. Palo de goma, India-rubber fig Occasionally planted in Puerto Rico for orna- ment and shade, this handsome spreading tree is characterized by : ( 1 ) an extensive superficial root system and numerous aerial roots about the trunk ; (2) abundant milky juice or white latex; (3) large, leathery, oblong or elliptic, shiny green leaves 4-12 inches long and 2-3 inches broad, thick and stiff, abruptly short-pointed at apex, rounded at base, and with sides bent upward at midrib; (4) numerous straight, parallel, lateral veins very close together on each side of the midrib and near- ly at right angles to it; and (5) oblong greenish- yellow figlike fruits about y2 inch long, paired and stalkless at base of leaves. A medium-sized to large evergreen tree to 60 feet in height and 3 feet in trunk diameter. In India, its native home, it becomes 100 feet tall with a giant fluted trunk, often buttressed at base and with long surface roots. The bark is light gray, smoothish with small horizontal ridges, and thick. Inner bark is reddish and bitter. The crown of long branches provides dense shade. The stout twigs have faint rings at the nodes. A large, showy, long-pointed, reddish sheath or scale (stipule) 1-2 inches or more in length forms the outside of the bud and covers each new leaf. The alternate leaves have stout petioles %-lV^ inches long. Leaf blades are lighter colored be- neath and much larger on young shoots than on others, not toothed on edges. There is a variation with yellow variegated leaves. The elliptic multiple fruits (syconia) are covered with a sheath when young that sheds, leav- ing a basal cup. There is a ring and slight pointed opening at apex. Many tiny male and female flowers (monoecious) and seeds are borne inside the slightly fleshy fruits, which are eaten by birds Ficus elastica Nois.* and sometimes by children. Fruiting probably through the year. The sapwood is whitish and moderately hard. The wood is little used in Puerto Rico. In native forests and extensive plantations of India this species was the original commercial source of rub- ber. However, India rubber has been replaced by Para rubber (Iievea) from Brazil, which pro- duces higher yields and at an earlier age in planta- tions. Propagated by cuttings or layers and adapted to moist regions, where it grows rapidly. However, the many horizontal roots on top of the ground may be objectionable in street planting. It is re- ported that the large heavy limbs are easily broken by wind. Where native, the plants usually start as air plants (epiphytes) from seeds germinating on other trees, sending down aerial roots to the ground and afterwards strangling and killing the supporting trees. Planted for ornament and shade along streets and in parks and gardens in Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands. Range. — Native of tropical Asia from India to Malaya. Widely cultivated in tropical regions, sometimes escaping, and as a potted ornamental in temperate regions. Planted in southern Flor- ida, Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Guadeloupe, and Dutch West Indies. Also from Mexico to South America. Other common names. — caucho, higuera (Do- minican Republic) ; goma elastica, caucho (Cuba) ; amate, hule (El Salvador) ; caucho de la India (Colombia) ; India-rubber fig, India rubber-plant, India rubber-tree, rubber-plant (United States, English) ; caoutchouc (Haiti). 68 Palo de goma, India-rubber fig Natural size. Ficus elastica Nois. m MULBERRY FAMILY (MORACEAE) 22. Jaguey bianco, shortleaf fig Like the other wild and planted tree species of the same genus (Ficus), the commonest of the jagiieyes or wild figs of Puerto Rico is recognized by: (1) milky juice, or white latex, which exudes copiously from cut or broken parts; (2) aerial roots often extending from branches to the ground; (3) prominent long-pointed buds at end of each twig, formed by a scale (stipule) which makes a ring scar; and (4) small fleshy figlike fruits paired or single at leaf bases, with minute flowers hidden inside. Jaguey bianco is further distinguished by: (1) whitish bark; and (2) leaves with relatively long slender petioles %-2 inches long and short-pointed elliptic to oblong blades IV2-6 inches long and 34-314 inches broad, the 6-10 lateral veins on each side about Vi inch apart and nearly at right angles to midrib. A small to medium-sized spreading evergreen tree to 60 feet high and 2*4 feet in trunk diameter. The bark is smoothish, becoming slightly fissured. The inner bark is light brown, fibrous, and almost tasteless, the white latex also nearly tasteless. Twigs are greenish, turning to gray, have faint rings at nodes, and terminate in a long pointed green scale (stipule) %-% mcn long. Blades of the alternate leaves vary greatly in size and shape and are abruptly short-pointed at apex and rounded, short-pointed, or slightly heart- shaped at base, often a little thickened, hairless, and not toothed at edges. The upper surface is green to dark green, slightly shiny, with many tiny dots (raised on a dried leaf), and the lower sur- face is paler. As the flowers in this genus are not visible, it appears that the trees have fruits but no flowers. The figlike multiple fruit (syconium), actually a compound fruit, corresponds to an enlarged over- grown flower stalk bearing on the inner walls numerous tiny male and female flowers (monoe- cious) and the small seeds, each technically a fruit from a single flower. In this species the slightly fleshy rounded fruits about % inch in diameter are borne on slender stalks %-% inch long. They are greenish, often brown dotted, turning reddish and brownish at maturity, and edible though taste- less. There are 2 scales Vie inch long joined at base and a small pore at apex. Fruits are borne through the year. The sapwood is whitish, and the heartwood light brown. The wood is fairly lightweight (specific gravity 0.40), soft and tough, and strong for its weight. Nevertheless, it is not durable and is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. The rate of air-seasoning is slow, and amount of de- grade is minor. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing and sanding are good; shaping, turning, boring, and mortising are poor; and re- sistance to screw splitting is excellent. The wood is used for making guitars and for fuel. It is Ficus laevigata Vahl suitable for boxes, crates, interior construction, and light carpentry. The plants make excellent live feneeposts be- cause they root so readily from cuttings. Grown as an ornamental and shade tree in Puerto Rico and southern Florida. Young plants of this and some related species commonly start as air plants (epiphytes) high on a fork of another tree where birds have dispersed the seeds. After sending slender aerial roots to the ground, the vinelike plant grows rapidly. Its roots usually unite to form a trunk, sometimes strangling and killing the older tree. In forests, thickets, fence rows, and roadsides throughout Puerto Rico with the exception of the upper mountain regions. Also in Mona, Icacos, Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Aguirre, Cambalaehe, Carite, Guajataca, Guanica, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, San Juan, Susiia, Toro Negro, Vega. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys and through West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Grenada and Barbados. Other common names. — jaguey, jaguey macho, jagiieillo, jiguerillo (Puerto Rico) ; white fig (Vir- gin Islands); higuillo (Dominican Republic); jaguey, jagueicillo (Cuba) ; shortleaf fig, wild fig, wild banyan (United States) ; shortleaf wild fig (Bahamas) ; figuier (St. Lucia) ; figuier maudit, figuier blanc, figuier banian (Guadeloupe) ; figuier maudit (Martinique) . Botanical synonyms. — Ficus lentiginosa Vahl, F. laevigata var. lentiginosa (Vahl) Urban, F. populnea Willd., F. on vifolia Nutt., F. populnea var. brevifolia (Nutt.) Warb., F. laevigata var. brevifolia (Nutt.) Warb. This is a variable species of wide geographical range, composed of races within Puerto Rico and outside differing in size of leaves and fruits and in length of fruit stalks. Some taxonomists have distinguished 2 or 3 species and additional vari- eties. Recently, however, this species has been con- sidered a synonym of F. citrifolia Mill., inter- preted as a species of broad geographic distribu- tion in tropical America from Florida south to Paraguay. Besides the 2 native and 2 introduced species of this genus of figs described and illustrated here, several others have been planted for shade and! ornament. Another species of jaguey or wild fig (Ficus trigonata L. ; synonyms F. crassinervzq Desf., F. stahlii Warb.) native in Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands is characterized by stout, hairy twigs, petioles V2-D/2 inches long, oblong or ovate leaf blades 3-614 inches long and 14/2-4 inches broad, usually rounded at both ends, and rounded figlike fruits %-% inch in diameter, single or paired on stalks of i/g-i/i inch. 70 22. Jagiiey bianco, shortleaf fig Two-thirds natural size. Ficus laevigata Vahl 687-921 0—64 6 71 On St. Croix still another species of jagiiey or fig (Ficus obtusifolia II. B. K. ; synonym F. ur- baniana Warb.) is native and also planted. It has large leaves with stout petioles lV^-B inches long, ovate or elliptic blades 5-9 inches long, usually rounded at both ends, and rounded figlike fruits about % inch in diameter, finely hairy, usually paired, and almost stalkless with scales % inch long at base. MULBERRY FAMILY (MORACEAE) 23. Laurel de la India, India-laurel fig This large ornamental tree, planted in plazas in Puerto Rico, is distinguished by: (1) a short trunk and very dense globular crown; (2) small, dark green, slightly shiny, thick, leathery, elliptic leaves 1V&-3 inches long and %-f1/^ inches broad, with 3 main veins from the base; (3) numerous aerial roots about the trunk or hanging hairlike from the lower branches; (4) milky juice or white latex which exudes from the bark or leaves when the tree is injured; and (5) small rounded figlike fruits about 5/16 inch in diameter, paired and stalk- less at leaf bases. An evergreen tree to 65 feet high and 3 feet in trunk diameter, the crown often broader than tall. Bark is smooth and gray. The inner bark is whit- ish and tasteless, but contains slightly bitter latex. Each gray twig ends in a long-pointed green scale (stipule) % inch or less in length, which forms the bud. The leaves are alternate on petioles 1/4-% inch long. Leaf blades are short-pointed at both ends, and often nearly diamond-shaped (rhomboidal), paler beneath. The 2 lateral veins from the base continue near the toothless margin. The fleshy multiple fruits (syconia), with an in- conspicuous pointed opening at apex, are green, turning yellow or reddish at maturity. There are 3 pointed, finely hairy scales (bracts) y16 inch long at base. Inside the fruit are borne many tiny male and female flowers (monoecious) and seeds Fruiting probably through the year. Ficus retusa L.* The sapwood is whitish, and the heart wood is light brown. The wood is medium-weight, hard (specific gravity 0.5), has growth rings, and is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Planted in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands for ornament and shade. Large specimens are to be found in and around San Juan and in the plazas of various towns, particularly in the south- eastern part of the island. The dense crowns are frequently trimmed into rounded shapes. Diffi- culties of propagation have prevented this rapidly growing tree from being planted more commonly. Rooting of cuttings is uncertain but sometimes successful. Better results have been obtained by air layering, or marcottage, in which a fairly large branch can be used. In some places this tree is considered objectionable because of its size, the litter of the numerous fruits, or because of a thrips insect which deforms the foliage and may irritate the eyes of persons beneath the tree. Range. — Native of India and Malaya but widely planted in tropical regions. Southern Florida, Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Lesser Antilles, Trinidad, and Curacao. Also from Mexico to Chile and Brazil. Other common names. — jagiiey (Puerto Rico) fig (Virgin Islands) ; laurel de la India (Span- ish) ; laurel, alamo extranjero (Mexico) ; pivijay (Colombia); India-laurel fig, Indian-laurel (United States, English). Botanical synonym. — Ficus nit'ida Thunb, not Blume. 72 23. Laurel de la India, India-laurel fig Natural size. Ficus rctusa L. 73 MULBERRY FAMILY (MORACEAE) 24. Jagtiey Colorado This jagtiey or wildfig is distinguished by: (1) small elliptic leaves only 1 Vi- 3 inches long and %-l1/4 inches broad, short-pointed at both ends, dull reddish when young; (2) many straight, par- allel, lateral veins less than y16 inch apart on each side of midrib and nearly at right angles to it; (3) rounded figlike fruits less than V4 inch in diameter and on stalks about the same length, mostly paired or single at base of a leaf; and (4) milky juice or white latex. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree to 50 feet high (recorded also to 65 feet) and 1 foot in trunk diameter, with spreading crown. Bark is light grav and smoothish. The whitish inner bark is almost tasteless and contains white latex. Slen- der brown twigs end in a long-pointed green scale (stipule) 14-% inch long, which forms the bud. The alternate leaves have petioles V^-Vz mcn long. Leaf blades are thick and leathery, without teeth, dark green and slightly shiny on upper sur- face, and yellow green beneath. The figlike multiple fruits (syconia) are pale green when immature, becoming pink tinged or reddish and have a slight pointed opening at apex and 2 rounded scales (bracts) y16 inch long at base. Numerous minute male and female flowers Ficus sintenisii Warb. (monoecious) and seeds are formed inside the slightly fleshy fruit. Probably fruiting through the year. The sapwood is whitish and soft. The wood is soft, fairly lightweight (specific gravity 0.4), weak, and not durable. Used for fuel and posts. The broad, generally symmetrical dense crown makes this tree potentially an ornamental. Commonest in the upper mountain and moist limestone regions of Puerto Rico, often growing near the summits of limestone hills. Less common in the lower mountain regions. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guaniea, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Aba jo, Susua, Toro Negro. Range. — Known only from Puerto Rico. Other common names. — jagtiey prieto, jagtiey, higuillo prieto (Puerto Rico). The specific name honors P. Sintenis, botanical explorer who made extensive plant collections on three field trips to Puerto Rico in 1885-87. This species recently has been united as a synonym of F, perforata L., interpreted as a species of broader range in Bahamas, Greater Antilles, and from Guatemala to Colombia. 74 .\7 ^ TTT £Ml ^ill ; / ^ \V= ^ ^ 24. Jagiiey Colorado Natural size. Ficus xiiitciiixii Warh. 75 BUCKWHEAT FAMILY (POLYGONACEAE) Key to the 6 species illustrated (Nos. 25-30) A. Leaves rounded or short-pointed at apex, without faint lines ; fruits fleshy, without wings. B. Leaves round or nearly so. C. Leaves very large, 1-1% feet in diameter, appearing wrinkled with lateral veins deeply sunken — 26. Coccoloba pubescens. CC. Leaves smaller, 214-6 inches long, flat. D. Leaves longer than broad ; veins green, forming prominent network upon drying — 27. Coccoloba swartzii. DD. Leaves broader than long; midrib, larger veins, and young and old leaves often reddish — 28. Coccoloba uvifera. BB. Leaves elliptic, about twice as long as broad. E. Leaves leathery, broadest below middle, mostly rounded at both ends, with edges turned under — 25. Coccoloba diversifolia. EE. Leaves thin, usually broadest above middle, short- to long-pointed at apex and short-pointed to heart- shaped at base — 29. Coccoloba venosa. AA. Leaves long-pointed, oblong, with 2-5 faint lines on each side of and parallel with midrib; fruits dry, with 3 showy pink wings — 30. Triplaris americana* 25. Uvilla, doveplum Trees of this genus are recognized by the twigs ringed at the nodes with a membranous sheath (ocrea) at the base of the leaves. This species of limestone forests is characterized by: (1) the dis- tinctive smoothish mottled gray and brown bark, gray at first but peeling ofF in short thin flakes ex- posing brown beneath; (2) twigs ringed at nodes, with gray or brown membranous sheath (ocrea) 14 inch long at base of leaves; (3) elliptic to ovate leathery leaves U/o-S inches long and 7/s-2y2 inches wide, usually rounded at both ends and turned under at edges; (4) slender flower clusters with many short-stalked spreading 5-parted whitish- green flowers %,; inch across; and (5) rounded or egg-shaped dark red or purplish fruits %-*/£ inch long, slightly fleshy and edible. An evergreen, usually small tree to 30 feet tall and 10 inches in trunk diameter, often with sev- eral slender trunks and crooked branches. Large trunks may be buttressed, fluted, or angled. The inner bark is light brown and astringent or bitter. Twigs are green when young, becoming gray or sometimes brown, and bear alternate leaves. Petioles are Vi-% inch long, light green. Blades are sometimes blunt-pointed at apex. The upper surface, is dark green to green and dull or often shiny, and lower surface is slightly paler dull green. Flower clusters (racemes) are terminal and IV2- (') inches long. Flowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious) and have short stalks % inch or less in length. Male flowers have a short basal tube (hypanthium) less than Vic inch long; 5 spreading rounded whitish-green calyx lobes more than l/i6 inch long; 8 wbite spreading stamens attached to tube ; and rudimentary whitish pistil with ovary and 3 short styles. Female flowers have basal tube, 5 calyx lobes, minute non- functional stamens, and pistil with 1-celled ovary y1Q inch long and 3 spreading styles. The fruits consist of basal tube (hypanthium) with calyx lobes at the pointed apex, enclosing 1 Coccoloba diversifolia Jacq. large brown seed (akene) Vi~% inch long. The sour and somewhat astringent thin flesh is eaten by birds and children and prepared into jelly. With flowers or developing fruits nearly through the year. The whitish or light brown sapwood is hard. The wood is described as dark reddish brown, heavy (specific gravity 0.8), strong, and brittle. Employed in Puerto Pico mostly for posts and poles. Elsewhere reportedly used in cabinet- making. Popular for general planting and landscape work in southern Florida. Also a honey plant. In both the moist and dry limestone forest re- gions of Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Vieques, and St. Croix. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataea, Guanica, Susua, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — 7, 9, 11, 14, 24, 26, 28, 38, 44, 54, 55, 68, 75. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bahamas, Greater Antilles, St. Croix, and Lesser Antilles. Other common names. — uverillo ( Puerto Rico) ; uvilla, guayabon, uvilla de sierra, uva ciinarrona (Dominican Republic) ; uvilla, guaya- canejo, uverillo, uva de paloma, fruta de paloma (Cuba) ; doveplum, pigeon-plum, pigeon seagrape (United States) ; pigeon-plum (Bahamas) ; raisin marron (Haiti). Formerly referred to Coccoloba lawrifolia Jacq., a species described from Venezuela. Besides the 5 species of this genus illustrated here, 6 others of mostly small trees are native in forests of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands and are mentioned under related species. The 2 below are distinguished from that above by the more numerous female flowers 50 or more in along an axis instead of 10-20. Uvero de monte {Cocco- loba sintenisii Urban), known only from Puerto Rico, has oblong leathery leaves 5-8 inches long 76 25. Uvilla, doveplum Natural size. Coccoloba diversifolia Jacq. 77 and Zy2-5 inches wide, short-pointed at apex and heart-shaped at base, red flower clusters, and red flowers with stalks %6 inch or more in length. Coccoloba costata C. Wright (C. rupicola Ur- ban), rare in Puerto Rico but known also from Cuba and Hispaniola, has broadly ovate to elliptic or rounded leathery leaves mostly 2-7 inches long and 2— fl/2 inches wide, blunt or rounded at apex, green flower clusters, and green flowers with stalks less than y16 inch long. BUCKWHEAT FAMILY (POLYGONACEAE) 26. Moralon A distinctive medium-sized tree of moist moun- tain forests in central and western Puerto Rico, easily recognized by: (f) very large nearly round leaves 1-1% feet in diameter (often nearly 3 feet on rapidly growing sprouts), broader than long, heart-shaped and almost stalkless, thick, stiff, and leathery, appearing wrinkled with lateral veins deeply sunken, and finely hairy beneath ; (2) stout twigs ringed and enlarged at nodes, bearing at base of leaf a sheath (ocrea), split into brown finely hairy rounded lobes about Vj-1/^ inch long and appearing double; (3) numerous small light green flowers on short stalks along a stout terminal axis; and (4) rounded fruits %(5-V4 inch in diameter. An evergreen tree to 70 feet in height, the trunk becoming 2 feet or more in diameter and slightly buttressed when large, with spreading crown com- posed of few branches and few leaves. Young trees and sprouts are erect and unbranched. The gray bark is smoothish and slightly fissured, the inner bark light brown and slightly bitter. The stout gray twigs have raised dots (lenticels) and are green and minutely hairy when young. Ter- minal buds are short, rounded, brown, and finely hairy. The alternate leaves have stout green petioles about % inch long, so short that the bases appear to be clasping. Blades are rounded at apex, not toothed at edges, above green and shiny and be- neath yellow green with the network of veins raised and prominent. Leaves of mature trees found in Hispaniola are reported to be much smaller, as short as 3-4 inches in length. The narrow flower cluster (raceme) 5-8 inches long consists of a slightly curved light green axis Vh-Vi inch in diameter, minutely hairy, bearing flowers about %6 inch across, usually 2 or 3 to- gether on slender light green stalks about Vg inch long. Flowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious). The male flower consists of a light green cuplike basal tube (hypanthium) l/16 inch long and broad with 5 nearly round whitish- green calyx lobes Vie long; 8 slender white stamens Coccoloba pubescens L. V16 inch long united into a basal tube nearly as long; and rudimentary pistil composed of light green ovary x/16 inch long and 3 small whitish styles. Female flowers have basal tube, 5 calyx lobes, minute nonfunctional stamens, and pistil with ovary y16 inch long and 3 styles. When fruiting, the axis curves downward from the weight of the many fruits which are green and pinkish tinged when immature, consisting of the enlarged basal tube (hypanthium) enclosing 1 shiny brown 3-angled seed (akene) 3/16 inch long. The sapwood is whitish, and the heartwood red- dish brown with pores marked by dark gum. The very hard, heavy wood (specific gravity more than 1.0) is durable and employed for construction and furniture. It is resistant to attack by dry-wood termites. As a slow-growing ornamental for special plant- ings, this distinctive tree has been introduced spar- ingly in southern Florida and Cuba. In the moist limestone forest region and less commonly in the western half of the lower Cordil- lera region of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Guajataca, Maricao, Rio Aba jo. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Barbuda, Antigua, Montserrat, Nevis, Guadeloupe, Domini- ca, Martinique, St. Lucia, and Barbados. Planted in southern Florida and Cuba. Other common names. — hojancha (Dominican Republic) ; grandleaf seagrape (United States); leather-coat-tree (Barbados) ; raisinier grandes- feuilles, bois rouge, moralon (French West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Coccoloba grandifolia Jacq. A related rare species called ortegon ( < 'occoloba rugosa Desf.) is now known only from the south slope of the Luquillo Mountains but formerly was present also near San Juan. This small tree has the trunk unbranched or with very few branches, similar very large nearly round leaves 1-1 1 '2 feet in diameter but hairless, and reddish flower clus- ters and fruits. 78 26. Moralon Two-thirds natural size Coccohiba pubescens L. 79 27. Ortegon BUCKWHEAT FAMILY (POLYGONACEAE) Coccoloba swartzii Meisn. Distinguishing characters for this species usu- ally of mountain forests, include: (1) shiny green elliptic to broadly ovate to rounded leaf blades generally thick and leathery, 2V4-6 inches long and 2-4 inches broad, on short stout green petioles; (2) twigs ringed at nodes with a green sheath (ocrea) %-% inch high at base of young leaves; (3) the terminal erect green flowering axis gener- ally stout and V8-%6 inch in diameter, bearing many stalkless greenish 5-parted flowers singly and not crowded; and (4) slightly fleshy green to blackish egg-shaped fruit (akene) 5/16 inch long with calyx lobes at top. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree com- monly to 40 feet high and 8 inches in trunk diam- eter, but recorded to 50 feet in height and 3 feet in trunk diameter, with narrow or rounded crown. The bark is gray, smooth to slightly fissured, the brown or pinkish inner bark slightly bitter and gritty. The stout gray twigs are slightly crooked and bent at the ringed nodes. Leaves are alternate on petioles %-% inch long. Blades are blunt-pointed or rounded at apex and rounded or slightly heart-shaped at base, the edges not toothed, shiny green above and a little lighter green beneath. TTpon drying the minute network of small veins becomes slightly raised and promi- nent on both surfaces. The flower cluster (spike) is 4-12 inches long. Flowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious). The male flower %6 inch across has a cuplike scale at base and consists of basal tube (hypanthium) y16 inch long with 5 widely spread- ing calyx lobes more than y16 mcn l°n£< 8 spread- ing stamens, and rudimentary pistil. In the fe- male flower the stamens are small, and the larger pistil has a 3-angled 1-celled ovary and 3 styles. The fruit is composed of the basal tube (hypan- thium) y4 inch long bearing at apex the 5 calyx lobes more than y16 inch long and enclosing a shiny dark brown seed y16 inch long. Recorded in flower and fruit from June to September. The sapwood is whitish and hard. The heavy wood (specific gravity 0.7) is used in Puerto Rico chiefly for posts. In the lower and upper mountain forest regions of Puerto Rico, ascending to dwarf forests of the summits. Also in moist lowlands of Puerto Rico, Vieques, St. Croix, St. John, and Virgin Gorda. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Range. — Bahamas, Greater Antilles, St. Croix, St. John, Virgin Gorda, and Lesser Antilles from Saba to St. Lucia and Barbados. Other common names. — uvilla (Puerto Rico) ; uvillon (Cuba); tie-tongue (Bahamas). The common form known only from mountains of Puerto Rico and characterized by thick leaves and stout flowering axis has been distinguished also as a species (Coccoloba borinqu-ensis Britton; C. swartzii f. urbanii (Lindau) Howard). Three related species may be mentioned here. One called uvera (Coccoloba pyri folia Desf.), known only from Puerto Rico, has narrowly ovate leaves 2— il/o inches long and 1-2*4 inches wide, short-pointed or blunt at apex, veins inconspicuous on both sides, and round fruits only %6 inch in diameter. Uverillo (Coccoloba mierostachya Willd.; syn- onym C . obtusifolia auth., not Willd.) is a shrub or small tree widely distributed in the drier areas of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands and also in Hispaniola. It has small, mostly oblong or ovate leaves lVo-Si/o inches long and %-lVi inches wide, the apex short-pointed, rounded, or notched, the base rounded, veins prominent and forming dense network on both sides, and black fruit Vi inch long not angled. Coccoloba krugii Lindau, another shrub or small tree of drier areas of Puerto Rico, Anegada, and elsewhere in the West Indies, has ovate leaves 1-2 inches long and %-lVi inches wide, rounded at apex and heart-shaped at base, veins inconspicuous on upper surface, and 3-angled fruit 3/16 inch long. 80 27. Ortegon Coccolota swartzii Meisn. Two-thirds natural size. 81 BUCKWHEAT FAMILY (POLYGONACEAE) 28. Uva de playa, seagrape Usually limited to sandy and rocky seashores and coastal thickets, this familiar small tree or shrub is easily identified by: (1) the rounded or kidney-shaped thick and leathery leaves slightly broader than long, 3-6 inches long and 4—8 inches broad, heart-shaped at base, with short petiole and a reddish-brown membranous sheath (ocrea) 1/4~% inch high around stem; (2) midrib, larger veins, and young and very old leaves often red- dish; (3) the numerous small whitish or greenish- white flowers %6 inch across in narrow terminal and lateral clusters 4-9 inches long; and (4) the drooping grapelike clusters of crowded purple fruits about % mcn l°ng? elliptic or egg-shaped, and edible. Varying greatly in size from a low prostrate shrub on wind-swept beaches to a small, straggly or wide spreading tree to 30 feet in height and 1 foot in trunk diameter (rarely to 2y2 feet), ever- green, with rounded crown of few coarse branches and often branching near base. Sometimes a larger tree in protected or favorable sites. The smoothish thin bark is gray, on large trunks peel- ing off in small flakes and becoming mottled whit- ish, light gray, and light brown. Inner bark is light brown and bit ter. The stout spreading twigs are green and minutely hairy when young, becom- ing gray, with leaf sheaths and ring scars at nodes. The leaves are alternate on petioles y±-x/2 inch long. The blades, often turned on edge vertically, have margins slightly curved under and are hair- less or nearly so, the upper surface green or blue green and the lower surface paler. Erect flower clusters (narrow racemes) 4-9 inches long have numerous fragrant flowers on short stalks y/\§-y% inch long, male and female on different trees (dioecious). The male flower has 1/ 16 a greenish-white basal tube (hypanthium inch long and broad bearing 5 spreading rounded white calyx lobes more than y16 inch long; 8 stamens united at base; and rudimentary pistil. In the female flower the stamens are small, and the larger pistil has a 1 -celled ovary and 3 styles. The fruit has a thin fleshy covering (hypan- thium) with calyx at apex, sour or sweetish, and enclosing 1 elliptic seed (akene) % inch long. Flowering and fruiting through the year. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood is reddish brown. The wood is hard, moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.7), and very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. It takes a fine polish but is little used in Puerto Rico except for posts and fuel. Straight pieces should be suited for wood turning. Elsewhere, uses for furniture and cabinetwork have been reported. Coccoloba uvifera (L.) L. The bark contains tannin, and the astringent roots and bark have been used in medicines else- where. West Indian or Jamaican kino, an astrin- gent red sap exuding or extracted from cut bark, formerly was in commerce for tanning and dyeing. Jelly and a winelike beverage can be prepared from the fruits, which also are eaten raw. Bunches of fruits in conelike packets formed by rolling the leaves have been sold on the streets. Early Spanish colonists sometimes used the fresh thick leaves as a substitute for paper, scratching messages with a pin or other sharp point. This is one of the first woody species to become established on sandy shores, being more hardy in these exposed places and more tolerant of salt than most trees. For these reasons it is often planted as an ornamental or windbreak along the coast. Since propagation is from cuttings, female plants should be selected for fruits. Also fre- quently grown in southern Florida in landscaping and as a hedge trimmed to shape. A good honey plant. Very probably seagrape was the first land plant of America seen by Christopher Columbus, ac- cording to Nathaniel L. Britton. That authority, who visited San Salvador (Watling) Island in 1907, reported this to be the most conspicuous plant nearest the ocean. However, that island ap- parently was not the first discovered. On nearly all sandy and rocky seashores and coastal thickets in Puerto Rico, Mona, Desecheo, Icacos, Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada. Range. — Widely distributed on tropical Ameri- can shores. From central and southern Florida, including Florida Keys, and Bermuda throughout West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago, and Curacao and Aruba. On At- lantic coast of the continent from northern Mexico to Colombia, Venezuela, and Guianas. Other common names. — uva de mar, uvero (Puerto Rico) ; grape (Virgin Islands) ; uva de I tlaya, uva, uvero (Spanish) ; uva de mar, uva caleta (Dominican Republic) ; uva caleta (Cuba): papaturro (Honduras, Costa Rica); papaturro extranjero (Nicaragua) ; seagrape (United States, English); seaside-grape (Jamaica, Trinidad, British Guiana); grape (British Honduras) ; raisin la mer (Haiti) ; raisin bord-de-mer, raisinier bord-de-mer (Guadeloupe, French Guiana) ; zeedreifi, dreifi, dreifi di laman, seagrape (Dutch West Indies) : druif, zeedruif (Surinam). 82 28. Uva de playa, seagrape Two-thirds natural size. Cocroloha uvifera (L.) L. 83 BUCKWHEAT FAMILY (POLYGONACEAE) 29. Calambrena, chicory-grape A small tree with edible fruits characterized by : (1) a very spreading crown with nearly horizontal branches and leaves drooping in 2 rows; (2) short- stalked leaves with thin elliptic to obovate blade, usually broadest above middle, the much sunken lateral veins nearly parallel but curved and joining near edges and with membranous long-pointed sheath (ocrea) %-% inch long surrounding twig but soon shedding; (3) very slender erect terminal and lateral flower clusters 3-7 inches long, with numerous .short-stalked 5-parted greenish-yellow flowers more than y8 inch across, the male and fe- male flowers on different trees (dioecious) ; and (4) numerous showy fleshy white to pinkish fruits %6~V4 mcn long, egg-shaped, consisting of edible lobed calyx, and inside a shiny blackish seed (akene). A deciduous tree or shrub to 30 feet high and 8 inches in diameter. The brown bark is smoothish with raised dots (lenticels), the inner bark pink brown and slightly bitter. Twigs are green when young, becoming light brown with raised dots (lenticels), with remains of sheath or ring at nodes, and tearing alternate leaves. Petioles are V4-V2 incn hong, brownish green. After the basal sheath sheds, the base remains at- tached. Blades are 31/^-8 inches long and IV2— 1 inches wide, or larger on rapidly growing shoots, short- to long-pointed at apex and gradually nar- rowed to the short-pointed or slightly heart-shaped base, the edges not toothed, the upper surface green and slightly shiny, and lower surface dull green with raised veins. Coccoloba venosa L. Flowers are borne along the axis (spikelike raceme), 1 to few above a scale on stalks about Vie inch long. Each flower has a 2-lobed membranous scale about %e mcn long at base. The male flower consists of a minute greenish-yellow basal tube (hypanthium) with 5 spreading calyx lobes about V16 inch long, 8 stamens less than ]/16 inch long, and rudimentary pistil. The female flower has basal tube (hypanthium) with 5 calyx lobes, sterile stamens, and pistil with 3-angled 1-celled ovary and 3 styles. The fruit is broadly egg-shaped with fleshy calyx lobes, sweet and edible, surrounding the seed (akene) 1/8 mcn hong. Recorded in flower from May to September and in fruit in October. The wood is whitish, hard, and little used. In the dry coastal region of Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Guanica, Susua. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Lesser Antilles from St. Martin south to Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago. Reported from Jamaica nearly 200 years ago, perhaps in error. Also in Venezuela and introduced experi- mentally in Cuba. Other common names. — false-grape, cherry- grape, trible-grape (Virgin Islands); guarapo (Dominican Republic); checker-grape (Grena- dines); hoe-stick- wood (Barbados); white-grape, small - leaf - grape (Trinidad) ; sugary - grape (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Coccoloba nivea Jacq. 84 !9. Calanibrefia, chicory-grape Two-thirds natural size. Coccoloba venosa L. 85 BUCKWHEAT FAMILY (POLYGONACEAE) 30. Triplaris, anttree This handsome exotic is easily recognized by: (1) its straight tall trunk and narrow columnar crown; (2) smooth mottled brown and light gray bark peeling off in thin pieces or strips: (3) hollow (wigs ringed at nodes and ending in a long, nar- row, pointed, pale greenish or yellowish bud 2— 1 inches long; (4) large oblong long-pointed leaves with many parallel nearly straight lateral veins and with 2-5 faint lines on each side of and paral- lel with midrib; (5) small greenish very hairy flowers, crowded in erect clusters, the male and female on different trees (dioecious) ; and (6) showy masses of large odd reddish fruits at the top of the crown, about 1% inch long, consisting of an elliptic base and 3 oblong pink wings like a small shuttlecock. A medium-sized to large evergreen tree becom- ing TO feet tall and IV2 feet in trunk diameter, the trunk slightly angled or fluted. The bark, where peeled off, exposes a light gray layer beneath. Inner bark is pinkish and astringent. The green to brown stout twigs are often slightly zigzag. The scale (stipule) covering the bud makes a ring scar around the twig upon falling. The leaves are alternate on stout, short, flattened petioles V^-^A inch long. Blades are mostly 9-14 inches long and 2Vo-5 inches wide, sometimes only half as large, short-pointed at base, not toothed at edges. The faint lines parallel with midrib result from pressnre in the bud when the blade is folded under. The upper surface is dull to shiny green and hairless or nearly so, and the lower surface slightly paler dull green and with scattered brown hail's on midrib. Flower clusters (spikes and racemes) are lateral at base, of leaves, 2-8 inches long, densely light brown hairy, with flowers stalkless or short- stalked. Male flowers about %fi inch long have a funnel-shaped, tubular, 6-lobed, hairy calyx and Triplaris americana L.* 9 spreading stamens. Female flowers have a tubu- lar 3-lobed calyx, 3 petals, and pistil with 3-angled ovary and 3 slender styles. The fruit consists of* a basal elliptic swollen hairy calyx tube % inch or more in length with 3 reddish or pink-red. membranous, prominently veined wings ly^-ll'o inches long, formed from calyx lobes. Inside are the 3 narrow petals and 1 3-angled pointed shiny brown seed (akene). At maturity the fruit falls slowly like a parachute, spinning rapidly. Flowering in spring from Feb- ruary to May and in fruit in May and June. The whitish sapwood is soft. The wood of this or related species is reportedly used for construc- tion where native. When cut for fuel, the trunks are replaced by sprouts. In the natural environment the hollow twigs are inhabited by ants, usually vicious or ferocious stinging ones. An ornamental in some cities of Puerto Rico, having been introduced about 1924 and distribu- ted a few years later. Also tested at St. Croix. Range. — Northern South America, originally described from eastern Venezuela. Planted in southern Florida, Puerto Rico, and other tropical areas. Other common name. — long-john anttree (English). There is some doubt about the specific name of the Puerto Rican trees. According to Britton and Wilson 3 species were introduced : Triplaris ameri- cana L. from Central America though originally described from Venezuela, T. caracasana Cham, from Venezuela, and T. camingiana Fisch. & Mey. from Panama. The Puerto Rican trees appear to be the same as those planted in the Canal Zone and Cuba under the last named species, which origin- ally was described from Colombia. 86 30. Triplaris, anttree 687-921 0—64 7 One-half natural size. Triplaris americana L. 87 FOUR^O'CLOCK FAMILY (NYCTAGINACEAE) Key to the 3 species illustrated (Xos. 31-33) A. Leaves thin or slightly thickened, rounded or short-pointed at both ends, hairy at least when young; fruits dry, narrow, with 5 rows of dotlike glands. B. Leaves about half as broad as long, the lower surface densely fine hairy — 31. Pisonia albida. BB. Leaves nearly as broad as long, rusty brown hairy when young but becoming hairless or nearly so — 32. Pisonia subcordata. A.A. Leaves slightly thickened and succulent, short-pointed at both ends, hairless; fruits fleshy — 33. Torrubia fragrans. 31. Corcho bobo This tree of dry areas is characterized by: (1) brittle twigs; (2) opposite elliptic leaves 2-6 inches long and 1-3 inches broad, rounded or short -pointed at both ends, the upper surface slightly shiny green and hairless, and the lower surface paler and densely fine hairy; (3) many fragrant small greenish flowers in terminal branched clusters when leaves are shed or form- ing; and (4) numerous dark brown dry fruits % inch long and uUi inch in diameter, the upper half with 5 rows of raised glands and slightly sticky. A deciduous, usually small tree to 30 feet in height and 6-12 inches in trunk diameter with spreading crown, or shrubby. Base of trunk and roots are often enlarged, suggesting an elephant's foot with toes. The bark is whitish gray and smooth. Inner bark is yellow or light brown, gritty, and tasteless. Twigs are light green and finely hairy, becoming light gray. The leaves have finely hairy, pale yellow peti- oles i/j-l1/! inches long. The blades are thin or a little thickened and not toothed on edges. Flowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious) in terminal branched clusters (cymes) on a stalk about 1 inch long. Male flowers are short -stalked, consisting of greenish, finely hairy, 5-toothed bell-shaped calyx Vs hich long and usu- ally 8 stamens about Vi inch long. Female flowers Pisonia albida (Heimerl) Britton in widely forking branched clusters have slender stalks y%~y± inch or more in length; the greenish, finely hairy, 5-toothed tubular calyx y8 inch long, and pistil with 1 -celled, 1-ovuled ovary, style, and stigma. Fruits (akenes) are numerous in a spreading cluster of widely forking branches 2-31/2 inches long and broad, the whole cluster breaking off to- gether. The tubular calyx remains outside of the very narrow dark brown 1-seeded fruit. Flower- ing when leafless or with new leaves, from Febru- ary to May, and maturing fruits in late spring. The sapwood is yellowish or whitish. The heart- wood is yellowish, coarse-textured, with silvery gum in the pores, and moderately soft. Used only as fuehvood in Puerto Rico. It is reported that the sticky fruit clusters fallen on the ground can cause death of young chickens that get tangled in them. In forests and thickets in the dry coast and lime- stone regions of southern and western Puerto Rico. Also common in Mona and in Caja de Muertos. Public forests. — Guajataea, Guanica, Susua. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Mona, and Caja de Muertos. Other common names. — corcho bianco, corcho (Puerto Rico). 88 31. Coreho bobo Natural size. Pisonia albida (Heimerl) Britton 89 FOURXTCLOCK FAMILY (NYCTAGINACEAE) 32. Corcho bianco, water mampoo A medium-sized to large tree recognized by : ( 1 ) opposite, usually large, elliptic or nearly round leaves 21^-8 (sometimes 10) inches long and nearly as broad, mostly rounded at apex and rounded or often a little heart-shaped at base; (2) gray smooth trunk and branches; (3) numerous green- ish flowers crowded in stalked ball-like clusters 1— 1^4 inches in diameter, male and female on dif- ferent trees (dioecious) ; and (4) narrow dry fruits %-!/•> inch long and more than y1& inch in diameter, 10-angled, with 5 rows of dotlike glands near apex. This deciduous tree becomes 40-50 feet in height, with short, often thick trunk to 2-3 feet in di- ameter, stout branches, and rounded crown. The twigs are green and finely rusty-brown hairy when young, becoming gray and stout. The leaves have stout round petioles l-l1/^ inches long. Blades are without teeth on edges, rusty- brown hairy when young but becoming hairless or nearly so, shiny yellow green above and beneath dull light green with pinkish main veins. Flowers appearing with new leaves generally in early spring but sometimes in summer. The ter- minal and lateral clusters of fragrant finely hairy flowers have stalks 1-2 inches lone. Male flowers Pisonia subcordata Svv. have bell-shaped, f)-toothed calyx 14 inch long and 8-10 longer stamens. Female flowers, less crowded, consist of tubular 5-toothed calyx about y8 inch long and pistil with ovary, slender style, and much branched stigma. The 1-seeded fruits (akenes) are enclosed by the club-shaped or cy- lindrical calyx, gray green, maturing generally in spring. Wood is soft, whitish, lightweight (specific gravity about 0.5) , porous, and not durable. Fsed for net floats for fishing and as fuelwood in Puerto Rico and for boxes in Guadeloupe. In forests in the limestone and lower Cordillera regions of Puerto Rico. A race with very large thin leaves is found on limestone. Also in Icacos, Culebrita, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Anegada. Public forests. — Guajataca, Maricao, Rio Abajo. Range. — Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, and Lesser Antilles from Anguilla and St. Mail in south to Guadeloupe and Martinique. Other common names. — corcho, palo bobo (Puerto Rico) ; mampoo, loblolly (Virgin Is- lands) ; mapou (St. Barthelemy) ; mapou gris (Guadeloupe) ; mappoo (Dutch West Indies). 90 p\ 32. Corcho bianco, water mampoo Natural size. Pisonia subcordata Sw. FOUR^O'CLOCK FAMILY (NYCTAGINACEAE) 33. Corcho, black mampoo A small to medium-sized tree characterized by: (1) opposite, obovate or elliptic leaves, usually broadest above middle, 2-6 inches long and 1-21/2 inches broad, short-pointed at the apex and gradu- ally narrowed at base to a short petiole; and (2) clustered, cylindrical, fleshy, 1-seeded fruits Vi_1/4 inch long and -y16 inch in diameter, red, turning black, covered by the calyx with 5 teeth at apex. An evergreen tree 20-40 feet high and to 20 inches in trunk diameter, with rounded crown. The bark is smoothish, gray or brown. Inner bark is light brown, slightly bitter. Twigs yellow green when young, becoming gray. The leaves have yellow-green petioles 1/8~% inch long and slightly thickened and succulent blades, the edges not toothed, hairless, green or yellow green and slightly shiny above and paler beneath. Flowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious), numerous in stalked, erect, mostly ter- minal, branched clusters (panicles) 3-4 inches long and 1^-3 inches broad, short-stalked or stalkless, greenish, minutely hairy, slightly fra- grant. Male flowers have funnel-shaped 5-toothed calyx 3/]6 inch long and 6-10 longer stamens. Female flowers consist of narrow tubular 5-toothed calyx i/g inch long and pistil with ovary, slender style, and much branched stigma. Flowers and fruits appear from early spring to summer. Torrubia fragrans (Dum.-Cours.) Standley The sap wood is whitish and soft, The wood is little used in Puerto Rico and elsewhere has even been considered unsuitable for fuel. In forests of the moist coast, moist limestone, and lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also Mona, Icacos, Culebra, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Lu- quillo, Rio Abajo, Vega. Range. — Almost throughout West Indies (ex- cept Bahamas) from Cuba and Jamaica to Gre- nada, Barbados, and Tobago, and in Bonaire, Curagao, and Aruba. Also in northern South America from Colombia to Venezuela and Guianas. Other common names. — palo de corcho, maja- gua de mona, majagua, emajagua (Puerto Rico) ; perico, palo de perico (Dominican Republic) : barrehorno (Cuba) ; estribo (Colombia) ; mapoo (St. Lucia, Grenadines) ; beef wood (Barbados) ; mapoo (St. Bartbelemy). Botanical synonym. — Pisonia fragrans Dum.- Cours. A second species of this genus, known as ba- rrehorno (Torrubia discolor (Spreng.) Britton), is distinguished by the oblong or elliptic leaves rounded at apex and usually smaller, 1-21/& inches long and V2-il/2 inches broad. This shrub or small tree is recorded from Puerto Rico and Desecheo. 92 33. Coreho, black mampoo Natural size. Torrulia fragrans (Dum.-Cours.) Standley 93 MAGNOLIA FAMILY (MAGNOLIACEAE) Key to the 2 native species, both illustrated (Nos. 34-35) A. Leaves broadly elliptic to nearly round, abruptly short-pointed, hairless — 34. Magnolia portoricensis. AA. Leaves ovate or elliptic, short- or long-pointed, the lower surface silky gray green with fine hairs — 35. Magnolia splendens. 34. Jagiiilla This handsome tree of the central and western mountains of Puerto Rico is easily recognized by : ( 1) showy, very fragrant, white flowers 2-5 inches across the 7 or 8 petals, borne singly and terminal ; (2) leathery, broadly elliptic to nearly round leaves 3-8 inches long and 2-6 inches broad, abruptly short-pointed, bent upward on both sides of midrib, slightly shiny, dark green or green on upper surface and paler beneath giving the foliage a grayish cast; (3) hairless twigs ringed at the nodes; (4) foliage and bark with a spicy odor when crushed, as well as a spicy taste; and (5) long narrow terminal buds. A medium-sized to large evergreen tree attain- ing 70 feet in height and 3 feet in trunk diameter, with narrow crown. The gray bark is smoothish or slightly fissured, becoming rough on large trunks. Inner bark is light brown. The stout green twigs have terminal buds 2-3 inches long, green but becoming yellowish and tinged with brown, composed of a pair of scales (stipules) en- closing the new leaf and forming a ring scar when shed. The alternate leaves have green petioles %-l% inches long. Leaf blades have edges without teeth, are rounded at base, stiff, and hairless. The beautiful, large, spreading flowers have 3 whitish-green sepals and 7 or S white petals, all about l%-2i/2 inches long, broad and rounded at apex, and slightly thickened. There are nunier- Magnolia portoricensis Bello ous short-stalked stamens Vo inch long. Many pale yellow pistils Vi-V2 inch long, each with 1- celled ovary and curved style, are spirally ar- ranged on a central axis % inch high. Fruits are elliptic, conelike, 1^-2 inches long and 1 inch thick but slightly irregular in shape. Each ovary becomes a pod (follicle) and splits open to release 1 or 2 red triangular seeds, which remain attached by fine threads before falling. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The sapwood is light brown. The heartwood when freshly cut is olive brown or yellowish green, later becoming brown. The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.7), fine-textured, and spicy fragrant, and is susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Under the name laurel sabino, the wood is employed for furniture, cabinetwork, and simi- lar purposes. In forests of upper Cordillera region of Puerto Rico. Most of the larger trees have been cut, ex- cept in the most inaccessible areas. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Maricao, Toro Negro. Municipality w here especially common. — 19. Range. — Known only from mountains of Puerto Rico. Other common names. — burro mauricio, alciba. anonillo, ortegon (Puerto Rico); laurel sabino ( wood, Puerto Rico) . 94 34. Jagiiilla Natural size. Magnolia portoricensis Bello 95 MAGNOLIA FAMILY (MAGNOLIACEAE) 35. Laurel sabino Native only in the Luquillo Mountains of east- ern Puerto Rico, this large tree is characterized by : (1) young twigs and commonly the lower sur- faces of the leathery, ovate or elliptic leaves silky or satiny gray green with a dense coat of fine hairs giving a gray cast to the crown of the tree; (2) (wigs ringed at the nodes; (3) prominent narrow long-pointed terminal buds; and (4) large, showy, fragrant, white flowers 3 inches across the 6 or more petals, single or 2 or 3 together at ends of twigs. An evergreen tree becoming 75 feet tall and to 4 feet or more in trunk diameter, with narrow crown of dark green, spicy foliage. The trunk typically produces numbers of new shoots or suck- ers. Bark is gray, smoothish, slightly fissured or rough in age, the inner bark light brown, gritty, and slightly bitter. Twigs become green and nearly hairless, then brown. Terminal buds 2—3^ inches long are covered by a pair of united scales (stipules) , silky and gray green, enclosing the new leaf and forming a ring scar upon falling. The leaves are alternate on silky gray-green petioles %-l inch long. Leaf blades are 4—7 inches long and 2-3 inches broad, short- or long-pointed at apex and rounded or short-pointed at base, not toothed on edges, thick, and with the upper sur- face dark green and shiny. The flowers have 3 whitish-green sepals 1V4 inches long and 6 or more white spreading petals about IV2 inches long, broad and rounded at apex. Stamens are numerous, about V2 inch long, short- stalked. The many pistils are % inch or less in length, with 1 -celled ovary and curved style, spirally arranged in a conelike center % inch long. The elliptic conelike fruits are about 1V2 inches long and % mcn thick, greenish, with many pods (follicles), each splitting open and containing usu- ally 2 triangular, red, fleshy seeds more than Vi inch long, attached by threads. Flowering mainly from April to September and maturing fruit from spring to winter. The heartwood is very attractive olive green Magnolia splendens Urban when freshly cut, later becoming brown, the sap- wood whitish. Growth rings and dark streaks add to the figure. The wood is moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.59), hard, moderately strong, with a characteristic spicy pungent odor. It is easy to work but susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is minor. Machining charac- teristics are as follows: planing and sanding are fair; and shaping, turning, boring, mortising, and resistance to screw splitting all are good. The wood is used almost entirely for furniture and cabinetwork. Local demand is greater than the limited supply. Other suitable uses are for veneer, plywood, millwork, turning, boat plank- ing, construction, and carpentry. The spicy leaves have served as a condiment. Possibly this species would be suitable as an ornamental. Laurel sabino is native to an area where tree growth is so slow that production of the timber is not economical. The average trunk diameter growth rate of 46 trees in the natural forest dur- ing a 5-year period was only 0.06 inch per year. The larger trees of the forest are undoubtedly many centuries old. This, plus the fact that propa- gation for planting elsewhere is difficult because most seeds apparently are sterile, greatly limits the future of this tree. The species will always be preserved within a formally established natu- ral area within the Luquillo Forest, and young trees are being encouraged wherever they appear naturally. Nevertheless, in most areas the old overmature trees are being salvaged more rapidly than they are being replaced by nature. Restricted to the upper Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico, mostly within the Luquillo Forest. Public forest. — Luquillo. Range. — Known only from eastern Puerto Rico. Other common names. — Sabino, bella (Puerto Rico). Botanical synonym. — Talauma splendens (Ur- ban) McLaughlin. 96 35. Laurel sabino Two-thirds natural size Magnolia splendens Urban ANNONA FAMILY (ANNONACEAE) Key to the 6 species illustrated (Nos. 36-41) A. Fruit 1 from a flower, from many pistils united. B. Leaves with tiny pockets on lower leaf surface where side veins join midrib ; spines. C. Leaves broadest at middle: fruit with short, straight spines, inedible — 36. CC. Leaves broadest beyond middle; fruit with long, curved spines, edible — 37. BB. Leaves without pockets; fruits smooth, edible. D. Fruit with network <if lines on surface — 38. Annona reticulata.* DD. Fruit composed of many rounded tubercles — 30. Annona squamosa.* AA. Fruits many from a tlower. separate, inedible. E. Leaves ovate to oblong, long-pointed, thin ; fruits with long stalks — 40. Cananga odorata.* EE. Leaves oblong, short-pointed or rounded at apex, leathery ; fruits nearly stalkless — 11. Guatteria blainii. fruits bearing many fleshy Annona montana. Annona muricata* 36. Guanabana cimarrona, wild soursop Guanabana cimarrona, a wild species with in- edible fruit, is characterized by: (1) short-stalked oblong or elliptic leaves 3-7 inches long and 1V&-3 inches wide, abruptly long-pointed at apex and rounded or short-pointed at base, alternate and in 2 rows; (2) tiny hairy pockets or pits on the lower leaf surfaces where the lateral veins join the mid- rib; (3) greenish broad flowers single or paired on older twigs, about 1-1% inches long, composed of 3 heart-shaped, broad, short-pointed, thick fleshy outer petals; and (4) nearly round or egg- shaped green to yellowish fruit 21/^-5 inches in di- ameter, with many short straight fleshy spines and yellowish inedible pulp. A small deciduous tree to 20 feet in height, with an irregular spreading crown. The gray or brown bark is smoothish, with raised dots (lenticels), be- coming slightly fissured and slightly rough. Inner bark is brown and tasteless. The twigs are brown. The petioles are 14-% inch long. Blades are slightly thickened and leathery, the edges without teeth, shiny dark green above, and paler light green beneath. The stout flower stalks about % inch long are borne on older twigs. There are 3 broad, pointed, finely hairy sepals about %0 inch long; 6 concave, fleshy, minutely hairy, greenish petals, the 3 outer petals about 1-1% inches long, meeting by their edges to form the bud, and the 3 inner petals rounded and stalked, about 1 inch long, less thick and overlapping; very numerous narrow stamens %6 inch long, crowded in a rounded mass V2 mcn in diameter on the conical floral axis: and many narrow separate pistils %6 inch long, crowded in a central mass. The aggregate fruit is composed of the numer- ous united pistils and is covered with many soft greenish spines about Vs mcn l°ng, each represent - Annona montana Macfadyen ing a style. There are many shiny brown oblong seeds about % inch long. Probably flowering and fruiting most of the year. The sapwood is light brown and soft. The wood is used only for fuel. Elsewhere, such as in south- ern Florida, the tree has been grown as a stock for budding other species. In forests of the dry coast and southern slopes of the Cordillera of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques and St. Croix. Public forest. — Sustia. Range. — Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and St. Croix, Saba, St. Eustatius, Antigua, Guadeloupe. Martinique, and Trinidad. Also from Venezuela and Guianas to Brazil and Pent. Planted in southern Florida. Other common names.- -guanabana cimarrona, guanabana de perro (Dominican Republic) : guanabana cimarrona, guanabana de loma (Cuba) ; guanabana, turagua (Venezuela) ; guanabana (Peru) ; mountain soursop, wild soursop (United States, English) ; corossol zombi (Haiti) ; bos- zuurzak (Surinam) ; araticum ape (Brazil). A related native species is coyur or pond-apple ( A n norm glabra L.) , called also corazon eimarron, a small tree of coastal swamps of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands and of wide distribution north to southern Florida. It is distinguished by the smooth, yellowish, egg-shaped fruits. The pale yellow pulp is almost tasteless but can be eaten. The wood, which is very lightweight, has been used for floats of fishing nets and for bottle stoppers. In addition to the 3 following species of culti- vated fruit trees, a few other species of this genus have been introduced experimentally as fruit trees. The generic name has been spelled Anona also. 98 36. Guanabana cimarrona, wild soursop Matural size. Annona montana Maefadyen 99 ANNONA FAMILY (ANNONACEAE) 37. Guanabana, soursop Guanabana or soursop, a cultivated and wild fruit tree, is best known by its edible green fleshy fruits 6-8 inches long and about i inches broad, elliptic or egg-shaped, with many curved fleshy spines. Other distinguishing characters are : (1) the oblong or obovate leaves broadest beyond middle, short-pointed at both ends, slightly thick- ened and curved up on both sides of midrib, shiny green above and paler beneath, with a strong scent when crushed and alternate, in 2 rows; (2) minute round pockets on the lower leaf surface where the side veins join the midrib; and (3) the large, fleshy, pale yellow or sulfur-colored flowers nearly 134 inches long and broad, 3-angled from the 3 heart-shaped concave outer petals, borne singly. A small evergreen tree attaining 20 feet in height and 6 indies in trunk diameter. The bark is brown and smoothish, the pinkish inner bark tasteless. Twigs are brown or gray, bearing mi- nute raised dots (lenticels). The short petioles are V&~% bich long, and leaf blades 2y2-6 inches long and 1-3 inches broad, the edges without teeth, and hairless or nearly so. Flowers are terminal or lateral, on stout green stalks V2~% mcn l°ng? and have a strong pungent odor. There are 3 minute and inconspicuous broad green sepals % ni°h long; 3 pale yellow outer petals heart-shaped, pointed, concave, nearly 2 inches long and i/8 inch thick, fitting together at edges in bud and rough on outside, 3 smaller, pale yellow, rounded, concave, inner petals nearly iy2 inches long and less thick; and a hemispherical axis bearing very many crowded stamens 3/16 inch long and numerous compacted narrow white pistils :Vlfi inch long with sticky stigmas. The large, aromatic, fleshy fruits (aggregate fruits) weighing as much as 2-5 pounds are com- posed of the numerous united pistils each ending in a fleshy spine or short base of a spine y16 inch Annona muricata L.* or more in length, which grows from the style. The juicy, slightly sour, creamy white, edible pulp contains many shiny black or brown oblong seeds V2~% m(>n l°ng, each developing from a pistil. Flowering commonly from June to October, the fruit ripening mainly in the fall. The sapwood is whitish, and the heart wood is brown. The wood is soft, lightweight (specific gravity 0.4), and not durable. The wood, little used in Puerto Rico, has served elsewhere for ox yokes. Valuable for the fruits, which are eaten fresh and used in making drinks, ice cream, and pre- serves. Immature fruits have been cooked as vege- tables. Leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds have been employed elsewhere in medicines. An insecticide for lice has been made from the leaves. Easily propagated from seeds and rapidly growing. Planted for the fruits and wild or naturalized in thickets, pastures, and along roads throughout Puerto Rico but commonest on the coast and the lower southern slopes of the Cordillera. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda. Range. — Widely planted and naturalized in tropical regions of America and in western Africa. The native region perhaps is West Indies though not definitely known. Throughout West Indies except Bahamas and from Mexico to Brazil. Com- mon at Key West but infrequent on mainland of southern Florida. Other common names. — guanabana (Spanish) : guanaba (Guatemala, El Salvador) ; catoche, catuche (Venezuela) ; soursop (English) ; corossol (Haiti, French West Indies) ; corossolier (French Guiana) ; sorsaka, zuurzak soursap (Dutch West Indies) ; zuurzak, (Surinam) ; graviola, guana- bano, coragao de rainha ( Brazil) . 100 37. Guanabana, soursop Two-thirds natural size. Annona muricata L. 101 ANNONA FAMILY (ANNONACEAE) 38. Corazon, custard-apple Corazon or custard-apple is a cultivated and es- caped fruit tree distinguished by: (1) short-peti- oled lance-shaped to oblong leaves 314-8 inches long and 1-2 inches wide, long-pointed at apex and short-pointed at base, alternate and in 2 rows; (2) light green narrow flowers 3/4-l inch long, with ?> narrowly oblong fleshy petals not opening widely, usually a few together in a drooping lat- eral cluster; and (3) rounded or heart-shaped smooth reddish-brown fruit 3-5 inches in diam- eter, with a network of lines on surface, and with sweet, pale yellow, tallowlike, edible pulp. A small deciduous tree to 25 feet tall and to 1 foot in trunk diameter, with a very spreading crown. The gray or brown bark is smoothish, becoming shallowly furrowed. Inner bark is light brown, fibrous, and almost tasteless. Twigs are green and finely hairy when young, becoming brown or gray. Petioles are V4-% nicn l°nff- The blades, not toothed at edges, are thin, dull green above and slightly paler or gray green beneath, finely hairy when young. Flower clusters arise from a very short lateral twig but not at base of a leaf, the slender flower stalks about 1 inch long. Flowers have a strong fragrance. There are 3 broad, pointed, brownish hairy sepals less than Vs inch long; 3 narrow fleshy petals 34-l inch long, less than Vi inch wide, and 1 v inch thick, minutely hairy, light green, the inside keeled and pale yellow with purplish or red- dish spot at base, turning brown and falling, and •''» inner petals as minute pointed scales less than Vs inch long; very many tiny narrow whitish sta- mens less than l/1G inch long crowded together; and numerous tiny separate pistils y16 inch long with hairy greenish ovaries and pale yellow slightly sticky stigmas in a conical central mass. The base of the fruit is sunken next to the stout stalk. The aggregate fruit, formed from many pistils, has a coarse network of rhomboidal or hex- agonal markings which show the individual ova- ries. The soft sweetish edible pulp adheres closely to the seeds. There are many oblong shiny dark brown seeds about V2 inch long. Recorded in Annona reticulata L.* flower from June to September and in fruit from September to April. Sapwood is light brown. The lightweight weak wood is little used in Puerto Rico. Elsewhere ox yokes have been made from it. Though this species is widely cultivated as a fruit tree, other minor uses have been recorded. The pulp is used in home remedies. The powdered seeds serve as an insecticide to kill lice. A strong fiber can be obtained from the bark. The leaves and branches reportedly yield a blue or black dye and have been employed in tanning. Extensively planted around houses and spread- ing in roadsides, pastures, and forests, commonest in the coastal regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. It is not known whether this species is native here. Public forests. — Aguirre, Boqueron, Camba- lache, Guajataca, Guanica, Luquillo, Rio Abajo. San Juan, Susua. Municipalities where especially common. — 11,38. Range. — Native of tropical America, apparently in West Indies and Central America, the botani- cal type specimen from Jamaica. Now widely cul- tivated as a fruit tree north to southern Florida and spreading or naturalized over tropical Amer- ica through West Indies and from Mexico to Peru and Brazil. Introduced in the Old World tropics and becoming naturalized there. Other common names. — corazon (Spanish) ; mamon (Dominican Republic) ; mamon (Cuba) ; anon a (Central America) ; anonillo, anona colo- rada (Guatemala); anona colorada (El Salva- dor) ; anona de redecilla (Honduras, Nicaragua) ; anon, anonillo (Costa Rica) ; anon (Panama) ; anon pelon (Colombia) ; chirimoya (Venezuela) ; custard-apple, bullock-heart (United States, Eng- lish) ; coeur de boeuf (Jamaica) ; cachiman coeur boeuf (Haiti) ; cachiman coeur-de-boeuf (Guade- loupe) ; kasjoema, custard-apple (Dutch West In- dies) ; coracao de boi (Brazil). Common names in different languages describe the heart-shaped fruit. 102 it* 1 s 38. Corazon, custard-apple 687-921 0—64 8 Natural size. Annona reticulata L. 103 ANNONA FAMILY (ANNONACEAE) 39. Anon, sugar-apple Anon or sugar-apple, well known for its sweet- ish edible fruits, is a cultivated tree which also grows spontaneously. Its distinguishing charac- ters are: (1) twigs slightly zigzag, green and densely hairy when young; (2) short-stalked lance-shaped to oblong leaves 2-514 inches long and %-2 inches broad, alternate in 2 rows; (3) yellow-green narrow flowers %-l inch long with 3 narrowly oblong petals, usually a few in a lateral cluster ; and (4) nearly round or heart-shaped yel- lowish-green fruit 214-4 inches in diameter, cov- ered with a whitish bloom but soon turning black- ish where rubbed and bruised, composed of numer- ous rounded tubercles or raised segments, with whitish, sweet, juicy, custardlike or creamy pulp. A small deciduous tree attaining 10-20 feet in height, with broad open crown of irregularly spreading branches. The bark is brown, smooth- ish to slightly fissured into plates. Inner bark is light yellow and slightly bitter. The twigs be- come brown with light brown dots (lenticels). The green hairy petioles are 1/4-1/4 inch long. Blades are short- or long-pointed at apex and short-pointed or rounded at base, the sides some- times slightly unequal, the edges without teeth, inconspicuously hairy at least when young, mi- nutely dotted when examined with a lens, thin, dull green to dark green above, and beneath pale blue green and covered with a bloom. There are 1-A fragrant flowers on slender hairy stalks in short lateral clusters but not at base of a leaf. The 3 pointed green hairy sepals or calyx lobes are about Vi6 mcn l°ng; fbe 3 thick and fleshy outer petals %-l inch long and 14 m°b wide, yellow green, slightly hairy, the inside light yellow and keeled with a purplish or reddish spot at the thin enlarged base, and 3 minute pointed scales as inner petals; very numerous crowded white sta- mens less than y16 inch long in a central mass; and many separate pistils Vig inch long, with light green ovary and white styles, crowded on the raised axis. Annona squamosa L.* The aggregate fruit is formed from the numer- ous pistils of a flower, which are loosely united, soft, and more distinct than in other species of the genus. Each pistil forms a tubercle, mostly V2-% inch long and Vt-Vz mcn wide and a separate thin edible pulp, in which is imbedded 1 oblong shiny blackish or dark brown seed V2~% inch long. In flower and fruit nearly through the year. The sapwood is light yellow. The heartwood is brownish. The wood is soft, lightweight, and weak. The fruit pulp is eaten raw and may be used to prepare drinks or sherbet. The green fruits, seeds, and leaves have insecticidal properties. Else- where, the leaves, shoots, and roots have been used in local remedies. Planted in Puerto Rico for the edible fruits, spreading from cultivation in roadsides and val- leys and also in forests where possibly native. Commonest on the dry coast of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda. Grown more in the Virgin Islands than in Puerto Rico. Range. — Native of tropical America, but the original home uncertain. Named botanically from Jamaica. Now widely cultivated as a fruit tree and spontaneous or naturalized through the tropics of the world. Planted or naturalized in southern Florida, including Florida Keys, throughout West Indies, from Mexico to Brazil, and in the Old World. Other common names. — anon (Spanish) ; sara- muya, chirmoya (Guatemala) ; anona de Guate- mala (Nicaragua) ; anon domestico, anon de azucar (Colombia); chirimoya (Ecuador); sugar-apple, sweetsop (United States, English) ; apple-bush (Grenadines) ; cachiman cannelle (Haiti) ; pomme cannelle (Guadeloupe, French Guiana) ; scopappel (Dutch West Indies); kaneelappel (Surinam); ata, fruta de conde, pinha (Brazil) . 104 39. Anon, sugar-apple Natural size. Annona squamosa L. 105 ANNONA FAMILY (ANNONACEAE) 40. Ilan-ilan, ylang-ylang Tins East Indian ornamental tree is identified by: (1) branches and twigs drooping and bearing leaves characteristically in 2 rows; (2) thin ovate to oblong leaves long-pointed at apex and rounded at base; (3) odd. strongly fragrant, large though inconspicuous, yellow or greenish-yellow flowers with very narrow and long-pointed drooping petals 3-5 inches long and only V4-V2 mcn broad, 1-3 at base of a leaf; and (4) distinctive fruit consisting of 8-15 spreading, elliptic, fleshy, green to black berries mostly %-l inch long, resembling olives, spreading on stalks in a cluster 3-4 inches across, all formed from 1 flower. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree attain- ing -10 feet in height and 1 foot in trunk diameter, with a spreading crown. Reported to become a large tree in its native home. The bark is light to dark brown and smoothish, becoming fissured and rough. Inner bark is light brown, fibrous, and si ightly bitter. Twigs are light green when young, becoming brown, with slight spicy taste. The light green petioles of the alternate leaves are V4-% inch long. The thin blades are 3-8 inches long and 11/^-3 inches wide, the edges with- out teeth, slightly shiny green above and dull light green beneath. Flowers are borne in profusion on long slender light green stalks 1-2 inches long scattered along the twigs at leaf bases. The calyx has 3 broad pointed yellow-green lobes 1/4 inch long, spreading and slightly turned back; the 6 slightly thickened straplike petals are green when young, turning to greenish yellow and yellow, the inner 3 reddish tinged at base inside; very numerous stamens less than l/g inch long, crowded into a triangular mass, pointed and becoming reddish tinged at apex; and 8-15 separate green pistils crowded in center, less Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook. f. & Thorns.* than 14 inch long, the stigmas in a sticky mass. Several fruits developing from a flower have al- most tasteless flesh and usually 4 or 5 rounded flat light brown seeds 14 inch or more in diameter (6,400 to a pound). In flower and fruit through most of the year. The sapwood is whitish. The soft wood is not durable. Where the trees are native, small canoes and drums have been made from the trunks. A valuable volatile oil, known as oil of ilang- ilang and employed in perfumes, is the principal product of this tree. It is distilled from the flowers in the Philippines, East Indies, and India. The inhabitants of the East Indies anoint their heads and bodies with the oil or decorate themselves with garlands of the flowers. Occasionally planted as an ornamental and for its fragrance along the coast of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands (St. Thomas and perhaps others). Range. — Native of the Malayan region, includ- ing southern India, Java, Philippines, Malay Archipelago, and tropical Pacific islands. Spar- ingly introduced in other tropical regions and spread from cultivation. Planted in Cuba, His- paniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Guade- lope (recorded as naturalized) , and perhaps others of West Indies. Also in southern Florida, a rela- tively recent introduction in Central America, and in South America. Other common names. — ilang-ilang (Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands) ; ilan-ilan, ilang-ilang (Spanish) ; cadmia, cananga (Colombia) ; ylang- ylang (United States, English); ylang-ylang (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonym. — Canangiv/m odorafaim (Lam.) Baill. 106 40. Ilan-ilan, ylang-ylang Natural size. Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook. f. & Thoms. 107 ANNONA FAMILY (ANNONACEAE) 41. Haya minga A tree of the higher mountains, haya minga is distinguished by: (1) small, leathery, dark green, oblong, fragrant leaves in 2 rows on slightly zigzag blackish twigs which frequently are almost hori- zontal; (2) the greenish-yellow flowers about IV2 inches across the 5 spreading fleshy petals and borne singly on long stalks at base of leaves; and (3) clusters of many elliptic berries about V2 mcn long and y± inch thick from 1 flower. A medium-sized evergreen tree becoming 20-40 feet in height and l-l1/^ feet in trunk diameter, rarely larger. Sometimes the trunk is buttressed at base and often it is irregular in cross section, much thicker on 1 side. The bark is brown and rough, becoming dark and purplish black. Inner bark is pink with spicy taste. The twigs are mi- nutely hairy when young. Petioles of the alternate leaves are only Vs-1/* inch long. Blades are \y%-% inches long and %- li-g inches wide, stiff, short-pointed or rounded at apex and short-pointed at base, slightly turned under at margins, and beneath yellow green with veins raised. The flowers have a slight fragrance. Flower stalks are %-lVi> inches long. The calyx has 3 tri- angular lobes %6 inch long turned backwards; the 6 greenish-yellow, elliptic, finely hairy petals are V£-% hich long; there are numerous crowded small stamens less than y16 inch long in a circular Guatteria blainii (Griseb.) Urban mass y4 inch across; and a central group of many small pistils less than y8 inch long, each with a 1-celled 1-ovuled ovary. The fruit is composed of a cluster of many near- ly stalkless, spreading, short-pointed berries, each containing 1 large shiny brown elliptic seed. Flowering and fruiting more than once during the year. The sapwood is light brown or whitish. The wood is hard and heavy (specific gravity 0.8). Formerly it was used for construction but now chiefly for posts, since few large trees remain. In forests of the upper Luquillo and Cordillera regions of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Susua, Toro Negro. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico. Other common names. — negra lora, haya (Puerto Rico) ; yaya (Dominican Republic) ; purio fangar, purio prieto, ceda (Cuba) ; bois noir (Haiti). Botanical synonym. — G an an g a blainii (Griseb.) Britton. Haya blanca (Guatteria caribaea Urban; syno- nym Cawing a caribaea (Urban) Britton), a re- lated forest tree of the Luquillo region of Puerto Rico, has larger long-pointed leaves 3-8^ inches long and 114-2% inches wide. 108 41. Haya minga Natural size. Guatteria blainii (Griseb.) Urban 109 LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) Key to the 10 species illustrated (Nos. 42-51) A. Fruit without a cup at base. B. Fruit elliptic, black. 1-1% inches long, inedible — 42. Beilschmiedia pendula. BB. Fruit pear-shaped or nearly round, yellow green, 4-5 inches long, edible (avocado) — 51. Persea americana* AA. Fruit with cup at base. <'. Leaves very narrow, lance-shaped — 13. Licaria salicifolia. CC. Leaves broader, mostly elliptic. D. Leaves broadest below or near middle, mostly long-pointed. E. Fruits many, round, about 'n; inch in diameter, the cup covered with warts: leaves often with scattered raised dots (galls) — 18. Ocotea leucoxylon. EE. Fruits few or several. V-z inch or more in diameter; leaves without raised dots. F. Fruit cup about as Ions as broad. G. Fruit cup about y2 inch long and broad — 44. Licaria triandra. GG. Fruit cup about %-, inch long and broad — 15. Nectandra coriacea. FF. Fruit cup very short, flat, bearing calyx lobe., turned back — 17. Ocotea floribnnda. DD. Leaves broadest beyond middle, short-pointed or rounded at apex. H. Leaves clustered at or near ends of twigs. l^-SMs inches long — 50. Ocotea spathulata. HH. Leaves borne singly. 3-7 inches long. I. Leaves with lower surface densely hairy, reddish brown when young but becoming gray — 46. Ocotea cuneata. II. Leaves shiny on both sides, hairless or nearly so, veins mostly reddish tinged near base — 49. Ocotea moschata. 42. Guajon Distinguished by: (1) spicy foliage, twigs, and hark: (2) bark on large trunks peeling off and ex- posing rusty reddish-brown inner layers; (3) el- liptic, slightly leathery leaves often broadest be- yond middle, short-pointed at both ends, much perforated by insects on many trees ; (4) greenish- vellow flowers about ]/8 inch long and broad, sev- eral in a loose, long-stalked, branched, lateral cluster 3-5 inches long; and (5) the long elliptic black fruits l-D/o inches long and V2 inch in di- ameter, without a cup at base, fleshy and 1-seeded, borne singly. A medium-sized evergreen tree attaining 75 feet in height and 2i/> feet in trunk diameter. The dark brown bark is smoothish and slightly fis- sured, about Vi mcn thick, the inner bark light brown. The twigs are green and minutely hairy when young. The alternate leaves have petioles %-% inch long. Leaf blades are 3V2-6V2 inches long and 2-3V4 inches broad, hairless or nearly so at ma- turity, the edges not toothed, green on upper sur- face, and paler or covered with a bloom beneath. The flower clusters (panicles) have finely hairy branches bearing several short-stalked flowers. The greenish-yellow calyx is finely hairy and has *i lobes less than y16 inch long; there are 9 stamens and additional sterile stamens (staminodes) ; and pistil of 1-celled, 1-ovuled ovary with short style. Beilschmiedia pendula (Sw.) Benth. & Hook. f. Fruits (berries) are green, turning black at ma- turity, fleshy, with 1 large seed. As some common names suggest, they resemble small avocados and olives slightly. Flowering and fruiting from spring to fall. The sapwood is pale brown, and the heartwood is pinkish brown. The wood is moderately hard, strong, and heavy (specific gravity 0.54). It is Arery susceptible to damage by dry-wood termites. Rate of air-seasoning is slow, and amount of de- grade is minor. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing, shaping, sanding, and resistance to screw splitting are good ; turning and mortising are fair; and boring is poor. The wood is used for shipbuilding, general construction, flooring, furni- ture, cabinetmaking, and carpentry. It is reported that the fruits are eaten by hogs and other animals in Cuba. In lower Luquillo and Cordillera regions of Puerto Rico. Also in St. Thomas. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo. Range. — Greater Antilles, St. Thomas, and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to St. Vincent. Other common names. — aguacatillo, aguacate cimarron, cedro macho (Puerto Rico) ; aguacatillo, eigua amarilla (Dominican Republic) ; aceitu- nillo, aguacatillo, curavara, mulato (Cuba) ; slog- wood, slug- wood (Jamaica) ; laurier madame (Dominica). Botanical synonym. — Ht/fehndia pendula (Sw.) Nees. 110 42. Guajon Matural size Beilschmiedia pendula (Svv.) Benth. & Hook. f. Ill LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) 43. Canelilla This species is readily distinguished from other trees of the laurel family by the narrow leaves. Other characters for identification include: (1) spicy foliage, twigs, and bark; (2) narrow acute pointed crown on most trees; (3) lance-shaped leathery leaves, dark green or shiny green on upper surface, and gray green and finely hairy beneath ; (4) densely reddish-brown hairy young twigs; (5) small, whitish-green hairy flowers more than V16 inch long and broad, several in short lateral clusters; and (6) blackish elliptic fleshy fruit % inch long and Vi inch broad, in a spreading gray cup almost Vi inch long and broad, with double rim. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree to 50 feet high with a straight trunk to 1 foot in di- ameter. The dark gray or reddish-brown smooth- ish bark has many small warts ( lenticels) and peels off in large irregular flakes 1-6 inches long. Inner bark is light brown, spicy and bitter. Older twigs are slender, brown, and hairless. The alternate leaves have short reddish-brown hairy petioles Vs-% inch long. Blades are l3/^-^1/^ inches long and V->-l inch broad, long-pointed at apex and short-pointed at base, not toothed on edges, the upper surface becoming hairless, and the Licaria salicifolia (Sw.) Kosterm- lower surface remaining finely hairy with a net- work of many raised small veins. The small flower clusters (panicles) at leaf bases have several flowers on densely hairy branches. Calyx has 6 hairy lobes less than y1G inch long; there are 3 stamens with additional sterile stamens (staminodes) ; and pistil of 1 -celled ovary and slender style. The elongate fleshy fruits (berries) have a single large seed. Flowering and fruiting from latter part of February to September. The sapwood is light brown. The heavy wood (specific gravity 0.8) is used only for poles, posts, and fuel in Puerto Rico. In the moist limestone, dry coast, and lower Cordillera regions, chiefly in western Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Gu- anica, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susiia. Range. — Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, and Lesser Antilles from Antigua to Martinique. Other common names. — canela, canela del pais, canelillo (Puerto Rico) ; bois chique, bois fourmi (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonym. — Acrodiclidium salicifo- lium (Sw.) Griseb. 112 43. Canelilla Natural size. Licaria salicifolia (»Sw. ) Kosterm. 113 LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) 44. Palo de misanteco, Gulf licaria Found locally in northern parts of Puerto Rico, this species is characterized by: (1) spicy foliage, twigs, and bark; (2) twigs reddish when young; (3) narrowly elliptic leaves, slightly thickened, many with a long tapering point and short-pointed at base; (4) the small whitish flowers more than Vi6 inch long and broad, many in branched clus- ters 1V&-3 inches long; and (5) the elliptic green or dark blue fruits % inch or more in length, in a large thick red cup about V2 mcn l°nR anft broad with double rim or margin. A small evergreen tree to 30 feet high and 8 inches in diameter with broad rounded crown. The bark is dark brown and flaky or scaly. The slender twigs are finely hairy and with raised dots (lenticels). The leaves are alternate on petioles 14-V2 m°b long. Blades are 3-5 inches long and l-l3/4 inches broad, the edges not toothed, shiny dark green above, paler beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) are terminal and lat- eral, and have groups of small flowers on short, slender, hairy stalks. The tubular calyx has 6 lobes; the 3 stamens are united into a fleshy hairy tube or column ; and the pistil has a 1-celled ovary, slender style, and protruding flattened stigma. Licaria triandra (Sw.) Kosterm. The fleshy fruits (berries) are few in a cluster and 1-seeded. The cup has a second rim about Vg inch below the edge and is warty. Recorded in flower in May and in fruit in May and July. The wood is described as ash colored or greenish yellow, strong, and heavv (specific gravity 0.9). Used for posts in Puerto Rico. Reported as suit- able for interior construction and used for matches and matchboxes in Dominican Republic. This species has been suggested as a shade tree for southern Florida and Cuba. In forests of the moist limestone region of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques. Public forest. — Guajataca. Range. — Greater Antilles and Martinique. Also very rare in southern Florida. Other common names. — misanteco, palo misan- teco (Puerto Rico) ; cigua prieta (Dominican Re- public) ; lebisa, leviza, laurel de loma, laurel bianco (Cuba); Gulf licaria, Gulf misanteca (United States) ; sweetwood (Jamaica) ; laurier jaune (Haiti). Botanical synonyms. — Misanteca triandra (Sw.) Mez, Acrodict 'id 'him triandrum (Sw.) Lun- dell, A. jamaicense Nees, Licaria jamaicemw (Nees) Kosterm. 114 44. Palo <k> misanteco, Gulf licarla Natural size. Licarla triandra (S\v. ) Kosterm. 115 LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) 45. Laurel avispillo, Jamaica nectandra This tree is distinguished by: (1) spicy leaves, twigs, and bark; (2) shiny green or dark green, leathery, narrowly elliptic leaves usually short- pointed at both apex and base, pale beneath with a prominent network of veins on both surfaces; (3) small white flowers % inch or more across, 6-lobed, many or several in lateral clusters with pink or red branches: and (4) round or elliptic blackish or dark blue fruits about 1/2_% incn l°ngi with red cup. A small evergreen tree attaining 20-30 feet in height and 6-12 inches in trunk diameter, with a narrow crown. The bark is gra}r and smoothish. Inner bark is light brown. The slender twigs are green and slightly hairy when young, turning gi-ay. The leaves are alternate on short petioles V1-V2 inch long. Leaf blades are 2-6 inches long and 3/j-2i/2 inches broad, thickened and leathery (as the specific name indicates), often bent upward slightly on both sides of midrib, not toothed on edges. Flower clusters (panicles) are 1-4 inches long, bearing the fragrant flowers on slender stalks Vg-Vi inch long. The calyx has 6 widely spread- ing, white, finely hairy lobes %-%6 incn long; there are !) white stamens; and pistil with 1-celled ovary partly enclosed, style, and broader stigma. The fleshy fruits (berries) in drooping clusters have 1 reddish-brown seed. The cup is about 3/1Cy inch long and broad. Flowering and fruiting probably irregularly through the year. The sapwood is light brown, the heart wood dark brown. Elsewhere the wood has been used in car- pentry and cabinetwork and for poles. Planted for shade in southern Florida and Cuba. Reported to be a honey plant. It is said that cattle eat the fruits. Common in the moist limestone forest region of northern Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys and through West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Grenada and Tobago. Also in Mexico (Yucatan Peninsula), British Honduras, and ( Guatemala. Other common names. — avispillo, laurel, cigua, laurel cigua (Puerto Rico) ; pepper cillament (Virgin Islands); cigua blanca (Dominican Re- public) ; cigua, siguaraya, boniate, lebisa (Cuba) : laurel (Mexico) ; Jamaica nectandra, lancewood, Jamaica ocotea (United States) ; black torch, sweet torchwood (Bahamas); sweetwood, cap- berry sweet wood, small -leaved sweetwood (Ja- maica) ; laurier marbre (Grenada) ; sweetwood Nectandra coriacea (Sw.) Griseb. (British Honduras) ; laurier blanc (Haiti) ; bois doux negresse, bois violon, bois doux noir (Guade- loupe) ; sweetwood (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonyms. — Ocotea coriacea (Sw.) Britton, O. catesbyana (Michx.) Sarg. Five other species of this genus, known also as laurel, are native in moist forests of Puerto Rico, and 2 of these reported also from the Virgin Islands. Aguaeatillo (Nectandra antiUana Meisn.), of southern and eastern Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, has oblong or broadly lance-shaped leaves 2V>-9 inches long and 1-3 inches wide, long- pointed at apex and short-pointed at base, hairless except on main vein beneath. Laurel canelon (Nectandra hrugii Mez), of cen- tral and western mountains, has the twigs, petioles, branches of flower clusters, and the flowers rusty hairy; leaves oblong or lance-shaped, 41/£-L0 inches long and D/i-S1/^ inches wide, long-pointed at apex and short -pointed or rounded at base, veins sunken in upper surface and prominent beneath, hairy beneath and also above when young. Laurel prieto (Nectandra memoranacea (Sw.) Griseb.), also called laurelillo, has young twigs rusty hairy and oblong to elliptic leaves 3-10 inches long and 1-3 inches wide, long-pointed at apex and short-pointed at base, veins sunken in upper surface and prominent beneath, hairless or slightly hairy. This tree, included in "Puerto Rican Woods,'* was reported long ago from St. Thomas and St. Croix also. Laurel roset a (Nectandra patens (Sw.) Griseb.) has leaves elliptic, 3-8 inches long and 1V4-3 inches wide, usually short-pointed at both ends, leathery and with prominent veins on both sides, and hair- less except sometimes with tufts in vein angles be- neath; and fruit oblong, nearly 1 inch long, white, with red cup. Laurel amarillo (Nectandra sintenisii Mez), also called laurel macho, has young twigs with short flattened hairs and lance-shaped to elliptic leaves 2-8 inches long and 1-3 inches wide, long-pointed at apex, hairless, with few main veins. This tree, listed in "Puerto Rican Woods," was recorded long ago from St. Thomas also. A similar tree known also as laurel avispillo (Phoebe elongata (Vahl) Nees) has been confused with Nectandra coriacea. This related medium- sized tree is common in the eastern mountains and northern foothills of Puerto Rico and found also in St. Croix. It has leaves oidy slightly shiny, without prominent network of veins, and smaller flowers less than 14 inch across. The fleshy round or elliptic blackish fruit Vfc-% inch long has a 6-lobed cup formed from the calyx. 116 45. Laurel avispillo, Jamaica nectandra Two-thirds natural size. Nectandra coriacea (Sw. ) Gri.seb. 117 LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) 46. Canelon A distinct laurel recognized by: (1) dense, sym- metrical, narrow, conical crown; (2) spicy leaves, twigs, and bark; (3) the young twigs, petioles, lower surface of young leaves, flower stalks, and flowers covered with dense, reddish-brown, rusty, or cinnamon-colored hairs; (4) tbe leathery obo- vate leaves, broadest near the abruptly short- pointed apex and gradually narrowed toward tbe long-pointed, short-stalked base; (5) the spread- ing yellowish flowers % inch across in lateral branched clusters; and (6) the elliptic fruits % inch long and y2 inch in diameter, with large hem- ispheric double-margined cup. Medium-sized evergreen tree to 50 feet high and 1 foot in trunk diameter with straight trunk. The bark is brown or gray, smoothish and slightly warty, on large trunks becoming slightly furrowed, rough, and thick (y2 inch). Inner bark is brown, spicy and bitter. Young twigs are finely hairy and slightly angled, and older twigs are gray and hairless. The aromatic leaves are alternate on short, stout petioles y%~y2 mt'h long. Blades are 4-7 inches long and 2-3y2 inches broad, thick, not toothed at edges. The upper surface is green or dark green and finely hairy or nearly hairless, and the lower surface densely and very finely hairy, reddish brown when young but becoming gray. Flower clusters (panicles) are 3-6 inches long, narrow, with many slightly fragrant flowers on short hairy stalks. There are 6 spreading yellow- ish calyx lobes less than V$ inch long; 9 stamens; and pistil of partly enclosed 1-celled ovary, style, Ocotea cuneata (Griseb.) Urban and flattened stigma. The fleshy fruit (berry) is 1-seeded. Flowering from May to September, with fruits nearly through the year. The sapwood is whitish and hard. The wood is suitable for construction, but most trees are used for posts. Forests of the western moist limestone and lower Cordillera regions of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Guajataca, Maricao, Susua. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico. Other common names. — canela (Puerto Rico) ; sasafras (Dominican Republic) ; canelon, canelillo, achetillo, bijote, vencedor (Cuba) . In addition to the 5 species of this genus de- scribed here, 3 others known also as laurel are less common trees in Puerto Rican mountain forests. Palo santo (Ocotea foeniculacea Mez), from the Central Cordillera near Adjuntas, has elliptic leaves 2-314 inches long and 1-1 V2 inches wide, short-pointed at both ends, stiff, shiny, and hair- less. Laurel de paloma (Ocotea portoricensis Mez), called also laurel avispillo and known only from Puerto Rico, has elliptic leaves 2-4 inches long and %-iy2 inches wide, hairless, with callus-like thickenings in vein angles beneath, and has flow- ers male and female on separate trees (dioecious). Laurel canelon (Ocotea wrightii (Meisn.) Mez), of the western Cordillera, has oblong or lance-shaped leaves 2y2-5 inches long and %-lVi inches wide, long-pointed, and densely rusty hairy beneath when young. 118 46. Canelon 6S7-921 O — 04 — —9 Natural size. Ocotca cuneata (Griseb.) Urban 119 LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) 47. Laurel espada Characters distinguishing this species are: (1) long branches spreading outward from the trunk; (2) twigs, bark, and leaves spicy; (3) the lance- shaped or elliptic shiny dark green leaves 2-51/2 inches long and y^-VS-fa inches broad, slightly leathery, with long-pointed blunt apex and short- pointed base; (4) midrib and main lateral veins commonly yellowish white; (5) branched clusters of many small greenish-white flowers Vi inch across in lateral branched clusters; and (6) rounded or elliptic black fruits V2 hich long with very short, flat, double-margined cup bearing the calyx lobes turned back. Small to medium-sized evergreen tree to 60 feet tall and 1 foot in trunk diameter. The light brown bark is smoothish ; the inner bark also light brown, gritty and spicy to the taste. Twigs are green, sparsely hairy when young. The alternate leaves have petioles %-% inch long. Leaf blades are not toothed on edges. The lower surface of some is dull light green and slightly hairy on midrib and veins. Flower clusters (panicles) at leaf bases are 1-4 inches long, with finely hairy branches. The short-stalked hairy flowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious), the calyx with G Ocotea floribunda (Sw.) Mez spreading greenish-white lobes less than Vs inch long. Male flowers have. 9 stamens and a rudimen- tary pistil. Female flowers have small sterile stamens (staminodes) and pistil with 1-celled ovary partly enclosed, style, and broad flat stigma. The fleshy fruits (berries) have 1 rounded brown seed % inch in diameter. Flowering from October to December and maturing fruits from February to July. The wood is described as rose white, light- weight, and easily worked. It is used mostly for posts and fuel and occasionally as lumber in farm buildings in Puerto Eico. In Cuba it is employed for interiors in rural construction. Forests of the lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also in St. John and Tortola. Public forests. — Carite, Guajataea, Luquillo, Rio Abajo. Range. — Greater Antilles. St. John, Tortola, Lesser Antilles from Guadeloupe to Grenada, and Trinidad. Also in Venezuela and Guianas. Other common names. — laurel (Puerto Rico); laurel, laurel bianco (Dominican Republic) : boni- ato laurel, lebisa (Cuba) ; black sweetwood, black candlewood (Jamaica); laurier puant (Haiti): bois doux (Guadeloupe). 120 47. Laurel espada Natural size. Ocotca floribunda (Svv.) Mez 121 LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) 48. Laurel geo One of the commonest laurels, this species is characterized by: (1) spicy foliage, twigs, and bark; (2) a very dense rounded crown ; (3) ellip- tic leathery leaves 4-9 inches long and l1/2-31/4 inches broad, the apex short-, long-, or blunt- pointed, the base short-pointed or rounded, slight- ly shiny dark green on upper surface and paler beneath, often with scattered raised dots, which are insect galls; (4) branched clusters of numer- ous small yellow flowers %6 inch across near ends of twigs; and (5) very many round black fruits 5/iq inch in diameter, in a red or brown cup % inch long covered with light brown warts. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree to 50 feet high and 10 inches in trunk diameter. The bark is brown or gray, smoothish or becoming slightly fissured. Inner bark is light brown, with bitter spicy taste. Twigs are green and finely hairy when young, becoming brown, slightly angled. The leaves are alternate on petioles %-% inch long. Blades are hairless or nearly so and not toothed on edges. Insect galls forming scattered raised dots on the upper leaf surface are sufficiently characteristic of this species to serve in identifica- tion. Flower clusters (panicles) are 2—6 inches long, broad and much branched, single at leaf bases and appearing terminal, the branches green, angled, and finely hairy. The very many fragrant, almost stalkless Mowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious), the calyx with 6 spreading yel- low or pale yellow lobes more than Vw inch long. Male flowers have 0 stamens and a rudimentary pistil. Female flowers have minute sterile sta- mens (staminodes) and pistil with 1-celled, 1-ovuled ovary partly enclosed, style, and broader stigma. The fruits (berries) have thin flesh which is bit- ter and spicy, covering the nearly round seed about 1/4 inch long. Flowering and fruiting irregularly through the year. Ocotea leucoxylon (Sw.) Mez The sapwood is pale yellowish brown or cream colored, and the heartwood uniform light golden brown without figure. The wood is moderately soft, lightweight (specific gravity 0.45), moder- ately strong, and easily worked. It is not durable and is susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Rate of air-seasoning is moderate, and amount of degrade is considerable. Machining character- istics are as follows: planing, shaping, turning, mortising, and resistance to screw splitting are good ; and boring and sanding are fair. The wood is used mainly for posts but also in car- pentry and construction. It is suitable for inex- pensive grades of furniture and cabinetwork and for interior trim, general carpentry, light con- struction, boxes and crates, plywood, sheathing, and concrete forms. A general utility wood in Tobago. Formerly made into shingles in Jamaica, In Dominican Republic it is reported that the fruits are an important food for hogs. Widely distributed in forests of the moist coast, moist limestone, and lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also in St, Thomas and Tortola. Public forests. — Oambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Susua, Toro Negro, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — 22 62. Range. — Greater Antilles, Lesser Antilles from Montserrat to Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago. Other common names. — cacaillo, laurel, laurel geo-geo, geo, geo-geo (Puerto Rico) ; false avocado (St. Thomas) ; cigua laurel, cigua boba (Domini- can Republic) ; boniato, curabara, judio, hojancha, pataban de monte (Cuba) ; whitewood, loblolly sweetwood (Jamaica); duckwood, black-cedar (Trinidad and Tobago); laurier (Haiti): bois doux jaune, bois doux piment, laurier fine, laurier madame (Guadeloupe) ; laurier noir (Marti- nique). 122 48. Laurel geo Two-thirds natural size. Ocotea leucoxylon (Sw.) Mez 123 49. Nuez moscada LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) Ocotea moschata (Meisn.) Mez Known only from Puerto Rico, this aromatic tree is characterized by: (1) spicy foliage, twigs, and bark; (2) pronounced buttresses; (3) short- stalked, leathery, obovate or elliptic leaves mostly widest beyond the middle, blunt-pointed or rounded at apex and short-pointed at base, shiny on both sides, dark green on upper surface and yel- low green to brownish green beneath with raised veins on lower surface mostly tinged reddish near the base; (4) yellowish flowers about V4 inch across, rusty-brown hairy, in lateral clusters shorter than the leaves; and (5) large elliptic fruits to 114 inches in length, with hemispherical double-margined cup. A large evergreen tree to 80 feet in height and 214 feet in trunk diameter, with a compact narrow crown and buttresses to 3 feet high and 2 feet broad. The brown bark is smoothish, becoming fissured and sligbtly rough. Inner bark is reddish brown, with slightly spicy odor and taste. The brown twigs are finely hairy when young. The alternate leaves have stout petioles Vs-% inch long and blades 3-6 inches lonjr and l1/^-^1/^ indies broad, not toothed at edges. The upper sur- face is hairless and has slightly sunken veins, and the lower surface is hairless or nearly so. Short -stalked flowers are borne in branched clusters (panicles). Calyx has 6 hairy lobes more than Vg inch long; there are 9 stamens; and pistil has 1-celled ovary with style. The fleshy fruit (berry) contains 1 large seed. Flowering from spring to fall, the fruits maturing from winter to summer. The sapwood is yellowish to light brown, and the heartwood extremely variable, from medium brown to dark brown with irregular darker brown to black streaks or patches. The wood is hard and heavy (specific gravity 0.59) and has medium to fine texture. It takes a high polish but is very sus- ceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is minor. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing is fair; shaping, turning, boring, and re- sistance to screw splitting are good; and mortising and sanding are excellent. This attractive timber formerly was much used for cabinetwork. It is recommended for turning, furniture, cabinetmaking, and novelty items and should be suitable for light and heavy construc- tion, bridge timbers, heavy crating, and packing boxes. The fruits are used for medicinal purposes. Forests of the lower mountain region of Puerto Rico, commonest in and near the transition to the upper mountain forests. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Toro Negro. Range. — Known only from mountains of Puerto Rico. Other common names. — nemoca, nuez moscada cimarrona, nuez moscada macho, nuez moscada del pais (Puerto Rico). 124 49. Nuez moscada One-half natural size. Ocotca moschata (Meisn.) Mez 125 LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) 50. Nemoca This species of the eastern and central mountains is identified by: (1) branches forming distinct horizontal layers; (2) narrow buttresses at base of large trunks; (3) spicy leaves, twigs, and bark; (4) leaves clustered at or near ends of twigs, shiny and leathery, spoon-shaped (spatulate) or obo- vate, lVo-Si^ inches long and %-l1/2 inches broad, widest beyond middle; (5) greenish-yellow, rusty hairy flowers about Vi inch broad, in lateral clus- ters shorter than the leaves; and (6) large round or elliptic fruits Y^-^A inches long with shallow double-margined cup. A small or medium-sized evergreen tree to 45 feet high and l1/. feet in trunk diameter. The gray or brown bark is scaly, becoming thick and fissured on larger trunks. Inner bark is light brown and slightly spicy and bitter. Though crowded at ends of the brown twigs, the leaves are alternate. Petioles are short, only Vg-V^ inch long. The blades are blunt-pointed or rounded at apex and long-pointed at base, with edges turned under. Upper surface is dark green, with slightly sunken midrib and slightly raised lateral veins, and the green lower surface with raised veins. Flower clusters (panicles) are in the cluster of leaves, 1-2 inches long, branched and hairy, bear- ing several short -stalked flowers. The calyx has 6 widely spreading hairy lobes about Vs inch long; there are 9 stamens; and pistil with 1 -celled ovary partly enclosed and style. The fleshy fruit (berry), green when immature, has 1 large seed and a brown cup %-Vo inch high. Flowering and fruiting perhaps irregularly through the year. Ocotea spathulata Mez Nemoca is the most unusual and perhaps the most attractively figured commercial wood of Puerto Rico. The uniform sapwood is yellowish brown near the outside and pinkish brown toward the wide interior. The highly variegated heart - wood ranges from light pinkish brown to yellow- ish brown and greenish brown and has dark brown to black stripes, spots, or irregular lines. The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.62), fine- textured, and strong, but very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. It is moderately difficult to work but polishes satisfactorily. Rate of air- seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing is fair; shaping, turning, boring, sanding, and re- sistance to screw splitting are good ; and mortising is excellent. The wood is used for furniture, but few remain- ing trees are large enough to produce lumber of good size. It is suitable for furniture, cabinet- making, paneling, turnery, boat planking, farm implements, handles, heavy construction, and bridges. Forests of the upper Luquillo and upper Cor- dillera regions of Puerto Rico, ascending into the dwarf forests on summits of the peaks in Sierra de Luquillo and Sierra de Cayey. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo, Toro Negro. Range. — Known only from Cuba and Puerto Rico. Other common names. — nemoca macho, nuez moscada macho, nemoca cimmarron, canelillo (Puerto Rico). 126 50. Nemoca Natural size. Ocotea spathulata Mez 127 LAUREL FAMILY (LAURACEAE) 51. Aguacate, avocado Aguacate, the well-known fruit tree planted and sometimes growing as if wild, is characterized by : (1) shiny yellow-green pear-shaped or nearly round fruits about 4-5 inches long and 3-4 inches in diameter, with oily green and yellow flesh and 1 very large seed; (2) elliptic, slightly thickened leaves crowded near ends of twigs, slightly aro- matic when crushed, 3^-7 inches long and 2-3% inches broad, long- or short -pointed at apex and short-pointed at base; and (3) numerous greenish- yellow flowers about % inch across the 6 calyx lobes in many lateral branched clusters. A small to medium-sized deciduous tree attain- ing 15-30 feet in height, and IV2 feet in trunk di- ameter, with straight axis and symmetrical nar- row or rounded crown, old trees frequently lean- ing. The bark is brown or gray, slightly rough and fissure"d. Inner bark is orange brown, slightly spicy and gritty to the taste. Twigs are green, angular, and finely hairy, becoming brown. The leaves are alternate on yellow-green petioles 1/2-l1/i inches long. Blades are without teeth on edges, the upper surface green to dark green, slightly shiny, hairless or nearly so, and the lower surface dull gray green, finely hairy on veins. The flower clusters (panicles) near ends of twigs and shorter than leaves bear finely hairy flowers on short hairy stalks when trees are leafless or nearly so. There are 6 widely spreading, greenish- yellow, narrow, hairy sepals about %e incn l°ng? 9 greenish-yellow stamens more than Vs incn l°ng and 3 smaller sterile stamens (staminodes) ; and whitish-green pistil with 1-celled 1-ovuled ovary and slender style. The heavy fruits (berries), borne singly, hang down and bend the twigs by their weight. Inside the thin leathery skin is the edible thick soft flesh somewhat like butter. The brown elliptic or egg- shaped seed is about 2-2*4 inches long and up to 2 inches in diameter. Flowering from January to April or May and maturing fruits from late June to October. The sapwood is whitish and the heartwood light brown. The wood is moderately soft, heavy (spe- cific gravity 0.6), brittle, not durable, susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites, and seldom used. Persea americana Mill.* The nutritious fruits are eaten raw as a vege- table or salad, usually with salt added. They can be added to soups and in Brazil are made into ice cream. Hogs, other domestic animals, and wild animals are fond of the fruits. Commercial oils, such as a substitute for olive oil and oil for the hair, have been extracted from the pulp, which is reported to have an oil content of about 14 percent. The seeds yield a reddish-brown dye for marking clothing. Some parts of the plant, such as leaves, seeds, fruit rind, and bark, have been employed in folk medicines. The fragrant flowers are attrac- tive to bees and make this tree a honey plant. Many races, varying in size, shape, color, and quality of fruit and time of ripening, are in culti- vation. Propagation is from seed or, for the su- perior varieties, by budding. Planted nearly throughout Puerto Rico, most commonly on the coast and in the moist limestone and lower mountain regions. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native of tropical America, probably Mexico and Central America and not West Indies. Widely planted and escaping or naturalized in tropical and subtropical countries throughout the world, including southern Florida and Florida Keys (grown commercially also in southern Cali- fornia), throughout West Indies, and from Mexico to South America. Other common names. — pear, apricot (Virgin Islands) ; aguacate (Spanish) ; palto, cura (Co- lombia ) ; palta ( Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Argen- tina) ; huira-palto (Peru) ; avocado, alligator- pear (United States, English) ; avocado-pear (Trinidad and Tobago) ; pear, butter-pear (Brit- ish Honduras) : avocat, avocatier (French) ; zaboca (Haiti) ; awacati, advocaat, pear-tree (Dutch West Indies); advocaat (Surinam); abacate, abacateiro (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Persea persea (L.) Cockerell, P. grat'/ssima Gaertn. f. A related species of the mountains of central and western Puerto Rico is known as canela (Persea krugii Mez) . This native tree has smaller elliptic leaves D/^-4 inches long, hairy beneath, and much smaller rounded inedible fruits. 128 51. Aguacate, avocado Two-thirds natural size. Persea amcricaua Mill. 129 HERNANDIA FAMILY (HERNANDIACEAE) 52. Mago This tree with handsome foliage is easily recog- nized by: (1) large, ovate, slightly shiny, dark green leaves with long petioles attached 1^-1 11K'U above base of blade; (2) broad leaf blades 7-12 inches long and 4-8 inches wide, long-pointed at apex and rounded at base with 5 main veins, 2 on each side of midrib; (3) inconspicuous greenish- white flowers finely gray hairy, less than y2 inch long, borne in long-stalked lateral clusters; and (4) elliptic fruits 1-1 14 inches long inside a rounded, hollow, greenish-yellow, fleshy case about 2 inches in diameter. A large evergreen tree becoming GO feet high and 2 feet in diameter, thick trunks with small buttresses. The light brown bark is smoothish, slightly fissured, with small corky warts. Inner bark is light brown, slightly mucilaginous and bitter. The stout twigs are green and minutely hairy. The leaves are alternate on light green, minutely hairy petioles 6-10 inches long, nearly as long as the blades. Surrounding the end of the petioles, l he blades (peltate) are without teeth on margin, slightly thickened, hairless or nearly so, and light green beneath. Flower clusters (cymes) are lateral, 5-8 inches long, 3-6 inches across, somewhat flattened, with light green, finely gray hairy branches. Several to many flowers are borne usually 3 together, 2 male and 1 female (monoecious), above 4 green- ish-white bracts 1/4~% inch long. Male flowers on stalks i/8 incn or more in length are nearly % inch long and broad, consisting of usually 6 slight- ly thickened greenish-white sepals more than 14 inch long and 3 stamens each with 2 glandlike yellow sterile stamens (staminodes) at base. Fe- male flowers stalkless, nearly V2 inch long and % inch across, consist of a cuplike base l/g inch long around lower part of the inferior 1 -celled ovary nearly 14 inch long, usually 8 slightly thickened greenish-white sepals 14 inch long in 2 sets of 4 each, 4 glandlike yellow sterile stamens (stami- nodes), and curved style Vi inch long with large lobed stigma. The swollen case around the fruit (formed from the cuplike base) is about V16 mch thick, has an opening about V2 incn hi diameter, is sometimes tinged with red, and at maturity has a pleasant mellow odor like ripe apples. The single fruit Hernandia sonora L. (drupe) within is %-l inch broad, hard, blackish, with usually S longitudinal ridges, and 1-seeded. Flowering and fruiting reported at various times during the year. Sapwood and heartwood are indistinguishable, both grayish white with faint olive-colored streaks and numerous large darker pores. The wood is firm, soft, lightweight (specific gravity 0.29), of low strength, and easily worked. It is very sus- ceptible to attack by dry-wood termites and other insects and to decay. Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is minor. Machin- ing characteristics are as follows: planing and sanding are poor; shaping, turning, boring, and mortising are very poor; and resistance to screw splitting is excellent. Suitable uses are light boxes, crates, fishing floats, temporary boarding, interior construction, and as a substitute for heav- ier grades of guano (balsa). However, scarcity limits the use in Puerto Rico. Occasionally planted in the tropics and in sub- tropical Europe as an ornamental. Easily propa- gated from seed and grows fairly rapidly if not in dense shade. It is reported that the sap has been used as a depilatory, removing hairs from the face painlessly. In forests and along streams in the moist coastal region of Puerto Rico. Also infrequent in cultiva- tion as an ornamental and shade tree. Trees may be seen along the highway to El Yunque south of Mameyes and on the road between Maricao and Mayaguez. Public forest. — Luquillo. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to St. Vincent and Barbados. Also from Mexico to Costa Rica and from Colombia to Ecuador. Planted in other tropical and subtropical areas, including southern Florida, Other common names. — maga (Dominican Re- public) ; hoja tamal, mano de leon, tambor (Hon- duras) ; aguacatillo (Guatemala, Costa Rica); jack-in-the-box ( Barbados) . A closely related species (Hernandia gui/inensls Aubl.) formerly not considered distinct is found from Trinidad and Venezuela to the Guianas and northern Brazil. It is called cocojoro in Vene- zuela, toporite in Trinidad, and jack-in-the-box in British Guiana. 130 52. Mago Two-thirds natural size Hcrnamlia sonora L. 131 CAPER FAMILY (CAPPARIDACEAE) 53. Burro prieto, Jamaica caper This small tree or shrub of coastal thickets is identified by: (1) minute brown scales on young twigs, petioles, under side of leaves, flower stalks, flowers, and fruits; (2) elliptic, slightly leathery leaves short-pointed at apex and base, shiny yellow green on upper surface and silvery brown beneath ; (3) purplish flowers about % inch across or 2 inches across the long, spreading, brushlike sta- mens, borne in clusters at or near ends of twigs; and (4) long, narrowly cylindrical, light brown pods about 8 (-1—12) inches long and %6 inch in diameter, hanging downward, exposing the bright red inner wall upon opening. An evergreen tree or shrub attaining 10-20 feet in height, with dense compact crown. The dark gray or brown bark is smooth and thin, becoming fissured. Inner bark is light brown, with spicy taste like horseradish. The slender twigs are sil- very brown and angled, becoming gray. The leaves are borne singly (alternate) and have petioles V4_1/2 inch long. Leaf blades are common- ly 2-4 inches long and %-li4 inches broad, some- times much longer on young plant's or young shoots, the edges slightly turned under. Different racas vary in leaf sizes and shape. Flower clusters (corymbs) are lateral but ap- pearing terminal, about 2 inches long, with few to several fragrant flowers near end of an angled scalv brown stalk. Flower buds are slightly 4- angled. There are 4 pointed sepals % inch long, finely scaly on outside and hairy on inside; 4 el- liptic purplish petals y2 inch long, finely scaly on outside; many purplish stamens D/4-IV? inches long, with yellow anthers, widely spreading but soon withering; and scaly, narrowly cylindrical, 1-celled ovary %6 inch long including the flat stigma, at end of stalk about 1 inch long. The long-stalked pods, slightly narrowed be- tween the seed-, split open irregularly to expose the many elliptic shiny brown seeds Vi inch long. Different trees in flower and fruit at various times throughout the year. The sapwood is light brown. The heartwood is described as yellow\ tinged with red, hard, and heavy. Used only for posts and fuel in Puerto Rico. Elsewhere occasionally cultivated in parks and as a street tree. It is reported that the roots and leaves have been employed medicinally. In thickets, chiefly in the dry coastal region of Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Desecheo, Icacos, Culebra, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Capparis cynophallophora L. Public forest. — Guanica. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys and West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba through Lesser Antilles. Also in southern Mexico and Central America south to Panama. Cultivated outside the natural range. Other common names. — bejuco ingles, sapo (Puerto Rico) ; mostacilla, carbonero, ciguarayo, palo diablo (Cuba) ; olivo, frijol (Dominican Re- public) ; zic (Guatemala) ; endurece maiz (Nica- ragua) ; Jamaica caper, capertree, zebra wood (United States) ; black-willow (Bahamas, Ja- maica) ; bois Senegal, bois caca, bois d'argent (Haiti) ; bois noir (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonym. — Capparais ja?naicensis J acq. Five more species of this genus are native in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Known as burro and caper, these shrubs or small trees are characteristic of thickets in the dry coastal re- gions. Linguam (Capparis indica (L.) Fawc. & Rendle) is the only other species with minute scales on the twigs, under side of leaves, and flow- ers. It differs from the species described above in its flowers with short 4-lobed calyx only Vs mcn long and petals hairy as well as scaly. The other 4 species have hairless leaves and lack the minute scales. Palinguan or limber caper (Capparis fexuosa (L.) L.) has usually narrow, linear or elliptic leaves 2-A1/2 inches long and %-2 inches broad, blunt or notched at apex, and rounded or narrowed at base. Sapo or rat-bean (Capparis badueca L.) has large elliptic or oblong leaves 4-12 inches long and 11^-31/2 inches wide, short-pointed at apex, and rounded at base, and small flowers less than V2 inch long with the stamens no longer than the petals. The remaining 2 species have broader pods not narrowed between the seeds. Burro or broadleaf caper (Capparis coccolobifolla Mart.) has stiff, leathery, broadly elliptic leaves 2-4V2 inches long and 1V4-3 inches wide, rounded or notched at apex, and usually heart-shaped at base; and the fruit oblong, flattened, 4-7 inches long and 1V4 inches wide. Burro bianco (Capparis portoricensis Urban) has elliptic leaves lVo-^Vz inches long and 1-2 inches broad, rounded or short-pointed at apex, short-pointed at base; and the short elliptic fruit only IV4-2V2 inches long and about % inch wide. 132 53. Burro prieto, Jamaica caper Natural size. Capparis cynophallophora L. 133 HORSERADISH^TREE FAMILY (MORINGACEAE*) 54. Reseda, horseradish-tree This ornamental planted tree is characterized by : (1) feathery or fernlike foliage of 3-pinnately compound leaves l-D/o feet long composed of nu- merous thin elliptic leaflets Vi_% inch long and Vg-% inch broad; (2) many showy fragrant white flowers % inch or more across the 10 spreading sepals and petals, slightly irregular, in lateral clus- ters 4-8 inches long; (3) large, 3-angled, brown seed capsules 7-14 inches long and %-l inch broad, hanging down ; and (4) roots with odor and taste of horseradish. A small deciduous tree to 30 feet high and to 10 inches in trunk diameter, with spreading brittle branches. The whitish-gray bark is smootlvsh, fissured and warty or corky, becoming rough. The twigs are finely hairy and green, becoming brown. The alternate leaves have slender, finely hairy, green and reddish-tinged axes, the lateral ones paired. Leaflets are paired except for terminal one and have minute stalks less than yic, inch long. The blades are rounded or blunt-pointed at apex and short-pointed at base, the edges not toothed, green and almost hairless on upper surface, and paler and hairless beneath. Spreading or drooping flower clusters (pani- cles) have many minutely hairy flowers on slender hairy stalks. The basal cup (hypanthium) Vs inch long and broad bears 5 unequal white sepals about V-2 inch long; there are 5 unequal white petals %-% inch long; 5 stamens alternating with 5 smaller sterile stamens (staminodes) ; and pistil of 1 -celled ovary and slender style. The seed capsules with longitudinal ridges split open along the 3 angles. There are many seeds about 1 inch long, composed of 3 whitish papery wings around a dark brown rounded center !/o inch or less across. Flowering and fruiting through most of the year. The soft wood is little used in Puerto Rico, but the thick soft roots are a spicy condiment. It is reported that the corky bark can be made into mats. Root extracts, bark, and gum exuding from the trunk have been employed in some places in medicines. Ren oil, elsewhere extracted commercially from I he seeds of this and a related species, is a lubricant for watches and other fine mechanisms and a base Moringa oleifera Lam.* for perfumes and is said to be both edible and medicinal. In some localities the young pods, young leaves, and flowers are eaten cooked like stringbeans and greens. Leaves and twigs have been cut as fodder in India. The flowers are a source of honey. Grown chiefly as an ornamental and in fences and hedges. The plants are propagated by seeds and cuttings and coppice vigorously. Though spectacular for the abundant white flowers and long seed capsules, this irregularly shaped tree with weak, easily broken branches is not so attrac- tive when old. Moreover, in Puerto Rico it is very susceptible to attack by termites and for this rea- son not recommended as an ornamental. It is re- ported that this tree is the only tree in gardens of southern Florida that flowers every day of the year. Widely planted for ornament and along road- sides and escaping from cultivation in Puerto Rico, especially in the coastal regions. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Virgin Gorda. Range. — Native of East Indies, southeastern Asia, and India, but now widely distributed through the tropics. Planted and escaped or na- turalized in southern Florida including Florida Keys (planted also in southern California) and throughout West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago and Curagao. Also from Mexico to Peru, Paraguay, and Brazil. Other common names. — ben, angela, jazmin trances (Puerto Rico) ; moringa, palo de abejas, libertad (Dominican Republic) ; paraiso frances palo jeringa, ben (Cuba) ; paraiso de Espana, paraiso (Central America) ; perlas, paraiso bianco (Guatemala) ; teberinto, terebinto (El Salvador) ; jacinto (Panama) ; angela (Colombia) ; horse- radish-tree, drumstick-tree (United States, Eng- lish) ; maranga calalu (British Honduras) ; sai- jhan, St. John (British Guiana) ; benzolivier, ben oleifere (Haiti): maloko (Guadeloupe); ben- boom, salaster, orengga, moriengo, brenolli, or- selli (Dutch West Indies) ; peperwortelboom (Surinam). Botanical synonyms. — Moringa moringa (L.) Millsp., M . pterygosperma Gaertn. 134 54. Reseda, horseradish-tree Two-thirds natural size. Moringa oleifera Lam. 687-921 0 — 64 10 135 BRUNELLIA FAMILY (BRUNELLIACEAE) 55. Palo bobo This distinctive small to medium-sized tree of mountain forests, the only West Indian represen- tative of its small family, is recognized by: (1) the opposite pinnate leaves; (2) 11-15 (sometimes to 23) oblong, lance-shaped, long-pointed leaflets 2-5 inches long and 1-1 V& inches broad, with saw- toothed edges, also paired except at end; (3) stout greenish twigs with rings at nodes, finely rusty- brown hairy, as are the leaf axes and flower clus- ters. An evergreen tree attaining 15-25 feet in height and to 6 inches in trunk diameter, with thin, open, spreading crown. Bark on small trunks is smooth- ish and gray, Inner bark is light brown and slightly bitter. The leaves are 6-15 inches long. Leaflets are almost stalkless, rounded and oblique at base. The upper surface is green and almost hairless, and the lower surface gray green and finely hairy and with raised rusty-brown hairy veins. Flower clusters (panicles) are lateral, branched, and 2-5 inches long and broad. The numerous short -stalked small flowers about %6 mch long and broad are greenish yellow, some flowers containing both sexes and also male and female on different Brunellia comocladifolia Humb. & Bonpl. trees (polygamous). The calyx is deeply divided, with 5 pointed lobes about Vs inch long, rusty- brown hairy; corolla none; stamens 8-12, V8_%6 inch long, inserted at base of a lobed disk; pistils 5, separate, i/8 inch long, hairy, each with 1-celled ovary, style, and stigma. The fruits are star-shaped, Vi inch across, of 5 or fewer podlike parts (follicles) each about %6 inch long, bristly, rusty-brown hairy, splitting open, and containing 1 or 2 brown seeds. Flowers are formed in spring and summer, and fruits ma- ture in summer. The wood is light brown, hard, and lightweight (specific gravity 0.3). Used only for fuel in Puerto Rico. Forests of the upper Cordillera region of Puerto Rico, up to 4,000 feet elevation or higher. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Range. — Greater Antilles, Guadeloupe, and Venezuela and Colombia. Other common names. — cabra (Puerto Rico) ; guasima de pinares (Cuba) ; yuco rinon, berraco, jobo macho de tierra fria (Colombia) ; West- Indian-sumac (Jamaica), bois Mabel (Haiti). 136 55. Palo bobo Two-thirds natural size. Brunellia comocladifolia Humb. & Bonpl. 137 CUNONIA FAMILY (CUNONIACEAE) 56. Oreganillo A small tree or shrub of dwarf forests at high elevations on mountain peaks, recognized by: (1) opposite pinnate leaves 3-6 inches long with broadly winged axis and usually 9-17 stalkless elliptic toothed leaflets, paired except for the ter- minal one; (2) paired rounded stipules about V4 inch long and broad, forming a rounded narrow bud but shedding early, leaving ringed scars at nodes; (3) numerous minute white flowers tinged with pink, in narrow erect lateral clusters 2— 3^2 inches long; and (4) many narrow 2-lobed brown seed capsules %a inch long. An evergreen tree or shrub to 20 feet in height and 6 inches in trunk diameter. The dark brown bark is smoothish, inner bark light brown and bit- ter, and reportedly exudes a resin. The brown twigs are densely bristly with yellow hairs when young, becoming blackish. The leaves have a short hairy petiole. Leaflets are V2-I inch long and Vi_% inch broad, short- pointed at base, rounded at apex, with margins slightly turned under, stiff, above dark green with midrib and lateral veins sunken, and beneath light green with hairy midrib. The flowers are %tt inch long and broad across the stamens and are borne on short slender stalks along a hairy axis (raceme). There are 4 or 5 minute pointed sepals, 4 or 5 white petals about Vie inch long but falling early, 8 or 10 white stamens more than Vs incn long, and pistil less than y8 inch Weinmannia pinnata L. long with 2-celled ovary and 2 white styles. Seed capsules have sepals remaining at base and 2 pointed styles at apex and contain minute hairy seeds. Flowering mainly from August to October. The sapwood is whitish, and heartwood reddish brown. The hard, heavy wood is not used in Puerto Rico. Elsewhere the bark has been em- ployed in tanning. In dwarf forests on mountain peaks in the upper Luquillo and upper Cordillera regions of Puerto Rico mostly above 3,000 feet elevation. Public forests. — Luquillo, Toro Negro. Range. — Widely distributed in mountain for- ests at high elevations from southern Mexico to Peru, Brazil, and Venezuela. Also Greater An- tilles and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to St. Vincent. Other common names. — tamarindo de loma (Dominican Republic) : sabicii marahon, sabicu de pinares (Cuba) ; loro, lorito (Costa Rica) ; encinillo, arenillo (Colombia) ; saisai, curtidor (Venezuela) ; bastard brazilleto, wild brazilletto (Jamaica) ; bois tan rouge (Guadeloupe) ; bois siffleur (Martinique). A variable, widely ranging species with varieties differing in hairiness, number of leaflets, and other characters. This is the only West Indian repre- sentative of its family and of a genus common in mountain forests at high elevations in the Andes of South America. 138 56. Oreganillo Natural size. Weinmannia pinnata L. 139 ROSE FAMILY (ROSACEAE) 57. Icaquillo This small tree of mountain forests in Puerto Rico only is identified by : (1) ovate, long-pointed, shiny green, hairy leaves with veins much sunken ill upper surface and raised beneath, spreading in 2 lows on long, slender, sparsely branched, bristly hairy twigs; (2) pink and red flowers % inch long with 5 petals, a few or several in clusters almost hidden under the end leaves of a twig; and (3) dark red, elliptic, slightly flattened, 2-pointed, fleshy fruits V&-% inch long. An evergreen tree generally less than 20 feet high and 8 inches in trunk diameter. The bark is gray and smooth, inner bark brown and tasteless. The alternate leaves are stalkless or with very short hairy petioles less than Vs mcn l°ng- Leaf blades are lV^-^Vk inches long and %-l% inches broad, rounded or slightly heart-shaped at base, with edges turned under, the upper surface bristly hairy on midrib, and the lower surface paler and bristly hairy on veins. Flower clusters (racemes) are terminal or lat- eral, 1*4 inches or less in length, with few flowers on slender hairy stalks Vi-1/^ mcn l°n£- The hairy basal tube (hypanthium) is about y8 inch long and broad; there are 5 pinkish hairy sepals %6 inch long; 5 elliptic red petals more than Vi inch long, Hirtella rugosa Pers. slightly spreading; 3 long red stamens % inch long; and pistil consisting of hairy 1-celled ovary laterally placed and slender style attached near base. The fruits (drupes) are finely hairy, composed of thin, almost tasteless, juicy flesh and 1 brownish stone % inch long. Flowering and fruiting nearly throughout the year. The sapwood is light brown. The wood is hard, strong, and heavy (specific gravity 0.9), but be- cause of the small size of the trees is little used ex- cept for posts and fuel. An understory tree in forests of the lower moun- tain regions of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao. Toro Negro. Range. — Mountains of Puerto Rico only. Other common names. — hicaquillo, j icaquillo, juanilla (Puerto Rico). The other native species of this genus (Hirtella triandra Sw.) is distinguished by the narrower, lance-shaped to elliptic leaves very long-pointed at apex and short-pointed or rounded at base, the veins not sunken. It is found in moist forests but not confined to the mountains. 140 57. Icaquillo Natural size. Hlrtella rugosa Pers. 141 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) Key to the 3 subfamilies A. Flowers regular, with 10 to many long, spreading stamens, separate or united at base ; petals meeting by edges in bud: leaves bipinnate (pinnate in Inga) — Mimosa Subfamily (Mimosoideae ; Mimosaceae), this page below. AA. Flowers irregular, with 10 or fewer stamens, often united ; petals overlapping in bud. B. Flowers only slightly irregular ; the 5 petals separate, the largest petal innermost in bud ; leaves pinnate or bipinnate, sometimes of 2 leaflets or simple — Cassia Subfamily (Caesalpinioideae ; Caesalpiniaceae), page 168. BB. Flowers very irregular, beanlike or butterfly-shaped; the 5 petals being the standard (largest and outermost in bud), 2 wings, and 2 slightly united forming the keel; leaves pinnate, sometimes of 3 leaflets — Pea Sub- family (Lotoideae; Fabaceae), page 188. MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) Key to the 13 species illustrated (Nos. 58-70) A. Leaves pinnate, the leaflets in pairs. B. Leaf axis winged ; leaflets hairy ; pods nearly cylindrical, 4-angled — 64. Inga vera. BB. Leaf axis cylindrical, not winged ; leaflets hairless or nearly so; pods flattened. C. Leaflets 4 (sometimes only 2) — 62. Inga laurina. CC. Leaflets usually 6 or 8 (sometimes 4) — 63. Inga quaternata* AA. Leaves bipinnate. D. Leaflets very narrow, less than % inch wide, relatively long. E. Twigs with paired spines at nodes : lateral axes (pinnae) 1-6. F. Lateral axes 1 or sometimes 2 pairs, each with 12-25 pairs of leaflets %-% inch long; spines brown or gray — 70. Prosopis juliflora.* FF. Lateral axes 2-6 pairs, each with 15-25 pairs of leaflets ys-%6 inch long ; spines whitish — 58. Acacia farnesiana.* EE. Twigs not spiny ; lateral axes (pinnae) 3 to many pairs. G. Lateral axes no more than 10 pairs. H. Lateral axes 3-10 pairs, each with 10-20 pairs of gray-green leaflets %e~% inch long — 65. Leucaena glauca. HH. Lateral axes 8-10 pairs, each with 20-40 pairs of shiny, dark green leaflets % inch long — 67. Pithecellobium arboreum. GG. Lateral axes 20-35 pairs, each with 30-100 pairs of minute leaflets % inch or less in length — 66. Piptadenia peregrina. DD. Leaflets more than % inch broad, less than 4 times as long as broad. I. Leaflets 2 pairs — 68. Pithecellobium dulce.* II. Leaflets many, lateral axes (pinnae) 2-7 pairs. J. Leaflets slightly diamond-shaped, asymmetrical — 69. Pithecellobium «aman.* JJ. Leaflets oblong, rounded at apex. K. Leaflets oblique or asymmetrical at base. L. Lateral axes 2-4 pairs, each with 4-9 pairs of leaflets %-l% inches long; the flat pods straw- colored, more than 1 inch broad — 60. Albizia lebbek.* LL. Lateral axes 4-7 pairs, each with 6-14 pairs of leaflets ; the flat pods rich red, turning to brown, less than % inch broad — 61. Albizia procera.* KK. Leaflets symmetrical, rounded at both ends, with tiny point at apex — 59. Adenanthera pavonina* 58. Aroma, sweet acacia A spiny shrub or small tree of dry areas, char- acterized by: (1) the conspicuous paired whitish spines (stipules) at nodes on the slightly zigzag twigs; (2) twice pinnate (bipinnate) leaves 2-4 inches long, with 2-6 pairs of lateral axes (pin- nae), each with 10-25 pairs of narrow (linear or oblong) stalkless leaflets Vs-3/^ inch long; (3) very fragrant flowers in bright yellow balls (heads) about V-2 inch across the numerous stamens, on lateral stalks; and (4) dark brown to blackish pods 1^2-3 inches long and straight or slightly curved, 1-3 on a stalk. A deciduous shrub usually less than 10 feet high or sometimes a small tree, much branched and spreading. The bark is dark brown and smooth- ish. The twigs are dark brown with light colored dots (lenticels) and with paired spines Vs-SA incn or more in length. Often the alternate leaves are crowded on short spin- twigs and appear to be more than 1 at a node. The slender hairy axis bears a minute round %-i/2 inch broad, Acacia farnesiana (L.) Willd.* gland. The thin green leaflets sometimes as much as !%6 inch long are short -pointed at apex, rounded at base, and hairless or sometimes hairy around edges. Flower heads are borne 1-3 together on hairy stalks %-lV2 inches long and composed of numer- ous narrow flowers about *4 inch long ending in very many yellow threadlike stamens. The tubu- lar 5-toothed catyx is 14 6 inch long; the tubular 5-toothed corolla is Vs inch long; there are many threadlike stamens almost Vi inch long; and pistil 3/16 inch long of narrow ovary and slender style. The pods are thick and only slightly flattened and only a little narrowed between the seeds, contain sweetish pulp, and open late. There are several brown seeds, elliptic and slightly flattened, y16 inch long. Recorded in flower from November to February. The fruits remain attached after maturing. The sapwood is yellowish and the heartwood reddish brown. The wood is hard and heavy 142 18. Aroma, sweet acacia Natural size. Acacia farnesiana (L. ) Wilkl. 143 (specific gravity 0.8). Used only for fuel in Puerto Rico because of the small size but elsewhere serving for tool handles and farm implements. The shrubs are occasionally cultivated around houses and in gardens as ornamentals and in India for hedges. One of the principal products of this species is the perfume distilled from the flowers, known commercially as "cassie flowers."' In southern Europe, the shrubs are cultivated for this purpose. Likewise, in tropical America the flowers, after drying in the shade, are placed between linens to perfume them or put in clothes cabinets. The flowers are visited by bees. The leaves and pods are browsed by livestock. The bark and astringent pods, which are high in tannin content, are used in tanning, and the pods also in making ink and a black dye. The flowers, green fruits, bark, roots, and leaves have also been employed in local reme- dies. Mucilage can be prepared from the gum which exudes from the trunk and which resembles gum arabic, obtained from an African species of the same genus. The sticky juice of the pods has served to mend broken china. In thickets and forests in the dry coastal and dry limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also occa- sionally planted in gardens. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorcla. Public forests. — Guanica, Maricao, Susua. Range. — Widely distributed in tropical Amer- ica and spread by cultivation and naturalization. Southwestern border of United States (Texas, Arizona, and California) and Mexico to Chile and Argentina. Also through West Indies from Ba- hamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago and Curacao and Aruba. Naturalized in southeastern United States ( Florida to Louisiana) . Also natu- ralized in Old World tropics. This species spreads rapidly and may appear to be native in areas where it was brought in many years ago. In most of the West Indies perhaps introduced and naturalized. However, it has been accepted as native in Cuba. The type botanical specimen was collected in the Dominican Republic. Other common names. — casha, cassia (Virgin Islands) ; aroma, aromo (Spanish) ; cambron (Do- minican Republic) ; aroma amarilla (Cuba) ; huisache, quisache, binorama, subinche (Mexico) ; espino bianco, espinal, subin (Guatemala) ; cachito de aromo, espino, subin (Honduras) ; espino bianco, espino ruco (El Salvador) ; cachito de aromo (Nicaragua) ; pela, cuji cimarron, una de cabra (Colombia) ; cuji aromo, pauji (Venezuela) ; huaranga (Peru); espino bianco (Bolivia); es- pinillo (Uruguay, Argentina) ; sweet acacia, cas- sie, huisache (United States) ; aroma, cashia, opoponax (Bahamas); cassie-flower (Jamaica); cuntich, cashaw (British Honduras) ; casha, cassie (St. Barthelemy) ; acacia odorant (Guadeloupe) : casha (Dutch West Indies) ; esponjeira (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Vachellia farnesiana (L.) Wight & Arm A few other species of acacia, characterized by twice pinnate leaves and mostly paired spines, are native or introduced trees and shrubs. Acacia nudosa or spineless acacia (Acacia muricata (L.) Willd.) is a small tree with no spines, leaflets 8-16 pairs on each axis, and many small whitish flowers along an axis. Suma-catechu (Acacia suma (Roxb.) Kurz*), an Old World tree introduced on St. Croix, has leaflets 10-40 pairs on each axis and small whitish flowers along an axis. The others have small yellow flowers in balls. Tamarindo silvestre or steel acacia (Acacia macra- cantha Humb. & Bonpl.; synonyms A. macracan- thoides Bert., Poponax macracanthoides (Bert.) Britton & Rose), of the Virgin Islands, has leaf- lets 15-40 pairs on each axis and pods somewhat flattened. Twisted acacia or cassia (Acacia tortuosa (L.) Willd.; synonym Poponax tortuosa (L.) Britton & Rose), of the Virgin Islands, has leaflets 10-20 pairs on each axis and pods nearly cylindrical. Goma arabiga or gum-arabic (Acacia nilotica (L.) Delile*), from Africa, is sometimes planted for ornament and is reported to be naturalized locally. It has 10-30 pairs of leaflets on each axis and narrow flattened pods narrowed between the seeds. Anegada acacia (Acacia anegadensis Britton; synonym FishTockia anegadensis (Britton) Brit- ton & Rose), known only from the island of Ane- gada, has leaves with only 1 pair of lateral axes, each with 1 or 2 pairs of leaflets. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 59. Peronias, jumbie-bead Adenanthera pavonina L.* This introduced tree, locally naturalized, is iden- tified by: (1) the large twice pinnate (bipinnate) leaves 1-2 feet or more in length, composed of nu- merous oblong thin leaflets rounded at both ends and with a tiny point at apex; (2) the erect nar- row flower clusters 4—7 inches long, containing nu- merous crowded, small, pale yellow flowers Vi inch across; and (3) the shiny scarlet lens-shaped seeds % inch in diameter and nearly y4 inch thick, borne in pods 6-10 inches long. A medium-sized deciduous tree to 40 feet high and U/2 feet in trunk diameter, with spreading crown. The brown bark is smoothish with many small fissures. Inner bark is light brown. Twigs are stout and green. 144 5!t. Peronias, juiiit>ie-bead One-half natural size Adenanthera pavonina L. 145 The main axis of the alternate leaves is green, tinged with brown, with 2-5 pairs of lateral axes (pinnae), and the latter each bearing 11-21 leaf- lets. The leaflets also are alternate on short stalks less than !/8 inch l°ng and with blades %-l% inches long and %-% inch broad, edges not toothed, minutely and very inconspicuously hairy on both sides, dull green on upper surface, and blue green beneath. Flower clusters (racemes) are lateral and ter- minal, slender and unbranched, with many small flowers on stalks about Vs inch long. The tiny light green calyx y16 inch long is bell-shaped, 5- toothed; the 5 spreading, narrow, pointed, petals Y$ inch long ; 10 stamens a little longer than petals, pale yellow with brown anthers; and pistil %6 inch long with light green 1 -celled ovary and slender style. The dark brown pods are V2~% inch broad, curved, somewhat fleshy, flattened between seeds, splitting into 2 parts and twisting upon opening. The several showy seeds (about 1,600 to a pound) adhere to the opened pods. Flowering usually from late summer to winter (August to January), the fruit maturing in fall and winter and remain- ing attached for some time. The sapwood is light brown and hard. Heart- wood is reddish. The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.6-0.8), strong, and durable. It is used as roundwood or fuel. Elsewhere the wood has been employed in construction and cabinetwork and is the source of a red dye. This is a shade tree and ornamental in Puerto Rico. In Malaya grown as a shade tree for plan- tation crops. The shiny bright colored seeds after softening in boiling water serve as beads in neck- laces and novelties. Naturalized in the coastal and moist limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also in St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Mari- cao, Rio Abajo, Vega. Range. — Native of tropical Asia, first described from India. Planted and naturalized in other tropical regions including West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago. Grown in southern Florida and California. Cultivated in Dutch West Indies and South America from Venezuela to Brazil but very rare in Central America. Other common names. — coralitos, coral, mato Colorado, palo de mato, peronias chatas (Puerto Rico) ; Circassian-bean, coquelicot (Virgin Is- lands) ; coralitos, peonia (Dominican Republic) ; coralin, coral, coralillo (Cuba) ; sandal beadtree, red sandalwood, Circassian-bean, Circassian-seed (United States) ; red sandalwood, Circassian-seed (Jamaica, Trinidad) ; l'eglise (Grenadines) ; jumbie-bead (Trinidad) ; buckbead (British Gui- ana) ; reglisse, arbre a reglisse, arbre a. graines reglisse, corail vegetal (Guadeloupe) ; pau tento, tento Carolina (Brazil). LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MTMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 60. Acacia amarilla, tibet, lebbek Albizia lebbek (L.) Benth.* A common introduced roadside tree of the drier areas, acacia amarilla is characterized by: (1) twice pinnate leaves (bipinnate) 6-16 inches long, with 2-4 pairs of lateral axes and with many ob- long leaflets 3/4-l3/4 inches long and %-% inch broad, rounded at both ends and very oblique at base; (2) quantities of many fragrant cream- colored flowers clustered together at end of a lat- eral stalk in a rounded mass 2-3 inches across the many threadlike, spreading, whitish to yellow stamens tipped with light green; and (3) flat, broad, straw-colored pods 4-8 inches or more in length and 1-1 V2 inches broad, usually present in quantities. A medium-sized deciduous tree 20-40 feet high and to IV2 feet in diameter or larger, with spread- ing crown of thin foliage. The gray bark is smoothish, becoming fissured or rough, the inner bark pink and bitter. The twigs are greenish, be- coming gray or brown. The alternate leaves have a greenish or yellow- brown leaf axis bearing a small elliptic gland on upper side near base and 2-4 pairs of lateral axes (pinnae), each with 4-9 pairs of leaflets. Leaf- lets have very short stalks less than y16 inch long and thin blades, with the midrib not in center and sometimes a second prominent vein from base, the edges not toothed, dull green above, and beneath light green and sometimes minutely hairy. The terminal leaflets are broadest above middle (obovate). Rounded clusters (umbels or heads) of many spreading short-stalked narrow flowers are borne at the end of lateral stalks 1V&-4 inches long, singly or 2-4 together, each flower on a short, slen- der hairy stalk almost Vi inch long. The indi- vidual flower 11/4— l1/^ inches long to end of stamens has a tubular 5-toothed hairy calyx i/g inch long, narrow tubular white corolla %6 inch long includ- ing 5 pointed lobes hairy at end ; many threadlike spreading stamens united into a tube near base, whitish turning yellow, and light green toward tip; and pistil of narrow ovary and threadlike style. The seed pod, short-pointed at both ends, con- tains a row of several seeds and is swollen and de- 146 60. Acacia amarilla, tibet, lebbek Two-thirds natural size. Albizia lebbek (L.) Benth. 147 pressed around each seed. The oblong flattened brown seeds are % inch long. Pods are produced in great quantities, long persistent on the branches, late in opening, remaining after the leaves are shed. Flowering from April to September and with fruits nearly through the year. The sapwood is whitish, and the heartwood light yellowish brown to light brown. The wood is moderately hard, coarse-grained, strong, and fairly durable. It seasons well and works and polishes easily. In Puerto Rico used only for fuel and posts. Elsewhere the wood has been employed for furniture, paneling, veneering, turnery, and gen- eral construction. The bark has served in tanning, and a few parts of the tree in medicines. Propagated readily from seed, the trees grow well in dry areas, where they are sufficiently hardy to become naturalized. Reported to be tolerant of salt spray and suitable also near seashores. Planted for shade and ornament along roadsides and around houses, and naturalized in pastures and on hillsides in the moist and dry coastal regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native probably of tropical Asia in- cluding India and Burma but now widely planted and naturalized through the tropics. Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bermuda, and throughout West Indies. Also from British Hon- duras through Central America and South America to Brazil. Other common names. — lengua de mujer, len- gua viperina, casia amarilla, acacia, aroma, amor platonico (Puerto Rico) ; woman's-tongue, tibet- tree (Virgin Islands) ; chacha (Dominican Repub- lic) ; algarrobo de olor, aroma franeesa, forestina, cabellos de angel, musico (Cuba) ; acacia, canjuro (El Salvador) ; pisquin, muche, carbonero de som- brio, guarmuche, dormilon (Colombia) ; barba de caballero, saman (Venezuela) ; lebbek, lebbek al- bizia (United States) ; koko (United States, com- merce) ; ti bet-tree, woman's-tongue, siris-tree (English) ; black-ebony (Bermuda) ; singer-tree, whistling-bean (Bahamas); shack-shack, West- Indies-ebony, East-Indian- walnut (Trinidad) : tcha-tcha, bois noir (Haiti) ; vieille fille (Guade- loupe) ; barba di junkuman (Dutch West Indies) ; coracao de negro (Brazil). The peculiar rattling sound produced by the con- tinual movement of the dry pods in the wind is the origin of the common name of woman's-tongue (lengua de mujer) and in Cuba the more pleasant one. musico (musical). The generic name is spelled also Albizzia. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 61. Albizia, tall albizia Albizia procera (Roxb.) Benth.* This exotic tree of relatively recent introduction is planted along roadsides and in gardens. It is identified by : (1) twice pinnate leaves (bipinnate) 1-2 feet long, with many oblong leaflets reddish in color when first produced, %-i1/^ inches long and 5/16-% inch wide, short-pointed at both ends and very oblique at base; (2) showy flowers numerous in whitish balls with many spreading stamens about % inch across; and (3) thin flat pods 3-7 inches long and nearly % inch broad, rich red but turning to brown, containing a central row of 6-12 elliptic flattened green-brown seeds about 14 inch long. From acacia amarilla (Albizia lebbek (L.) Benth.*) it differs in having smaller flowers and seed pods and in the larger number of lateral axes in the leaf, 4-7 pairs. A rapidly growing deciduous tree becoming 30-60 feet tall with "straight trunk 1-2 feet in di- ameter, few branches, and spreading thin crown. The bark is smoothish, varying from very light brown to whitish or light greenish gray. Inner bark is soft and pinkish with a strong, peculiar, bitter, astringent, and irritating taste. The stout twigs are greenish brown, with many small longi- tudinal ridges. The yellow-green axis of the alternate leaves hears an elliptic gland 14 inch long on upper side near the enlarged base and 4-7 pairs of slender lateral axes (pinnae). There are 6-14 pairs of leaflets with short stalks Yl6 inch long on each lat- eral axis. The thin leaflet blades with the side nearer axis much broader, not toothed on edges, the upper surface dull green, and the lower surface pale gray green and inconspicuously hairy. Flowers are borne on several lateral axes (ra- cemes) 3-9 inches long near the end of a twig. An individual flower is stalkless and nearly % inch long, including the stamens, and has a green- ish 5-toothed calyx tube about Yg inch long; a whitish narrow corolla nearly 14 mcn l°ng includ- ing tube and 5 pointed hairy lobes; many white threadlike spreading stamens about %6 inch long, united into a tube in lower part ; and pistil with small narrow ovary and threadlike style. The pods, long-pointed at both ends, contain 6-12 seeds and have an enlarged dark spot outside each seed. Later they split open along 1 side to expose the papery walls and release the seeds. At maturity the large masses of red pods against the green foliage are showy, and then the brown dead open pods remain on the tree for some time, until the whole twig bearing the pods is shed. These pods and fallen leaves make undesirable litter in lawns and gardens. Recorded in flower in August and September and in fruit from January to June. The sapwood is whitish to light yellow, and 148 i5ss=S 61. Albizia, tall albizia Albizia procera (Roxb.) Benth. Leaf, one-third natural size. Flowers (above) and pod (below), two-thirds natural size. 149 heartwood is light brown to light chocolate brown. The wood is moderately hard and is resistant to attack by dry-wood termites. Used for shade and fuel. In India the wood has been employed for construction and agricultural implements. Introduced by the Commonwealth Forest Serv- ice in 1924 and sparingly planted in Puerto Rico, such as along roadsides for shade and fenceposts in the dry areas and in gardens. The propagation of this species for farm plantings was increased during the 1940's because it was considered a promising rapid-growing fuelwood species for the coastal and lower mountain regions. The trees may be raised from seed or cuttings. However, most of the trees have suffered severely from a fungus disease which causes dieback or death. For this reason the species is no longer propagated. Listed from St. Thomas more than a century ago. Range. — Native of tropical Asia from India to China and to Australia. Apparently an uncom- mon introduced tree in the American tropics. Sometimes planted in southern Florida. Other common names. — acacia (Puerto Rico) ; tall albizia, white siris (English) . LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 62. Guama, "sweetpea" Guama, which is commonly used for coffee shade, is characterized by: (1) alternate pinnate hairless leaves with leaflets usually 2 pairs (some- times 1 pair), green to dark green, elliptic or ovate, the outermost leaflets usually considerably larger than the first pair, slightly thickened, near- ly stalkless, and with a minute round gland on the wingless axis between each pair; (2) many white brushlike flowers with numerous spreading sta- mens and 1 inch across on an axis 3-6 inches long; (3) flat pods 21/2-4V2 inches long and %-1^4 inches thick, slightly curved and with raised border; and (4) whitish bark with prominent horizontal dark lines (lenticels). A medium-sized evergreen tree 50-70 feet high and IV2 feet in trunk diameter, with a rounded dense crown of dark green foliage. The inner bark is reddish and slightly bitter. The twigs are green when young, turning brown, with many raised dots (lenticels). Leaves are mostly 3-8 inches Ions', the slender green axis 1-4 inches long. Leaflet blades are •2-A inches long and 1-2 inches wide, blunt- or short-pointed at apex, short-pointed and slightly oblique at base, slightly shiny above, pale green beneath, not toothed on edges. Flower clusters (spikes) are lateral or terminal, single or paired, many slightly fragrant stalkless flowers being borne on a slender axis. The in- dividual flower, about %-% inch long to end of the stamens, has a greenish tubular 5-toothed calyx less than y8 inch long; greenish funnel-shaped tubular 5-lobed corolla, more than V4 inch long; many spreading white threadlike stamens %-% inch long, united into tube in lower part; and pistil % inch long composed of slender ovary and threadlike style. Often the flower cluster is de- formed and much branched as in a witches'-broom. The pods are Vs-%6 inch thick, rounded at both ends, green when immature, turning brown, al- most without edible pulp around the several seeds, not splitting open. Flowering and fruiting through the year. Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd. The sapwood is whitish, and the attractive heart- wood pale reddish brown, often streaked with darker brown. The wood is moderately hard, moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.62), coarse- textured, strong, tough, and easily worked. It is very susceptible to decay and to attack by dry- wood termites. The rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is moderate. Machining characteristics are as follows : planing, turning, boring, mortising, and resistance to screw splitting are good ; shaping is fair; and sanding is excellent. The wood is suitable for furniture, cabinetwork, tool handles, interior trim, general and heavy con- struction, crates, boxes, and flooring and has been recommended for veneer and plywood. However, in Puerto Rico it is seldom used except for fuel, charcoal, and fenceposts. The trees are planted extensively for coffee shade and elsewhere for shade for cacao also. This is an important honey plant. Forests and coffee plantations in the moist coast, moist limestone, the lower mountain, and the upper Cordillera regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guanica, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Aba jo. Susua, Toro Negro, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — 6, 47, 53, 59. Range. — West Indies from Hispaniola and Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands to Grenada and Barbados and Trinidad, and in northeastern Vene- zuela (Sucre). Also from western Mexico (Jalis- co and Guerrero) and Guatemala to Panama. Introduced into Cuba for coffee shade. Other common names. — Spanish-oak, pom- shock (Virgin Islands) ; jina (Dominican Repub- lic) ; guama de Puerto Rico (Cuba) ; palal (Guate- mala) ; cujinicuil, paternillo, chapernillo (El Salvador); guavo (Panama); sackysac (Trini- dad) ; Spanish-oak (Montserrat, Barbados) ; pois doux, pois doux blanc (Guadeloupe) : pois doux (Martinique). 150 02. Guama, "sweetpea" 687-921 0—64 11 Two-thirds natural size. Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd. 151 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 63. Guama venezolano A rapidly growing spreading tree with a dense crown, related to the native guaba and guama and introduced for coffee shade, characterized by: (1) alternate pinnate leaves with usually 3 or 4 pairs (sometimes 2) of obovate to oblong, nearly hairless, stiff, slightly leathery leaflets, 2y2-6 inches long, becoming larger toward apex, short- stalked, and with a round raised gland VI 6 inch across on the wingless axis between each pair of leaflets; (2) the loose ball-like flower cluster about 2 inches across the many spreading threadlike white stamens, the numerous individual flowers on stalks Vi_% inch long; and (3) fruit a flattened but thick pod 4—6 inches long and 1-1% inches broad with raised border, and often a little curved. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree, reach- ing a height of 25 feet and trunk diameter of 3 inches or more at age of about 5 years. When older, attaining a height of 30 feet and a diameter of 10 inches. Bark brown, smooth at first, ridged slightly later. The inner bark is light brown and slightly bitter. The twigs are dark brown and finely hairy when young. Leaves are 7-12 inches long, with a brownish- green or brown axis 2^-6 inches long, finely hairy, not winged, and ending in a point beyond last pair of leaflets. The leaflets have short stout stalks about i/g inch long. Leaflet blades are 1-3V2 inches wide, mostly short-pointed at both ends and broadest above middle, not toothed, nearly hairless except on veins, above yellow green to green and slightly shiny, and beneath dull light green. Flower clusters (umbels) are borne at the end of a lateral stalk i/>-l inch long, usually 2 clusters at base of a leaf. The narrow tubular light green calyx of the slightly fragrant flowers is %6 inch long, 5-toothed and finely hairy; the narrow tubu- lar whitish-green corolla about % inch long, 5- toothed, and finely hairy; the numerous white stamens are %~1 inch long including the tube Inga quaternata Poepp. & Endl.* nearly half the length and spreading % inch across; and the pistil about % inch long consists of narrow ovary and threadlike style. The pods are about V^-% inch thick, mostly rounded at both ends with a narrow point at apex and stalk at base, light green, turning bi'ownish, becoming hairless, and do not split open. There are several oblong seeds about % inch long in a thin white sweetish pulp. This whitish pulp is edible but too thin for the pods to be of commer- cial importance. Probably flowering and fruiting irregularly through the year. Flowers collected in July and August. The whitish sapwood is hard. The tree has been used only for coffee shade and fuel in Puerto Rico to date, mainly because of relatively recent introduction. Introduced about 1930 and distributed by the Puerto Rico Forest Service for coffee shade, this tree was at first thought to be immune to attack by hormiguilla, an insect pest on the related na- tive species. It has since proved susceptible; but as the tree is very adaptable, survives well, pro- vides a low shade at early age, and is very easily propagated, it probably will continue to be used for this purpose. Now found in coffee planta- tions in the upper and lower Cordillera regions and in the moist limestone region. Range. — Southern Mexico and Guatemala to Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil. Other common names. — bribri (Panama) ; shimbillo (Peru). Botanical synonyms. — Inga roussoviana Pit- tier, /. speciosissima Pittier. Besides the 2 native and 1 introduced species described here, a few other species of Inga have been planted for coffee shade. Guama peludo (Inga fastuosa Willd.*), from Venezuela, is easily recognized by the reddish-hairy twigs and large flat pods up to 12 inches long and 2V2 inches wide, also reddish hairy. 152 liiga quatvrnata Poepp. & End Two-thirds natural size. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 64. Guaba Guaba, the commonest coffee shade tree and also native or naturalized in wet forests, is easily dis- tinguished by: (1) alternate pinnate hairy leaves with 3-5 pairs of elliptic to oblong, stalkless, slight- ly drooping leaflets on a winged axis bearing a minute round yellow-green gland between each pair; (2) lateral clusters of several large whitish flowers with long threadlike stamens 2^-3 inches long and S-Sy2 inches across but soon wilting; (3) hairy pods 4—6 inches long and V2~~% inch in diam- eter, nearly cylindrical but 4-ribbed and with 2 broad longitudinal grooves, and containing white sweetish edible pulp. Medium-sized evergreen tree becoming 40-60 feet tall and 1-14/2 ^eet or more in trunk diameter (recorded to 3 feet), with very widely spreading crown of long branches and thin foliage. The bark is gray brown, smoothish but becoming finely fissured. Inner bark is pinkish to brown and slightly bitter. Twigs are brown and tend to zig- zag, with light colored dots (lenticels), and dense- ly brown hairy when young. The leaves 7-12 inches long are borne in 2 spreading rows on a twig. The axis 2y2-7 inches long is brown hairy, with a green wing Vi-% inch broad between each pair of leaflets. Leaflets are 2-6 inches long and 1-2% inches wide, larger from base toward apex, long-pointed at apex and short- pointed at base, not toothed, thin and slightly con- vex, the upper surface green, lower surface light green, and both surfaces slightly hairy especially on veins, and also slightly shiny. Flowers do not open at the same time, but usu- ally only 1 or 2 daily in each cluster. At dawn the flower is fully expanded, but during the day the stamens and style wither. Flower clusters (spikes) are single or paired at base of a leaf, con- sisting of several stalkless flowers crowded near the end of a hairy green axis 1-2V4 inches long. An individual flower with stamens fnlly expanded is white and 2i/2-3 inches long and 3-3l/£ inches across. A few hours later the flower is greenish, less than % inch long to end of corolla and %6 inch across corolla lobes, with the twisted pale yel- low stamens drooping iy2 inches or less below. The brownish-green finely hairy tubular calyx is cylindrical, 7/i6-V2 mcn long, and 5- toothed, often splitting on 1 side; the greenish-yellow corolla densely brown hairy, composed of a narrow cylin- drical tube about % inch long and 5 spreading lobes Vs incn long; the numerous spreading white threadlike stamens are united into a tube inside corolla ; and the white pistil is more than 2V2 inches long with narrow ovary and very slender style. Inga vera Willd. The pod is densely brown hairy and slightly curved, few-seeded, not splitting open, with calyx remaining at base. In flower and fruit through the year, but most fruits appearing in the fall. The sapwood is whitish, and heartwood pale brown to golden brown with longitudinal streaks or patches of darker brown often shaded with green or yellow. The wood is moderately hard, moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.59), strong, and tough. It is very susceptible to attack by dry- wood termites and other insects and to decay in contact with the ground. Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is moderate. Ma- chining characteristics are as follows: planing, turning, boring, mortising, sanding, and resistance to screw splitting are good; and shaping is poor. The wood is used almost solely for posts, fuel, and charcoal. However, it is suitable for utility furniture, boxes, crates, light construction, and general carpentry. On lower slopes and along streams this tree grows very rapidly, producing coffee shade within 3 years and growing in trunk diameter at a rate sometimes exceeding 1 inch per year. Also a honey plant. Common in active and abandoned coffee planta- tions throughout Puerto Rico except in the upper mountain, dry coastal, and dry limestone forest regions. Commonest at the northern base of the lower Cordillera, lower Luquillo, and moist lime- stone regions. Public forests. — Carite, Guajataca, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, and Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 1, 5, 6, 8, 19, 21, 27, 32, 35, 42, 43, 46, 47, 50, 53, 58, 61, 70, 73. Range. — Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico. Also introduced in Cuba and Guadeloupe and per- haps elsewhere for coffee shade. Other common names. — guaba del pais, guaba nativa (Puerto Rico) ; guama (Dominican Repub- lic) ; guaba (Cuba) ; pois doux, pois sucrin, su- crier, sucrin (Haiti) ; pois doux, pois doux poilu (Guadeloupe) ; pois doux a paille (Guadeloupe, Martinique). Named from material collected in Jamaica, this species is the one upon which this large genus was based. It has been reported also from Mexico, Central America, and northern South America but not by authors of the most recent floras. Botanical synonym. — Inga inga (L.) Britton. 154 64. Guaba Two-thirds natural size. Inga vera Willd. 155 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 65. Zarcilla, tantan, leadtree A small tree or shrub common along roadsides and in old fields in the dry areas, characterized by : (1) alternate twice pinnate leaves (bipinnate) 4—8 inches long, with 3-10 pairs of lateral axes (pin- nae), each with 10-20 pairs of stalkless narrowly oblong or lance-shaped gray-green leaflets 5/i6_% inch long and less than y8 inch wide; (2) flowers very numerous in whitish round balls %-l inch across the spreading threadlike stamens; and (3) usually many clustered dark brown pods 4—6 inches long and %-% inch wide, flat and thin, with raised border. A rapidly growing deciduous spreading tree 15-25 feet high and 2-4 inches in diameter or larger. The bark is gray or brownish gray and smooth with many dots or warts (lenticels). In- ner bark is light green or light brown and slightly bitter. Twigs are gray green and finely hairy, be- coming brownish gray. The gray-green leaf axes and lateral axes have swellings at bases. Leaflets are short-pointed at apex and oblique at the short-pointed base, thin, and gray green but slightly paler beneath. They fold upward together at night. The flower heads are borne on stalks %-lVi inches long in terminal clusters (racemelike) at ends of twigs or lateral and composed of many narrow stalkless flowers in a whitish round ball about %-!/£ inch across corollas in bud stage. Each individual flower 5/16 inch or more in length has a tubular, greenish-white hairy, 5-toothed calyx more than ]/1G inch long; 5 narrow greenish-white hairy petals nearly %6 inch long; 10 threadlike white stamens about '5/iq inch long; and slender- stalked pistil nearly 14 inch long with narrow green hairy ovary and white style. The pods are narrowed into a stalk at base, short- pointed at apex, and minutely hairy. They hang down usually many in a cluster and split open on both sides at maturity. In a central row are many flattened, oblong, pointed, shiny brown seeds 5/16 inch long (10,000 to a pound). Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The sapwood is light yellow. Heart. wood is yellow brown to dark brown. The hard, heavy wood (specific gravity 0.7) is used for fuel in Puerto Rico. The seeds, after softening in boiling water, are ;trung as beads into necklaces, bracelets, decora- tions on hats, and curiosities for tourists in the Vir- gin Islands and other localities. In the Philip- pines the young pods have been cooked as a vege- table and the seeds prepared as a coffee substitute. The bark and roots reportedly have been employed in home remedies. Bees obtain pollen from the flowers. In the Virgin Islands branches from trees along roadsides frequently are cut for live- Leucaena glauca (L.) Benth. stock feed, especially in the dry season. The leaves and pods are poisonous to horses, donkeys, and mules and, when eaten, cause these animals to shed their hair, especially that of the mane and tail (or even hooves if browsing is pro- longed, it is reported). Hogs are similarly af- fected, losing the hair along the spine, and rabbits are poisoned also. However, cattle, goats, and sheep can browse the foliage without ill effects. The poison is concentrated in the seeds and young leaves. The trees are easily propagated from seeds or cuttings and coppice well. Like weeds they read- ily invade cleared lands and frequently form dense pure thickets. This species has been used in some countries for coffee shade, cacao shade, and hedges. Being hardy it can be planted in pastures, to be followed afterwards by timber trees. In some areas the trees have been managed for fuel or charcoal on a short rotation of 6 or 7 years between cuttings. In the Far East this legume is grown to rebuild the soil and as a forage crop. In roadsides, abandoned pastures, and thickets, in the dry limestone and dry coastal regions of Puerto Rico. Also widespread in Mona, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Vir- gin Gorda. Public forests. — Aguirre, Cambalache, Guaja- taca, Guanica, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — 26, 38, 54, 55, 75. Range. — Throughout West Indies from Ba- hamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago and from southern Mexico to northern South America. Naturalized beyond the original range north to southern Texas and southern Florida (also planted in California) and in Bermuda and southward to Chile and Brazil. Also naturalized in the Old World tropics. Other common names. — tamarindillo, hedion- dilla, acacia, acacia palida (Puerto Rico) ; wild tamarind, wild taman (Virgin Islands) ; lino, granadino, granadillo bobo, lino criollo (Domini- can Republic) ; aroma blanca, aroma mansa, aroma boba (Cuba); guaje, uaxim (Mexico); barba de leon (Guatemala) ; panelo (Colombia) ; leadtree, white popinac (United States) ; jumbie-bean, wild mimosa, acacia (Bermuda) ; jumbie-bean, jimbay, cowbush (Bahamas) ; wild tamarind (Grenadines, Trinidad, British Honduras) ; shack-shack, West Indies mimosa (Trinidad) ; grains de lin pays (Haiti) ; bois-lolo, monval (St. Barthelemy, Gua- deloupe) ; macata (Guadeloupe) ; macata blanca (Martinique) ; tumbarabu, mimosa, tantan (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit, 156 Two-thirds natural size. Leucaena glauca (L.) Beiith. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 66. Cojobana This small to medium-sized tree is characterized by: (1) feathery, twice pinnate leaves (bipinnate) with minute narrow leaflets % mcn °r less m length; (2) small flowers numerous and crowded in whitish-yellow balls %-1/£ inch in diameter, several in stalked lateral clusters; (3) brown flat and thin pods 3-8 inches long and about % inch broad, slightly narrowed between the seeds, and finely scaly; and (4) very rough, gray, brown, or blackish bark on larger trees, thick, deeply fur- rowed, and with prominent warts or irregular ridges. A deciduous tree becoming 20-40 feet high and 8 inches or more in trunk diameter, generally much smaller, with thin widely spreading crown of at- tractive fine foliage. Outer bark is gray or dark brown, with lines of growth, and inner bark light and dark brown streaked, soft, and bitter. The brown twigs are minutely hairy. The alternate leaves 6-9 inches long have a light brown, finely hairy axis bearing 1 oval reddish gland near base and usually 2 near apex. There are about 20-35 pairs of lateral branches (pinnae) , each with about 30-100 pairs of stalkless, narrow* (linear), slightly hairy leaflets, which are short- pointed at apex and oblique at base, green above and paler beneath. Thus, each leaf has at least a few thousand leaflets. The flower clusters (heads) are lateral, several together on slender hairy stalks ty—l inch long and bearing numerous stalkless flowers. Each flower is more than 1/4 long when the stamens are fully expanded. The bell-shaped 5-toothed calyx is yie inch long and minutely hairy; the white corolla Vg inch long, with tube and 5 short lobes, finely hairy on outside; 10 stamens more than !/4 Piptadenia peregrina (L.) Benth. inch long; and the pistil has a 1-celled ovary with slender style about 14 inch long. The pods have raised edges and split into 2 parts. There are several rounded, very thin, flat seeds nearly y2 inch in diameter. Flowering from March to June. Pods present most of the year. The sapwood is whitish to light brown, and the heartwood dark brown or reddish brown. The wood is extremely hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.8), strong and durable, but difficult to work. Used chiefly for posts in Puerto Rico. The thick bark is rich in tannin and has been employed in tanneries of Venezuela. A narcotic snuff called "cojoba" was prepared from the finely ground seeds by the Indians of Hispaniola and Venezuela and adjacent parts of Brazil. It was used in religious ceremonies. Re- cently this narcotic has been studied chemically and tested for possible medicinal applications. In woodlands and hillsides in the coastal and lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. PrrsLic forests. — Cambalache, Maricao. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Dominica, St. Vincent, Grenada, and Trinidad (doubtfully native). Reported from Jamaica, apparently in error. Also Venezuela, British Guiana, and Brazil. Other common names. — cojobillo, cojoba, co- jobo (Puerto Rico) ; cojoba (Dominican Repub- lic) ; yopo (Colombia) ; cojoba, niopa, niopo, yopo, curuba (Venezuela); savannah yoke, cohoba (Trinidad) ; bois galle, bois l'ecorce, ceuf de poule (Haiti) ; parica (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Niopa peregrina (L.) Britton & Rose. 158 66. Cojobana Two-thirds natural size. Pil>tadoiin peregrina (L. ) Benth. 159 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 67. Cojoba This handsome tree with shiny, dark green, feathery foliage is further characterized by: (1) twice pinnate leaves (bipinnate) with numerous small narrow leaflets about % inch long and less than y8 inch wide; (2) the many flowers in a whitish ball more than 1 inch in diameter across the stamens; and (3) the conspicuous red pods 214-6 inches long and % inch in diameter, curved or coiled, splitting open, twisting, and exposing the several black elliptic seeds that hang on short threads. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree attain- ing 30-50 feet in height and 1 foot in trunk diam- eter. The bark is gray and smoothish. Inner hark is whitish and bitter. The brown twigs are finely brown hairy wThen young. The leaves are alternate, 5-12 inches long, with greenish axes minutely brown hairy. The main axis has <S-1(> pairs of lateral branches (pinnae), with a dot gland at base of each pair, each branch bearing 20-40 pairs of stalkless leaflets. Leaf- lets are oblong or lance-shaped, short-pointed, oblique at base, thin, hairless, paler beneath. There are 1-3 flower clusters (heads) at base of a leaf or at a node back of leaves, on stalks 11/2-3 inches long, containing numerous stalkless (lowers. The bell-shaped 5-toothed calyx is about !/s inch long; the tubular whitish corolla nearly % inch long, including the 5 lobes; the many, very slender, whitish stamens are about % inch long, united into a tube below; and the pistil has a finely hairy 1-celled ovary with slender style. The pods are borne singly or sometimes paired. They are slightly roughened, minutely hairy, and narrowed between the seeds. The elliptic seeds change from shiny to dull black in color. Flower- Pithecellobium arboreum (L.) Urban ing in spring, the. pods maturing in summer, and flowering and fruiting again in autumn. The sapwood is whitish and hard. Heartwood is dark red or reddish brown, sometimes figured or with darker streaks, resembling mahogany. The wood is heavy (specific gravity 0.7), strong, durable, and takes a fine polish. An excellent timber suited for heavy and interior construction, cabinetwork, furniture, posts, and erossties. Re- portedly employed at one time for bobbins in cot- ton mills. As an attractive ornamental and shade tree with commercial wood, this tree is worthy of more ex- tensive cultivation. Also a honey plant. Chiefly along streams and at the base of cliffs in the moist limestone region and ascending into the lower Cordillera region in western Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Mari- cao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Vega. Range. — Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puer- to Rico. Also in southern Mexico and Central America to Costa Rica. Other common names. — eojobana, cojobanilla, cajoba, tamarandillo (Puerto Rico) ; abey, abey hembra (Dominican Republic) ; moruro, moruro rojo, moruro prieto, sabicii, sabicii moruro ( Cuba) ; plumillo (Guatemala) ; barba de jolote (Hon- duras) ; agiiijote (El Salvador) ; tamarindo (Costa Rica); wild tamarind, chabark (Jamaica); wild tamarind, black tamarind, red tamarind, zopilote, barba jolote (British Honduras); collier, poison lasinette (Haiti). Botanical synonyms. — Cojoba arborea (L.) Britton & Rose, Samanea arborea (L.) Ricker. The generic name has been spelled also Pithecolobium. 160 i#i 67. Cojoba Natural size. PithecelloMum arborcum (L. ) Urban 161 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 68. Guama americano, guamuchil This introduced tree planted for shade and ornament along highways and streets and around houses is distinguished by: (1) usually a pair of slender sharp spines (stipules) Vi6-% in°h long at base of each leaf or sometimes spineless; (2) twice pinnate leaves (bipinnate) with 2 lateral axes, each with 2 nearly stalkless oblong or ovate leaflets; (3) small creamy white flowers in many small ball-like heads % inch across in slender drooping terminal or lateral axes; and (4) curved or coiled pink to brown pods 4—5 inches long, nar- rowed between the seeds, and splitting open on both sides to loosen several shiny black seeds mostly covered by pink or whitish pulp, which is edible. A small to medium-sized tree 30-50 feet in height and 1-2 feet in trunk diameter, or shrubby, with trunk and branches often crooked, and broad spreading crown. Nearly evergreen but shedding the old leaves as new ones appear. The bark is light gray, smoothish, becoming slightly rough and furrowed. The thick inner bark is light brown and bitter or astringent. Twigs are slender and drooping, greenish and slightly hairy when young, becoming gray, covered with many small whitish dots (lenticels). The alternate leaves have a very slender green petiole y±-\y-2 inches long with minute round gland near apex and the 2 lateral axes (pinnae) only Vr-Va: inch long. The 4 thin or slightly thickened leaflets are V2~2 inches long and %e_% incn wide, rounded at apex, the oblique base rounded or short-pointed, not toothed on edges, hairy or hair- less, dull pale green above and light green beneath. Xew growth is pink or reddish. The flower clusters (heads) are short-stalked, each covered with whitish hairs and composed of about 20-30 densely hairy flowers. The flower has a tubular hairy 5-toothed calyx about %6 inch long, a funnel-shaped tubular hairy 5-toothed corolla about Vs hich long, about 50 spreading long threadlike stamens united into a short tube at base, and pistil with hairy ovary and threadlike style. The pod is %-% inch wide, slightly flattened, and inconspicuously hairy. The flattened seeds (4,000 to a pound) are about % inch long and hang down inside the pulpy mass (aril) as much as % inch long. Recorded as flowering from Jan- uary to May and in fruit from February to July. Sapwood is yellowish, and heart wood yellowish or reddish brown. The wood is moderately soft, Pithcellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth.* heavy, strong, and durable. It takes a high polish but is brittle and not easily worked. In Puerto Rico the wood is used only for posts and fuel, but elsewhere it is employed for general construction. The bark, which contains about 25 percent tannin, is harvested in Mexico. It also yields a yellow dye and is an ingredient in home remedies. A mucilage can be made by dissolving in water the transparent deep reddish-brown gum which exudes from the trunk. This attractive species makes a good highway and street tree, especially in dry areas, growing rapidly and enduring drought, heat, and shade. It withstands close browsing and pruning and is suitable for fences and hedges also. Formerly it was a popular street tree in southern Florida, where it was susceptible to hurricane damage and did not recover well. The thick, pink, sweetish acid pulp around the seeds can be eaten or prepared into a drink like lemonade. Livestock and wild animals browse on the pods under the trees. Also a honey plant. Along roads and in towns throughout Puerto Rico. Introduced also into St. Croix. Range. — Mexico (Lower California, Sonora, and Chihuahua southward) through Central America to Colombia and Venezuela. Introduced in southern Florida, Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and St. Croix. Widely planted and naturalized in tropical regions, including the Old World. Other common names. — guamuche (Mexico, commerce) ; inga dulce (Cuba) ; guamuchil (Mex- ico) ; jaguay, shahuay, madre de flecha (Guate- mala) ; mongollano, guachimol, espino, guayacan bianco (El Salvador) ; mochigiiiste (Costa Rica) ; gallinero, chininango, tiraco, chancan (Colombia) ; yaeure, guamo bianco, guamacho (Venezuela) ; blackhead, apes-earring (United States) ; guamu- chil, Manila-tamarind, Madras-thorn (English) ; bread- and-cheese (British Guiana). This species was named and described botan- ically in 1795 from Coromandel, India, where it had been introduced. The specific name, meaning sweet, doubtless refers to the edible seed pulp. A related native shrub or small tree of coastal thickets is una de gato or catclaw blackbead (Pithecellobium unguis-cati (L.) Benth.), known also as rolon, escambron Colorado, and catclaw. This species with yellowish or pinkish flowers is native from southern Florida to northern South America. 162 68. Guama amerieano, guamuchil Natural size. Pithcellobium dulce (Roxb. ) Benth. 163 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MIMOSACEAE) 69. Saman, raintree This well-known beautiful shade tree reaches large size both in trunk diameter and in a very broad arched crown. It is further identified by: (1) twice pinnate leaves (bipinnate) with many nearly diamond-shaped leaflets Y4-W2 inches long and %-3/4 inch broad, the sides unequal, the outer leaflets considerably larger than the others, and the pairs of leaflets folding together at night and on cloudy days; (2) delicate flower heads 21/2 inches across and IV2 inches high, a mass of nu- merous threadlike stamens pink in outer half and white in inner half; and (3) flattened brown or blackish pods 4-8 inches long, about %-% inch wide, and V4 inch thick, straight or a little curved, with sweetish pulp, late in splitting open. An evergreen tree attaining 50-65 feet in height, with a relatively short stout trunk up to 4 feet in diameter. Crown of long, stout, horizontal branches is broader than tall, becoming 100 feet or more across. The gray bark is rough, furrowed into long thin plates or corky ridges. Inner bark is pink or light brown, bitter. The stout greenish twigs are minutely hairy. The alternate leaves are about 10-16 inches long. The axis and 2-6 pairs of branches (pinnae) are green and finely hairy with swelling at base of each and a gland dot on axis where branches join. Each branch (pinna) bears 6-16 paired stalkless leaflets with a gland dot between each pair. Branches toward apex are longer and with more leaflets. Leaflet blades are blunt and with a minute point at apex, short-pointed at base, the edges not toothed, slightly thickened, the upper surface shiny green and with veins raised a little, and the lower surface paler and finely hairy. Several flower clusters (heads or umbels) are lateral near end of a twig, each on a green hairy stalk 2V2-4 inches long and composed of many narrow tubular flowers, pinkish, tinged with green, short-stalked. The narrow green calyx is tubular, about 14 inch long, 5-toothed, and finely hairy; the narrow pink and greenish-tinged corolla %-!/2 inch long is also tubular, 5-lobed, and finely hairy ; the many stamens united in tube near base have spreading, very long, threadlike filaments about IV2 inches long and dotlike anthers, soon wilting and shriveling ; and the pistil consisting of 1-celled light green ovary %(i inch long and a threadlike pinkish style 1-1 Vi inches long. The hard seed pods have a raised border. They contain several oblong reddish-brown seeds about y1(; inch long (about 2,500 to a pound). Flower- ing from spring to fall, fruiting from fall to winter. The sapwood is thin and yellowish, and the heart wood dark chocolate brown when freshly cut, becoming attractive light to golden brown with Pithecellobium saman (Jacq.) Benth.* darker streaks. The wood is soft, lightweight (specific gravity 0.44), of medium to coarse tex- ture, and fairly strong. It is durable to very du- rable in respect to decay and resistant to dry-wood termites. It takes a beautiful finish but is often cross-grained and difficult to work. The rate of air-seasoning is moderate, and amount of degrade is considerable. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing, mortising, sanding, and resist- ance to screw splitting are good ; shaping and bor- ing are fair ; and turning is poor. Elsewhere the wood has been employed occa- sionally for furniture, interior trim, and general construction. It is suitable also for boxes and crates, veneer, plywood, and paneling. In Central America cross sections of thick trunks have served as wheels of ox carts. The trees in Puerto Rico are valued mainly for shade and beauty. The nutritious pods are rel- ished by cattle, hogs, and goats and have a flavor like licorice, which some persons like. A honey plant. In a few countries saman has been em- ployed as shade in plantations of coffee and cacao, though less at present than formerly. Because of their enormous growth the trees compete heavily for water and soil nutrients, injuring the shrubs. Easily propagated from seed and cuttings and of rapid growth. Cattle disseminate the seeds in pastures. A famous giant in Trinidad more than 100 years old was measured as 8 feet in trunk di- ameter, 147 feet high, and 187 feet in spread. Sometimes trees become topheavy and dangerous along highways and near houses. The many sur- face roots may also be objectionable. Perhaps bet- ter suited to dry rather than moist localities, being of smaller size in arid places. Cultivated along highways and streets and planted and naturalized as a pasture shade tree in both the moist and dry coastal regions and in the lower Cordillera region of Puerto Rico. Also in St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native from Mexico (Yucatan Pen- insula) and Guatemala to Peru, Bolivia, and Bra- zil. Widely planted and naturalized elsewhere in continental tropical America from Mexico south- ward, throughout the West Indies (except Ba- hamas), and in Old World tropics. Grown also in southern Florida. Other common names. — dormilon, guango (Puerto Rico) ; licorice, giant tibet (Virgin Is- lands) ; saman (Spanish) ; algarrobo, algarrobo del pais (Cuba) ; algarrobo (Mexico, Guatemala) ; cenicero (Guatemala, El Savador, Costa Rica) ; carreto, zorra (El Salvador) ; samaguare, cam- paiio, genizaro (Colombia) ; lara, urero, carabali (Venezuela) ; huacamayo-chico (Peru) ; raintree, saman (English) ; guango (Jamaica) ; cow-tama- 164 69. Sanian, raintree Two-thirds natural size Pithecellobium soman (Jacq. ) Benth. 165 rind (Grenadines, Trinidad) ; French tamarind, guango (British Guiana) ; monkey pod (Hawaii) ; art) re a pluie (French) ; gouannegoul (Haiti) ; samana (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonyms. — Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merrill, Enterolobium saman (Jacq.) Prain. The Spanish word "saman" and the specific name are from the South American aboriginal name. Several origins of the English word raintree and its French equivalent have been given. Early travelers reported that the trees mysteriously pro- duced rain at night and would not sleep under- neath. Others observed the grass to be greener beneath the trees during droughts. Another ex- planation was that the rain was excreta of cicada insects inhabiting the trees. More plausible is that the leaflets close up at night and in cloudy and rainy weather, indicating the approach of rain and also letting rain fall through the crown to the grass beneath. The Spanish name dormilon re- fers also to the movements of the leaflets suggest- ing sleep at night. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) MIMOSA SUBFAMILY (MIMOSOIDEAE; MTMOSACEAE) 70. Bayahonda, mesquite A small flat-topped spiny tree or shrub of dry areas recognized by: (1) slightly zigzag green to brown twigs with paired stout brown or gray spines at the enlarged nodes; (2) leaves twice pin- nate (bipinnate) with 1 or sometimes 2 pairs of lateral axes (pinnae), each with 12-25 pairs of al- most stalkless narrow leaflets V4-% mcn l°ng; (3) many small pale yellow flowers about %6 inch long, crowded and almost stalkless in narrow drooping clusters 2-4 inches long; and (4) light yellowish-brown, flattened but thick pods 4-9 inches long and %6~V2 mcn wide, and not splitting <)|>t •!. Deciduous, 20-30 feet high, with a short crooked trunk to 1% feet in diameter, and with broad crown of very thin spreading foliage. The gray or brown bark is rough and furrowed, thick and becoming slightly shaggy, the inner bark yellow- ish, fibrous, and slightly bitter. The spines (stip- ules) are Vi-! bach or more in length. The leaves, mostly borne on very short twigs along larger ones, often are crowded though actu- ally alternate. They are 3-6 inches long, with slender green leaf axes. Blades are narrow (lin- ear-oblong), Vie-1;^ m°b wide, rounded at both ends or minutely pointed at apex, slightly oblique at base, thin, and dull blue green on both sides. Flower clusters (spikes) are lateral, often on twigs back of leaves. Flower buds are yellow green. The greenish-yellow tubular calyx is less than y1G inch long, bell-shaped, and 5-toothed; there are 5 narrow greenish-yellow petals Vs int'h long, hairy on inside; 10 spreading yellow-orange stamens with brown anthers, less than %6 inch long; and pistil %6 inch long with hairy light green ovary and slender whitish curved style. The pods are about %6 inch thick and slightly curved or straight. The brown seeds 14 inch long are imbedded in a whitish slightly sweet pulp, which can be eaten. Flowering and fruiting through much of the year, chiefly in the summer and fall. The thin sapwood is light yellow, and the heart- wood yellowish to dark brown. The wood is mod- Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC* erately hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.8), tough and strong, easy to work, resistant to decay, and durable in the ground but susceptible to attack by drywood termites. Used in Puerto Rico only for fenceposts and crossties. Elsewhere the wood has served for vehicle parts, rural carpentry, furniture, and formerly even paving blocks. It is a superior fuel and makes charcoal of high quality. An amber gum resembling gum arable exudes from the trunk and, when dissolved in water, becomes a mucilage. The bark has been employed in tanning. The nutritious pods are browsed by livestock and eaten by children. Cattle are partly responsi- ble for the extensive invasion of pastures by this tree. Indians of Mexico and southwestern United States ground the pods into meal as a staple food for baking and for mixing with water as a bever- age. This is an important honey plant, and bees commonly are seen around the flowers, which are not fragrant. Naturalized in thickets and dry forests in the dry limestone and dry coastal regions of southern Puerto Rico, commonly invading pastures. Oc- casionally planted for ornament. Also in Mona, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola. Public forests. — Aguirre, Guanica, Susiia. Municipalities where especially common. — 12, 38. Range. — Including its geographic varieties na- tive from southwestern United States (Texas to Kansas, Utah, and California) south through Mexico and Central America to Colombia and Venezuela and perhaps naturalized southward. Through West Indies, apparently introduced and naturalized, from Bahamas and Cuba to Bar- bados and Trinidad and in Bonaire, Curacao, and Aruba. Also naturalized in Hawaii and Old World tropics. This species seems to be very much at home in Puerto Rico and other islands of the West Indies even though not native. The locality of the bo- tanical type specimen is Jamaica, though an 166 70. Bayahonda, niesquite 687-921 O— 64i 12 Two-thirds natural size. Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC. 167 authority on the flora of Jamaica wrote 2 centuries ago that this species was introduced therefrom the continent. Otiikr common names. — aroma americana (Puerto Rico) ; algarrobo (Virgin Islands) ; baya- honda (Dominican Republic) ; mesquite, guata- pana, cambron, algarrobo del Brasil (Cuba) ; mezquite, catzimec, algarrobo (Mexico) ; nacascol (Guatemala) ; algarrobo (Honduras) ; carbon (El Salvador) ; acacia de Catarina (Nicaragua) ; aromo, manca-caballo (Panama) ; trupillo, manca- caballo (Colombia) ; cuji yaque, cuji negro, cuji carora, cuji, yaque (Venezuela) ; mesquite (United States, Bahamas) ; cashaw (Jamaica) ; mesquit- tree (Trinidad) ; bayahon, bayarone (Haiti) ; indju, qui, cuida, kuigi (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonyms. — N el turn a jul/ftora ( Sw. ) Raf ., Prosopis chUensis auth., not P. chilen- s/s (Mol.) Stuntz. The last is a closely related species of Chile and Argentina to Peru. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) Key to the 10 species illustrated (Nos. 71-80) A. Leaves simple or of 2 leaflets. B. Leaves simple, with 2 rounded lobes at apex — 71. Bauhinia monandra.* BB. Leaves of 2 leaflets, paired, long- or short-pointed at apex — 76. Hymenaea courbaril. AA. Leaves compound, of several to many leaflets. O. Leaves once pinnate. D. Leaflets mostly more than 2 inches long, ovate and broadest toward base. E. Leaflets with short, green stalks %-% inch long, without black dots — 72. Cassia fistula* EE. Leaflets with very short, red stalks Vi6 incn long, with scattered raised black dots on lowrer surface — 7!). Stah lia monosperma. DD. Leaflets less than 2 inches long, mostly oblong, with edges nearly parallel. F. Leaflets symmetrical. G. Leaflets short-pointed or rounded at apex — 73. Cassia javanica.* GG. Leaflets rounded with bristle-tip at apex — 74. Cassia siamea.* FF. Leaflets oblique at base and slightly asymmetrical— 80. Tamarindus indica.* CC. Leaves bipinnate. H. Leaves consisting of a spine and 1 or 2 pairs of drooping yellow -green strips (lateral axes) % inch broad bearing numerous small leaflets %-%6 inch long, which shed early — 77. Parkinsonia aculeata* HH. Leaves regularly branched, not spiny, with 10-30 pairs of lateral axes (pinnae), each with numerous leaflets and featherlike. I. Leaflets less than % inch long; young twigs and leaf axes greenish, finely hairy — 75. Delonix regia.* II. Leaflets Vo-% inch long ; young twigs and leaf axes with dense coat of reddish-brown hairs — 78. Peltophorum inerme.* 71. Mariposa, butterfly bauhinia This cultivated ornamental small tree is easily recognized by: (1) the odd, somewhat rounded leaves divided about V3 their length into 2 rounded lobes slightly suggesting a cow's hoof and with 13 or 11 radiating main veins from the heart-shaped base; (2) the very large and showy flowers 21,4-3 indies across, with 5 slender-stalked, narrow, spoon-shaped pink petals dotted with red (1 petal mostly red) ; and (3) the flat pods about 8 inches long, 1 inch broad, and i/8 m°h thick, with a long narrow point at apex, twisting as they split open. A small evergreen tree or sometimes a shrub growing 10-30 feet high and to 1 foot in trunk diameter. The branches are widely spreading. Bark of small trunks is smooth with dots (lenti- cels) and whitish gray. Inner bark is whitish and tasteless. Young twigs are finely hairy. The alternate leaves have long hairy petioles 1-2 inches long. Leaf blades are mostly 2^4 inches long and 2-41/2 inches broad or sometimes larger, with the edges not toothed and a short bristle % inch long between the 2 lobes, very thin, the upper surface light green and hairless, and the lower sur- face pale gray green and finely hairy. Flower clusters (racemes) are terminal and un- branched, with few male and bisexual flowers on Bauhinia monandra Kurz* green hairy stalks about V2 mcn l°ng (polyga- mous). The very narrow, tubular, stalklike, mi- nutely hairy basal tube (hypanthium) is 1-11/4 inches long and only i/8 inch broad; the calyx is 34-I inch long, pointed in bud, finely hairy, split- ting along 1 side as the flower opens; the 5 un- equal petals are 11/2-2 inches long; only 1 slender stamen iy2 inches long and sterile stamens (stam- i nodes) reduced to scales about 14 inch long; and the very slender pistil with stalk about 1 inch long adhering to tube and 1% inches long beyond, with a hairy 1-celled ovary and long curved style; in male flowers the pistil is rudimentary. The pods split open with force, twisting into 2 parts and scattering the many seeds. The shiny black seeds are elliptic, flat, and % inch long. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The sapwood is whitish and hard, and the heart- wood recorded as brown. Wood used only for fuel in Puerto Rico. One use reported in Jamaica is as a roadside fence plant : after pollarding, the long pliable branches are arranged into the frame- work of a fence. Planted in Puerto Rico for the large ornamen- tal flowers suggestive of orchids or butterflies and the odd-shaped leaves. Escaped from cultivation 168 '>><•>- i ■• x \b z±j' ri 71. Mariposa, butterfly bauhinia Natural size. Bauhinia monandra Kurz 169 and naturalized in roadsides, thickets, and river banks in the coastal, limestone, and lower moun- tain regions. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thonia>, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native of southeastern Asia, originally described from Burma. Planted and escaped or naturalized throughout the West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Barbados and Trinidad. Culti- vated in southern Florida. Also introduced in northern South America from French Guiana to Colombia, in El Salvador, and perhaps elsewhere. Other common names. — flamboyan bianco, se- plina, varital variable, alas de angel, baujinia (Puerto Rico) ; Napoleon's plume, poor man's orchid, bauhinia (Virgin Islands) ; flamboyan ex- tranjero, flamboyan cubano, pata de vaca (Do- minican Republic) ; casco de mulo, pata de vaca (Cuba) ; urape (Venezuela) ; butterfly bauhinia, butterfly-flower, pink bauhinia, pink orchidtree (United States) ; Jerusalem-date, butterfly-flower (Jamaica) : deux jumelles, earaetere des homines (Haiti) ; vlinderbloem (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonyms. — Bauhinia kappleri Sagot, Caspareopsis monandm (Kurz) Britton & Rose. The specific name refers to the odd single stamen which, however, is not restricted to this species. The 2-lobed leaf characteristic of the genus cor- responds to a leaf with 1 pair of leaflets partly united. A few related species of shrubs or small trees have been introduced as ornamentals. Palo de orquideas, poor man's orchid, or Buddhist bau- hinia {Bauhinia variegata L.*; synonym Phanera variegata (L.) Benth.), has large variegated or- chidlike flowers with 5 stamens and the leaves di- vided to the middle into 2 lobes. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 72. Canafistula, golden-shower This familiar planted tree occasionally escaping from cultivation is identified by : (1) the large even pinnate leaves 12-16 inches long, with 8-16 paired, large, very thin, ovate leaflets 3-6 inches long and l%-2% inches broad; (2) long drooping clusters of long-stalked, beautiful, golden yellow flowers 2 inches across the 5 widely spreading petals; and (3) very long cylindrical blackish pods 15-24 inches long and about % inch in diameter. A medium-sized deciduous tree reported to be- come 50 feet tall and iy2 feet in trunk diameter, usually much smaller, with straight axis, horizon- tal and spreading branches, and an open crown of thin foliage. The bark is smooth and gray, becom- ing scaly and reddish brown. The dark green twigs are minutely hairy. The- alternate leaves are composed of 8-16 leaf- lets with short stalks V8_1/4 incn l°n^ loosely ar- ranged along the slender, finely hairy, green axis. Leaflet blades are short -pointed at both ends, not toothed on edges, green and hairless on upper sur- face, and paler and minutely hairy beneath. The flower clusters (racemes), terminal and un- branched, 8-24 inches or more in length, bear sev- eral to many lax, slightly fragrant flowers on very slender, nearly horizontal, green stalks 1*4-2 inches long. There are 5 yellow-green finely hairy sepals y16 inch long; 5 stalked nearly equal, bright yellow petals 1—1 V^ incn l°ng, elliptic and with veins; 10 stamens, 3 of which have very long fila- ments, soon falling; and slender, curved, minutely hairy, green pistil iy2 inch long with stalked, slender, 1 -celled ovary and style. The pods, which hang downward, do not split open but have many cross walls, each containing a single seed embedded in dark brown sweetish Cassia fistula L.* pulp. The seeds are shiny, light brown, and flat- tened. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The reddish wood is very hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.9), strong, and durable. Suited as a construction wood and used also for cabinet, and inlay work, farm implements, and posts. In Puerto Rico the trees are valued principally as ornamentals for the showy golden flowers. However, the trees are very susceptible to attack by scale insects. The drug cassia fistula, a mild laxative, is ob- tained from the sweetish pulp of the seed pods, which are sold in local markets for this purpose. The medicinal properties were known even by the ancient Egyptians. Flowers, seeds, and bark have been employed also in medicine, and the bark in tanning. Along highways and streets and around houses chiefly in the moist and dry coastal regions of Puerto Rico. Sometimes escaping and naturalized. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Range. — Native of tropical Asia. Widely cul- tivated and locally naturalized in the tropics in- cluding West Indies and continental tropical America. However, in many places it is less com- mon than related species known by the same com- mon names. Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Lesser Antilles, and Trin- idad. A common ornamental in southern Florida and planted also in Bermuda. Other common names. — canafistula, cafiaf istola (Spanish) ; golden-shower, golden-shower senna, shower-of-gold, Indian laburnum, pudding-pipe- 170 72. Cauafistula. golden-shower Two-thirds natural size. Cassia fistula L. 171 tree (United States, English) ; cassia-stick-tree (Jamaica) ; Indian laburnum, purging cassia (Trinidad) ; casse (Haiti) ; canefice, caneficier, casse-habitant ( Guadeloupe ) . Canafistula cimarrona or pinkshower cassia (Cassia grandis L. f.) is a related tree species of southwestern Puerto Rico and elsewhere planted and locally naturalized. It has reddish or pur- plish flowers and leaves less than 12 inches long with 14— 10 oblong leaflets usually less than 2 inches long. Several native species of this genus are shrubs or herbs. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 73. Casia rosada, pink cassia This cultivated ornamental and shade tree dif- fers from related species, such as canafistula, in having a spreading arched crown and clusters of beautiful large fragrant flowers, bright pink in- stead of yellow. The leaves are even pinnate, mostly 8-15 inches long, with usually 16-20 (some- times as few as 10 or up to 30) paired oblong leaf- lets 11/^-2 14 inches long and %-l inch broad. The very long, slender, cylindrical, dark brown pods are 16-20 inches long and % inch in diameter and do not split open. A medium-sized, generally deciduous, tree 40 feet or more in height and 1 foot or more in trunk diameter, the trunk occasionally with a few stout, dark gray, spine-tipped branches 2-4 inches long, and with widespread crown of thin foliage. The gray bark is smoothish and thin, with many thin fissures. Inner bark is light brown and slightly bitter. The long slightly drooping twigs are green and minutely hairy. The leaves are alternate, commonly spreading in 2 rows. The leaflets are regularly arranged on short stalks Y1(i inch long, nearly equal in size, mostly in pairs along the slender, green, finely hairy axis. Leaflet blades are short-pointed or rounded at apex, and thin minutely and inconspic- uously hairy on both sides, dull green above and gray green beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) are lateral, 5-9 inches long and broad, containing many large rose- scented flowers about 2 inches across, each on a long, slender, dark red, finely hairy stalk I-IV2 indies long and slightly curved upward. There are 5 concave, pointed, dark red, finely hairy sepals Cassia javanica L.* 14 inch long, greenish tinged inside; 5 spreading oblong pink petals 1-1 Vi inches long, short-stalked at base and rounded at apex, minutely hairy, with reddish veins but the color of petals fading to whitish with age; 10 yellow stamens, 3 about IV2 inches long and with a swelling beyond middle, and 7 about y2 inch long; and 1 slender, curved, reddish pistil IV4 inches long, consisting of stalk, narrow 1-celled ovary, style, and stigma. The pods, which hang downward, contain nu- merous rounded and flattened shiny brown seeds t/4 inch in diameter, each in a separate disklike pulpy compartment, 1,600 to a pound. Flowering mainly from May to July and occasionally through the summer and fall. The soft wood with whitish sapwood is not gen- erally used in Puerto Rico. A fast-growing tree of relatively recent intro- duction to Puerto Rico but increasing in popu- larity and certain to become commoner. Planted along streets and in yards, chiefly in the larger cities of Puerto Rico. Also in Virgin Islands. Range. — Native from eastern Himalayas of India to Malaya. Planted for ornament in vari- ous tropical regions. Introduced in southern Florida. Other common names. — acacia rosada (Puerto Rico) ; nodding cassia (Virgin Islands) ; pink cassia, apple-blossom cassia, apple-blossom senna, pink-and-white shower, Javanese cassia, joint- wood, jointwood senna (English). Botanical synonym. — Cassia nodosa Hamilt. 172 73. Casia rosada. pink cassia Two-thirds natural size. Cassia javanica L. 173 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 74. Casia de Siam, Siamese cassia This introduced tree commonly planted along highways and in windbreaks is characterized by : (1) a generally erect crown, not spreading like most similar species; (2) even pinnate leaves 9-13 inches long, with 12-22 paired oblong or lance- shaped leaflets rounded at both ends and slightly shiny green above; (3) the erect large terminal clusters of numerous bright yellow flowers l1^ inches across the 5 rounded petals; and (4) the many long, narrow, flat, dark brown pods which split open to release the seeds. A medium-sized evergreen tree to 60 feet in height and 1 foot in trunk diameter or sometimes larger, with straight axis. The bark is gray or light brown, smoothish but becoming slightly fis- sured. Inner bark is light brown, gritty and taste- less. The twigs are greenish and minutely hairy when young, turning brown. The alternate leaves bear leaflets in pairs along the slender, grooved, green and reddish-tinged axis on short stalks i/8 inch long. The leaflet blades are almost all the same size, V/4-B inches long and !<£-% mcn broad, with a tiny bristle tip, the edges without teeth, thin, the upper surface almost hair- less, and the lower surface gray green with minute hairs. Flower clusters (panicles) are branched, 8-12 inches long and 5 inches broad, with many, almost regular flowers on straight, yellow-green, finely hairy stalks l-l1/^ inches long. There are 5 con- cave, pointed, greenish-yellow, finely hairy sepals 5/lfi inch long; 5 spreading, nearly equal, yellow petals %-3/4 inch long, short-stalked; 7 stamens of different lengths and 3 smaller sterile stamens; and a pistil with pale green, minutely hairy, 1-celled ovary and curved style. The pods, so numerous that they sometimes give an untidy appearance to the tree, are 6-10 inches long, about y2 inch broad, and y16 inch thick, stiff, and often slightly curved. They split up the sides into 2 parts, releasing the many flat, shiny, dark brown seeds 5/16 inch long and 16,000 to a pound. In flower and fruit throughout the year. The sapwood is light brown and moderately hard. The heartwood is dark brown and streaked and hard. The wood, which is very susceptible to Cassia siamea Lam.* attack by dry-wood termites, is used locally as a good fuel and for posts. Elsewhere employed for construction, furniture, turnery, and similar pur- poses. Tannin has been extracted from the bark. In Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands the principal uses of the trees are for ornament, shade, and windbreaks. They form good windbreaks be- cause they retain a deep closed crown. This species is a relatively recent introduction in Puerto Rico but now widespread as a result of distribu- tion of quantities of seedlings by the government. It was brought to Jamaica before 1837 and in Guadeloupe has been planted as shade for coffee and cacao. The trees are propagated by seeds, grow very rapidly in full sunlight, and are suitable for fuel within a few years. However, they are very susceptible to attack by scale insects. The seeds, pods, and foliage are toxic to hogs and cause death quickly after being eaten. As hogs relish the poisonous leaves, farmers in Puerto Rico have suffered losses. Trees blown over or broken by storms increase the danger. Thus, swine and perhaps other livestock should be kept away from these trees. Commonly planted along highways and streets and in parks and yards in both the moist and dry coastal regions, the moist limestone region, and in the lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also common, especially in windbreaks, in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Range. — Native of East Indies, Malaya, India, and Ceylon but spread by cultivation. First de- scribed from Siam, as the common and scientific names indicate. Widely planted through West Indies in Greater Antilles and many of Lesser Antilles to Trinidad and escaped and naturalized locally. Less common in southern Florida and from Guatemala to northern South America. Other common names. — casia amarilla, casia, casia siamea (Puerto Rico) ; yellow cassia (Virgin Islands) ; flambollan amarillo (Dominican Re- public) ; casia siamea (Cuba) ; Siamese senna, Siamese shower, kassod-tree (United States); Siamese cassia, kassod-tree, Bombay blackwood (English) ; casse de Siam (Guadeloupe). Botanical s y n o n y m. — Sciacassia siamea (Lam.) Brit ton. 174 74. Casia de Siam, Siamese eassi Two-thirds natural size Cassia siamea Lam. 175 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 75. Flamboyan, flamboyant-tree Flamboyan, the widely spreading tree which forms arches of shade along Puerto Rico's high- ways and which is covered with brilliant masses of large orange-red flowers mostly fi-om May to July or August, is known to all, visitors and residents alike. Even when the flame-colored blossoms are absent, the feathery foliage and the giant, flat, blackish or dark brown pods resembling machetes make identification easy. This small to medium-sized deciduous tree he- roines 20-50 feet high and 2 feet in trunk diam- eter, large trunks buttressed and angled toward base. The gray-brown bark is smoothish, some- times slightly cracked, and with many dots (lenti- cels). Inner bark is light brown and tasteless. Long, nearly horizontal branches form a broad flat-topped crown of thin foliage wider than the tree's height. The stout twigs are greenish and finely hairy when young, becoming brown. The alternate leaves are 8-20 inches long and twice pinnate (bipinnate) . Along the light green, slightly hairy axis are 10-25 pairs of slender feathery branches (pinnae) 2-;") inches long, each healing 12—10 pairs of very small oblong leaflets %6~% nicn l°ng and Vs inch wide. The numerous leaflets are stalkless, rounded at base and apex, not toothed, thin, very minutely hairy on both sides, green on upper surface and paler beneath. Several flower clusters (racemes) 6-10 inches long are borne laterally near the end of a twig, each with loosely arranged, slightly fragrant flowers. The flowers are 4-5 inches across, on slender stalks 2-3 inches long. Calyx consists of 5 pointed, finely hairy sepals about 1 inch long, green outside and reddish with yellow border with- in ; 5 unequal petals 2-2 V2 inches long and 3/4-lV4 inches wide, with a very long, slender, hairy stalk, broadly spoon-shaped, rounded but broader than long, slightly wavy-margined or crisp, widely ex- tended and bending backwards before falling; 4 petals are orange red or almost scarlet, while 1 which is longer and narrower than the others is whitish inside with red spots and streaks; the 10 stamens about 1% inches long are slender and red, hairy toward base; and the pistil has a hairy 1- celled ovary about y2 inch long and slender style about \\\ inches long. The pods are hard, 14-20 inches long, 2-214 inches wide, and 14 inch thick, finally splitting into 2 parts. There are many oblong mottled brown seeds about % inch long and 14 inch broad, about '.)()(> to the pound. The conspicuous pods Delonix regia (Bojer) Raf.* hang down and remain attached most of the year, even when the trees are leafless. The sapwood is light yellow, and the heartwood is yellowish brown to light brown. The wood is soft, heavy (specific gravity 0.8), coarse-grained, weak and brittle, and very susceptible to attack by dry -wood termites. The large pods as well as the wood are used for fuel. Widely planted along highways and streets and in parks and gardens of both moist and dry areas almost throughout Puerto Rico for the spectacular flowers and for the shade of the broad branches. Along highways the trees often are heavily pruned except for the leaning side forming the arch. Also a live fencepost. Sometimes escaping from culti- vation and becoming naturalized. Also in Mona, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Propagated easily from seed and of rapid growth. Since the wood is weak, trees are often broken by strong winds. A f ter the leaves are shed, the trees are less attractive with their conspicuous pods remaining on the bare branches and with the prominent tunnels and nests of the termites which commonly attack this species. A caterpillar, or de- foliating insect, occasionally attacks the trees and eliminates the leaves completely. Another objec- tionable feature is the surface root system which sometimes breaks sidewalks and walls. Because of these undesirable characteristics some authori- ties classify flamboyan among the trees which should not be planted. Range. — Native of Madagascar. One of the most extensively planted ornamental trees in tropi- cal and subtropical regions throughout the world and locally escaping or naturalized. Southern Florida including Florida Keys, southern Cali- fornia (planted), Bermuda, and throughout West Indies. Also from Mexico to Brazil. Other common names. — flamboyan rojo, flam- boyan Colorado (Puerto Rico) ; flamboyant, giant, giant-tree (Virgin Islands) ; flamboyan (Domini- can Republic, Colombia, Venezuela) ; framboyan, flamboyant (Cuba) ; arbol de fuego, tabuchin (Mexico) ; arbol del fuego, flor de fuego (Central America) ; acacia, framboyan, gaacamayo (Guate- mala) ; guacamaya, poinciana (Honduras) ; gua- camaya (El Salvador) ; clavellino, flor de pavo (Colombia); flamboyant, josefina (Venezuela); flamboyant-tree (British Guiana) ; flamboyant, royal poinciana, flame-tree (United States, Eng- lish) ; flamboyant (French) ; flamboyant, July- tree (Dutch West Indies) ; flamboyant (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Poinciana regia Bojer. 176 75. Flamboyan, flamboyant-tree Delonix regia (Bojer) Raf. Flower and bud, two-thirds natural size, leaf and fruit, one-third natural size. 177 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 76. Algarrobo, West-Indian-locust, courbaril Hymenaea courbaril L. This handsome large tree is characterized by: (1) compound leaves consisting of 2 almost stalk- less, very unequal-sided, oblong, shiny green leaf- lets 2-4 inches long and %-lV? inches broad, short - or long-pointed at apex and rounded at base, and slightly thickened or leathery; (2) the large spreading whitish flowers about lVt inches across, numerous in erect terminal clusters with stout brandies; and (3) the erect, large, oblong, rough, dark brown pods 2-4 inches long, about l^/o-l inches wide, more than 1 inch thick, with edible pulp. A usually evergreen spreading forest tree to 65 feet in height and 4 feet in diameter or larger, sometimes with buttresses. Bark is smoothish and gray, becoming 1 inch or more in thickness. Inner bark is light pinkish brown. The stout branches form a rounded, widely spreading crown. The twigs are stout, brown, and much fissured. The alternate leaves have a petiole Vl> inch long. Leaflet blades are shiny green to dark green on upper surface, dull yellow green and slightly brownish t inged on lower surface, not toothed on edges, hairless, and show many lighter gland dots when examined with a lens against the light. The flower clusters (panicles) are about 4—6 inches high and broad, and flattened. The bell- shaped, gray-green, finely hairy, thick basal tube (hypanthium) is % inch long and broad ; there are 5 slightly thickened, gray-green, hairy sepals 1/£-% inch long; the 5 thin white petals are elliptic, %-3/i inch long and a little unequal, covered with minute gland dots; the 10 stamens 1V4 inches long have white filaments and red anthers; and the pis- til consists of a stalk projecting beyond the tube, a flattened 1-celled ovary less than % inch long, and a very slender curved style 1 inch long. The pods are thick-walled, hard, contain pockets of gum, and do not open. There are few to several oblong, flattened, dark red seeds about 1 inch long imbedded in the thick pale yellow pulp. This sweet and mealy or powdery pulp is edible, though it has an unpleasant odor, and mixed with water forms a drink. The large seeds weigh about 120 to a pound. Flowering from early spring to fall, and pods remaining on the tree awhile after maturity. The thick sapwood is whitish to gray brown. Heartwood is dark or reddish brown, often with blackish streaks. The wood is very hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.7) , mostly medium textured and usually with interlocked grain. It is very strong, tough, durable, very resistant to attack by dry- wood termites, and slightly difficult to work. Rate of air-seasoning is moderate and amount of de- grade is considerable. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing is fair; turning is excel- lent ; shaping, boring, mortising, sanding, and re- sistance to screw splitting are good. An important American timber species produc- ing wood of good quality but of limited quantity in Puerto Rico. Here classed as for furniture and sometimes compared with mahogany. Also used in carpentry, general construction, and for wheels and cogs. Elsewhere employed in shipbuilding and for railway crossties, posts, looms, cartwheels, and balls. The wood should be attractive as ve- neer, plywTood, cabinetwork, interior trim, and turnery. The roots and trunk yield a pale yellow or red- dish resinlike gum known commercially as South American copal. The gum exudes and forms hard lumps which become buried in the soil at the base of a tree. Sometimes as much as a barrel of gum has been found around the roots of a large tree or at the site of a former tree. The gum is used main- ly iiv varnish but also for incense and local medi- cines. A honey plant. Indians made canoes from the smooth hard thick bark by stripping in one piece the bark of a large tree, sewing the ends together, waterproofing the seams with gum or resin, and inserting wooden crosspieces. The bark has been used in medicines also. Efforts to use this species for reforestation in Puerto Rico have shown it to be unadapted to de- graded sites and generally of slow growth. Shade is required at first if the trees are to produce straight trunks. Trees underplanted in a forest near Rio Piedras attained heights ranging up to 20 feet after 13 years. Plantings in the open, for shade and ornamental purposes, produce attractive spreading trees more rapidly. This makes a good roadside shade tree, but locations near houses should be avoided because of the malodorous fruits. Scattered in forests, pastures, and along road- sides in the moist and dry coastal and limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Lu- quillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua. Municipalities where especially common. — 25, 30, 32, 42, 59, 69. Range. — Throughout West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago. Also from central Mexico to Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and French Guiana. Rarely planted in southern Florida. Other common names. — West-Indian-locust, locust (Virgin Islands); algarrobo (Spanish); 178 76. Algarrobo, West-Indian-locust, courbaril Natural size. Hymenaea courbaril L. 179 courbaril (commerce, English) ; curbaril, caguai- ran, algarrobo de las Antillas (Cuba) ; guapinol, cuapinol, copinol (Mexico, Central America) ; guapinal, nazareno (Colombia) ; corobore (Vene- zuela) ; copal (Ecuador); courbaril (Peru); lo- cust (British West Indies, British Guiana) ; West-Indian-locust, stinking-toe (Jamaica); stinking-toe (Trinidad) ; locust, guapinol (British Honduras) ; courbaril, simiri, locust (British Guiana) ; courbaril (Guadeloupe, Martinque, French Guiana) ; locust (Dutch West Indies) ; rode locus, locus, loksi (Surinam) ; jutahy, jatoba (Brazil). The specific epithet is taken from an American Indian name, courbaril. Early Spanish settlers in the New World gave the name algarrobo to this and other trees of the legume family suggestive of the related Old World carob tree with the same Spanish name (Ceratonia siliqua L.*). The lat- ter, introduced experimentally in St. Croix, has pinnate leaves with 4—10 elliptic leaflets and flat pods 4—12 inches long with edible pulp. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 77. Palo de rayo, Jerusalem-thorn Parkinsonia aculeata L.* Small spiny tree characterized by: (1) smooth yellow-green or blue-green bark, branches, and twigs; (2) specialized leaves consisting of a ter- minal spine and 2 or 4 long yellow-green drooping strips bearing numerous small leaflets Vs-3Aq inch long which shed early; (3) showy golden-yellow flowers % inch or more across the 5 petals, in loose lateral clusters (racemes) 3-8 inches long; and (4) brown pod 2-4 inches long and *4 mcn or more in diameter, narrowed between the seeds. Shrub or small tree 10-20 feet tall, often branch- ing near ground, with very open crown of spread- ing branches and very thin drooping foliage, green throughout the year, though appearing leafless after the leaflets fall. The bark is smooth and very thin, yellow green or blue green but becoming brown and fissured or scaly on large trunks. Inner bark is green and slightly bitter. The slen- der, slightly zigzag, green twigs are minutely hairy when young. They have paired short spines (stipules) at nodes bordering the larger spine %-3/4 inch or more in length, which ends the leaf axis. These spines may remain on the branches and trunk in groups of 3 or singly. The alternate leaves actually are twice pinnate (bipinnate), consisting of a very short main axis ending in a spine and 1 or 2 pairs of drooping lat- eral axes 8-12 inches long and Vg inch broad, flat, and slightly thickened. Each drooping strip or streamer bears 20-30 pairs of thin, oblong, green, deciduous leaflets and functions as a leaf after the leaflets fall. Several slightly beanlike fragrant flowers are borne on slender stalks. There is a short calyx tube with 5 narrow yellow-brown lobes %6 inch long, turned downward; 5 nearly round petals •"'s y2 inch long, yellow, tinged with orange, and hairy at base, the upper petal slightly larger, red- spotted, and turning red in withering; 10 stamens 'i inch long with green filaments and brown anthers; and reddish-tinged pistil i/i inch long with hairy 1-celled ovary and slender style. The long-pointed pods contain usually 2-5 oblong dark brown seeds % inch long (5,600 to a pound) . With flowers and pods throughout the year. The sapwood is yellowish and thick, and heart- wood light or reddish brown. The wood is mod- erately hard and heavy (specific gravity 0.6), and brittle, used locally only for fuel. Sometimes grown in fences and as a spiny living hedge. The foliage and pods are browsed by live- stock. Elsewhere an infusion of the leaves has served in home medicines. Often planted as an ornamental along roads and escaping from cultivation or naturalized, chiefly in the dry coastal region of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St, Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda. Range. — Widely distributed in tropical Amer- ica, native of Texas, Arizona, and Mexico and pos- sibly elsewhere but cultivated, spreading, and becoming naturalized from southern United States (Florida and Georgia to Texas and California) south to Argentina and in the Old World tropics. Also throughout West Indies, probably intro- duced, and planted in Bermuda. ( ) thf.r common names. — flor de rayo, flor de mayo (Puerto Rico) ; lluvia de oro, acacia, acacia de los masones, cambron, siempre-viva (Dominican Republic) ; junco marino, espinillo (Cuba) ; palo- \ cnle (Mexico) ; retama (Mexico to Colombia) ; sulfate, sulfatillo, palo de rayo (Guatemala) ; sulfato (El Salvador) ; acacia de agiiijote (Nica- ragua) ; yabo, sauce, sauce espino, goajiro (Colom- bia); espinillo, pauji, cuji extranjero (Vene- zuela) ; mataburro (Peru) ; cina-cina (Uruguay, Argentina) ; Jerusalem-thorn, horsebean, palo- verde, Mexican paloverde, retama (United States) ; Jerusalem-thorn (English) ; horsebean (Bahamas) ; Jerusalem (British Guiana) ; madam naiz, madam yass (Haiti) ; arrete-boeuf (Guade- loupe, Martinique) ; boonchi strena, wonder-tree (Dutch West Indies) . 180 77. Palo de rayo, Jerusalem-thorn Two-thirds natural size Parkinsonia aculeata L. 181 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 78. Flamboyan amarillo, yellow flamboyant This handsome ornamental and shade tree, a relatively recent introduction to Pureto Rico, is characterized by : ( 1 ) the feathery or fernlike, twice pinnate leaves (bipinnate) 8-16 inches long, with numerous paired small oblong leaflets V2_% inch long and Vi~% inch broad; (2) the. dense coat of rusty or reddish-brown hairs on young twigs, leaf axes, branches of flower clusters, and flower buds; (3) many showy rusty-yellow flowers with 5 rounded petals, in large clusters; and (4) conspicuous, broad, flat and winged pods, reddish but turning to dark reddish brown, 2^-4^ inches long and 1-1% inches broad. A medium-sized to large evergreen tree 30-65 feet in height and IV2 feet or more in trunk diam- eter, graceful and with spreading branches and dense foliage. Most of the trees here are not old enough to have reached large size, the maximum elsewhere being about 100 feet. Bark on small trees is smoothish, with dots and lines (lenticels), light gray, becoming brown and furrowed. The inner bark is light brown and bitter. The alternate leaves consist of a main axis and 14-30 paired lateral axes (pinnae), each bearing 16-32 paired leaflets. Leaflets have very short stalks about V32 mcn l°ng> are rounded and slightly notched at apex and rounded and oblique at base, the edges not toothed, thin, the upper surface green and hairless, and the lower surface paler and finely hairy. Flower clusters (panicles) are terminal and widely branched, nearly 1 foot long. The calyx of the fragrant flowers is more than % inch long, with short tube and 5 rusty-brown hairy lobes; the 5 nearly equal, stalked, rounded petals %-3/4 inch long have wavy, finely toothed margins and Peltophorum inerme (Roxb.) Naves* are bright yellow with a brown hairy stripe on outside; 10 stamens with orange anthers and fila- ments brown hairy at base ; and pistil with a hairy 1 -celled ovary, slender style, and broad flat stigma. The oblong pods are short-pointed at both ends, wing-margined, with 1-4 flat seeds (5,600 to a pound), and do not split open. Flowering from spring to fall (April to September) and fruiting chiefly in the winter. The sapwood is whitish and hard. To the pres- ent the wood is used locally only for fuel. Grown for the ornamental flowers and attractive reddish fruits and as a street or shade tree in the larger cities in Puerto Rico and also in St. Thomas. Though a fairly new introduction, this species is increasing in popularity and being planted more extensively,* "ft is -propagated from seed and grows rapidly. The flowers attract bees. The trees are reported to be* shallow rooted and subject to dam- age by strong winds. Range. — Native in Ceylon, southern India. Malaya, East Indies, Philippines, and northern Australia. Widely cultivated through the tropics though apparently not yet introduced in many parts of the New World. Recorded as planted in southern Florida, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, Guadeloupe, Trinidad and Tobago, Guatemala, Panama, Venezuela, and British Guiana. Other common names. — yellow flamboyant, yellow poinciana (English) ; peltophorum, zapa- te.ro (Trinidad); palissandre (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonyms. — Caesalpinia ferruginea Decne., C. inermis Roxb., Peltophorum ferrugine- um (Decne.) Benth., P. roxburghii (G. Don) Degener. 182 78. Flamboyan amarillo, yellow flamboyant 687-921 0—64 IS Two-thirds natural size. Peltophorum inerme (Roxb.) Naves 183 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 79. Cobana negra This tree of coastal forests of southwestern and southeastern Puerto Rico is easily identified by : (1) the pinnately compound leaves with 6-12 op- posite lance-shaped to ovate leaflets l1/^— 31/2 inches long and i/>— l1/^ inches broad, on red stalks with scattered black raised clots (glands) on lower sur- face; (2) the clusters of pale yellow flowers about i/2 bnch across the 5 petals; and (3) the odd, ellip- tic, thick and fleshy, red pods 2 inches or less in length, not splitting open. A medium-sized evergreen tree 25-50 feet in height and l-l1/? feet in trunk diameter. Usually small, because the large trees have been cut. Bark on small trunks is dark gray and smoothish, be- coming rough, much furrowed, and thick on large trunks. Inner bark is light brown and bitter. The twigs are brown and hairless, with raised gray dots (lenticels). The leaves are alternate, 4—7 inches long, with a yellow-brown axis and with stalks of individual leaflets yie inch long. Leaflet blades are short- pointed at apex, rounded and slightly oblique at base, the edges slightly wavy, thickened and leath- ery, shiny on upper surface and dull beneath. Flower clusters (racemes) are terminal and lat- eral, 3-6 inches long, unbranched, and the flowers with short stalks Vi inch long. The funnel-shaped base (hypanthium) is about i/8 inch long and broad; there are "> slightly hairy sepals Vi inch long; 5 slightly hairy (papillose) petals %-Vo inch long; 10 stamens; and pistil with 1-celled ovary and slender curved style. Stahlia monosperma (Tul.) Urban The pods are about li/8 inches broad and % inch thick, with odor of ripe apples, light brown taste- less flesh, and 1 large seed. Flowering in spring and early summer (February to June) and matur- ing fruits in summer and fall. The sapwood is light brown, and the heart wood is dark brown. The wood is very hard, heavy, strong, durable, and resistant to attack b}7 dry- wood termites. Suited for furniture, although considered hard for this purpose. Mostly used for construction in the past. Because of the demand of this valuable wood, large trees have become scarce. Perhaps this species could be planted both for shade and wood. Generally found in low areas and near man- grove in the dry-coastal region of Puerto Rico east to Ceiba. Also Vieques. Public fokest. — Boqueron. Range. — Formerly known only from Puerto Rico and Vieques' but in recent years found also in eastern Dominican Republic near Macao. Other common names. — cobana, polisandro ( Puerto Rico) ; coabanilla (Dominican Republic). Botanical synonym. — Stahlia maritima Bello. The generic name Stahlia honors Agustin Stahl (1842-1917), physician and botanist of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, who wrote "Estudios sol ne la Flora de Puerto Rico" (1883-88, second edition 1936-37), an unfinished publication on the plants of the island. This is the only species of the {len us. 184 4.7^- 7!>. C6bana negra Natural size. Stahlia monosperma (Tul.) Urban 185 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) CASSIA SUBFAMILY (CAESALPINIOIDEAE; CAESALPINIACEAE) 80. Tamarindo, tamarind This well-known handsome planted tree, whose sour pods are used in a refreshing drink, is char- acterized by: (1) a generally dense crown of feathery, pinnate leaves 2-4i/£ inches long, with 10-18 pairs of oblong blue-green leaflets %-% inch long and Vs-1/* inch broad; (2) showy flowers about. 1 inch across, pale yellow tinged with red, several in terminal and lateral clusters (racemes) 1V2_6 inches long; and (3) the gray, rough, thick pods D/2-5 inches long, containing dark brown edible pulp around the seeds. Showy when in full bloom, the flowers giving yellowish color to the tree. A medium-sized tree to 40 feet high and with usually a short trunk to 3 feet in diameter or larger, with a rounded crown of dense fine foliage, except on very dry sites. The bark is rough, much fissured, gray or brown, and thick. Inner bark is brownish, gritty, and slightly bitter in taste. The twigs are green and minutely hairy when young, turning gray or brown. The leaves are alternate. Leaflets are almost stalkless and close together along a slender pale green axis, rounded at both ends and oblique at base, not toothed, thin, blue green above and slightly paler beneath, folding against axis at night. The flowers are slightly irregular shaped, deli- cate, and on slender stalks. Flower buds are dark red. The narrow, pale green basal tube (hypan- thium) is %6 inch long; there are 4 pale yellow sepals y2 inch long; 3 pale yellow petals with red veins, keeled and broader toward the finely wavy apex, the 2 outer ones % inch long and central petal % inch long, 2 other petals reduced to min- ute scales: 3 greenish stamens % inch long, united by filaments to middle, and 2 minute sterile sta- mens; and a green beanlike pistil % inch long with stalked 1-celled ovary and curved style. The heavy, often curved pods are about 114-4 inches long, %-l inch wide, and %-% inch thick, slightly constricted between the seeds, with a brittle outer shell, and not splitting open. Usually 3 or 4 flattened shiny brown seeds % inch long are imbedded in the dark brown, fibrous pulp, which is edible though very sour. Seeds 400 to a pound. Flowering mainly from spring to fall and fruiting from winter to spring. Tamarindus indica L.* The sap wood is light yellow and moderately soft, and the small heartwood dark purplish brown. The wood is described as very hard, heavy ( specific gravity 0.9) , and takes a fine polish. It is strong and durable, although very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. The wood is used chiefly for fuel and is re- ported to generate great heat. In other places where the species is sufficiently common, the wood is employed for construction, tool handles, furni- ture, and articles in woodturning but is considered very difficult to work. Good charcoal for gun- powder formerly was manufactured from it. Candy and preserves, as well as the beverage, are prepared from the edible pods. The young tender sour fruits have been cooked for seasoning meats, and the young leaves and flowers reportedly consumed as food. Besides making the trees orna- mental, the flowers attract bees and are an im- portant source of honey. However, the litter of the pods is objectionable in street planting. In India the trees are planted on forest firebreaks be- cause the ground underneath usually is bare. The fruit pulp is employed in home medicine and formerly was official as the source of a laxative. It contains sugar as well as acetic, tartaric, and citric acids and is antiscorbutic. Decoctions from flowers, seeds, young leaves, and bark of the plant have been used medicinally also. A yellow dye has been obtained from the leaves. Planted in Puerto Rico mainly for the fruits and ornament and shade and occasionally natural- ized. Fairly common around houses, along roads, and on hillsides in the coastal regions, mainly on the dry coast. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native of the Old World tropics but widely planted and naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions and introduced into the New World at a very early date. Cultivated and often naturalized throughout West Indies and from Mexico to Brazil. Planted also in southern Florida including Florida Keys and in Bermuda. Other common names. — taman, tamarindade (Virgin Islands) ; tamarindo (Spanish) ; tama- rind (United States, English) ; tamarin, tama- rinier, tamarindier (French) ; tamarijn, tamarind (Dutch West Indies); tamarinde (Surinam); tamarindo (Brazil ) . 186 i-fvTci* m m W: £M2 iSgg& s*i§!s&. 80. Tamarindo, tamarind Natural size. Tamarindus indica L. 187 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FAB ACE AE) Key to the 11 species illustrated (Nos. 81-91) A. Leaves with 3 leaflets. B. Leaflets with 3 main veins from base, short-pointed at apex. C. Leaflets wedge-shaped, whitish green beneath: spines absent — 82. Erythrina berteroana.* CC. Leaflets broadly ovate, nearly straight at base: spines often scattered on twigs and branches — 84 Erythrina poeppigiana.* BB. Leaflets with 1 main vein, ellintio to ovate, rounded or short-pointed at both ends, whitish green beneath: spines scattered on twigs and branches — 83. Erythrina glauca* AA. Leaves pinnate. D. Leaflets rounded, %-% inch long and broad, with yellowish spiny or bristle tip; twigs spiny — 88. Pictetia aculeata. DD. Leaflets larger, longer than broad, not spiny ; twigs not spiny. E. Leaflets paired. 10-30 pairs, oblong. %-l% inches long, rounded at both ends — 91. Scsbania grandiflora.* EE. Leaflets of odd number, 17 or fewer, ovate or elliptic, larger, short-pointed at apex. F. Leaves less than 1 foot long. G. Leaflets paired except at end : sap watery. H. Leaflets 5-9, usually 7, with stout stalks Vs-% inch long — 86. Lonchocarpus latifoiius. HH. Leaflets 7-13 or more, with slender stalks. I. Leaflets slightly shiny green on upper surface. 2-5 inches long — 81. Andira inermls. II. Leaflets dull green, mostly less than 2 inches long — 85. Gliricidia scpium* GG. Leaflets all attached singly, not paired ; sap dark red. J. Leaflets ovate — 89. Pterocarpus indicus* JJ. Leaflets elliptic to oblong — 90. Pterocarpus officinalis. FF. Leaves very large, l%-3 feet long; leaflets 7 or 9 (sometimes 5), large, 3-12 inches long, elliptic, with many parallel lateral veins slightly sunken — 87. Ormosia krugii. 81. Moca, cabbage angelin This attractive tree is easily recognized in flower by the showy masses of pink to purple pea.-sh.aped flowers 7/16 inch long. Other distinguishing char- acters are : ( 1 ) the rough light gray bark, which has an unpleasant cabbagelike odor when cut; (2) alternate pinnate leaves with 7-13 oblong or elliptic short- or long-pointed, thin, slightly shiny green leaflets ; and (3) the distinctive stalked elliptic or egg-shaped green pod 1-1% inches or more in length, containing 1 poisonous seed and not splitting open. A medium-sized deciduous tree becoming 20-50 feet tall and 6-12 inches in trunk diameter, some- times larger, erect in the forest but in the open ii mch branched and with dense rounded spreading crown. The bark y^-% inch thick is much fis- sured and scaly. Inner bark is light brown, some- times with slightly bitter taste. The stout twigs are green and finely hairy when young, becoming hrown or gray. The leaves 6-16 inches long have a green axis enlarged at base, bearing there when young 2 nar- row pointed green to brown scales (stipules) V8_1/2 m°h long. Leaflets, paired except at end, have short green stalks Ys-1/^ inch long and 2 narrow pointed green scales Vie-Vs mcn long at base. The blades are 2-5 inches long and 1-2 inches broad, rounded at base, not toothed at edges, turned up a little at midrib, pale and very slightly shiny or dull beneath, varying in color from yel- low green through green to brownish green. Flower clusters (panicles) are broad and much branched, 6-12 inches long, terminal or sometimes also lateral, the greenish branches finely hairy, bearing numerous almost stalkless flowers, which Andira inermis (W. Wright) H. B. K. are dark red to deep pink in bud. The bell-shaped calyx tube is %G inch long and broad, minutely 5-toothed at the almost even top, pinkish tinged, finely hairy; there are 5 usually pink petals 7/16 inch long, all narrowed and stalked at base, a broad rounded standard, 2 wings, and 2 keel petals; 10 white stamens, 1 free and 0 united into a tube about % their length; and long-stalked pistil nearly y2 inch long, including flattened light green hairy 1-celled ovary and curved slender white style. The thick pods (drupes) are slightly fleshy out- side and hard within, weighing about 20 to the pound. Recorded in flower in winter (January and February) and summer (May to September) and in fruit mainly from summer to December. Sapwood is light brown. The highly figured, decorative heartwood varies from yellowish brown to dark reddish brown with sharply contrasting bands of light and dark fibers. The wood is hard, fairly heavy (specific gravity 0.63), coarse-tex- tured, easy to work, and finishes well. It is sus- ceptible to attack by dry-wood termites but re- ported to be durable in contact with the ground. Rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining characteristics are as fol- lows: planing, turning, and sanding are excellent; shaping is fair; and boring, mortising, and resist- ance to screw splitting are good. Formerly and potentially for high-grade furni- ture and cabinetwork in Puerto Rico, the wood is now utilized chiefly for posts and poles because of the small dimensions available. Uses elsewhere are fancy turned articles including billiard-cue butts, umbrella handles, and canes, also heavy con- struction, bridge timbers, carpentry, vehicles, pil- ing, and boats. 188 si. Moca cabbage angelin Two-thirds natural size. Andira inermis (W. Wright) H. B. K. 189 Planted occasionally for coffee shade. This spe- cies has been tested in reforestation in Puerto Rico but was abandoned because of very slow growth. It also suffered heavy losses when field mice cut stems of many seedlings. Nevertheless, the adapt- ability of this species to a wide variety of sites and its capacity to produce large crops of fruits which are dispersed by animals have made it one of the most widespread trees of Puerto Rico. The bark and seeds, reportedly poisonous and in large doses causing death, have been employed in other places as a vermifuge, purgative, and nar- cotic. It is said that smoke from the wood is in- jurious to the eyes. Handsome and very showy when in flower, this species has been planted for ornament and shade in some countries. As the flowers are much visited by honey bees, the tree is an excellent honey plant. Common in all regions of Puerto Rico except the upper mountains. Commonest on the lower south- ern slopes of the Cordillera. Found in woodlands, along roadsides, fence rows, river banks, and in pastures. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Aguirre, Cambalache, Carite, Guajafaca, Guanica, Guilarte, Luqnillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, San Juan, Susua, Toro Negro, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — 6, 8, 9, 23, 32, 42, 44, 46, 47, 50, 53, 60, 61, 69, 70, 73. Range. — Through West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad. Collected at Bahia Honda Key, Florida, and introduced in southern Florida. Also from central Mexico (Michoacan) south to Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil, and in western tropical Africa. Other common names. — moca blanca (Puerto Rico) ; dog-almond, dog-plum, false-mahogany (Virgin Islands) : palo de burro (Dominican Re- public) ; yaba, yaba colorada, moca (Cuba) ; maca colorada, pacay, macayo, cuilimbuca, moca, yaba (Mexico) ; almendro (Central America) ; almen- dro cimarron, guacamayo (Guatemala) ; guaca- mayo (Honduras) ; almendro macho, almendro de rio, almendro montes, almendro real (El Salva- dor) ; cocii, carne asada (Costa Rica) ; cocti, pilon, arenillo, quira (Panama) ; congo, guayacan congo, palo de seca, majagua gallina, peloto (Colombia) ; pilon, chirai, trompillo (Venezuela) ; moton (Ecuador) ; angelim, angelim da varzea (Peru) ; ajunado (Bolivia) ; cabbage angelin, cabbage-bark (United States) ; angelin (English, commerce) ; cabbage-bark (English) ; black-plum (Tobago) ; cornwood, carbon, chaperno (British Honduras) ; batseed, koraro (British Guiana) ; bois palmiste (Haiti); angelin, bois olive (Guadeloupe, Mar- tinique) ; angelin palmiste (Guadeloupe) ; reddie, rode kabbes (Surinam) ; angelim morcequeira (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Andira jamnwensis ( W. Wright) Urban, Geoff roya mermis W. Wright. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FAB ACE AE) 82. Bucare enano, machette Erythrina berteroana Urban* This small introduced tree used as a living fence is recognized by: (1) alternate leaves with 3 wedge-shaped leaflets about as broad as long, short-pointed at apex and very broad at base, dull light green above, and whitish green beneath; (2) showy masses of coral pink to red flowers about 3 inches long but very narrow, only V4 inch broad, resembling a machete or sword in shape, many borne in erect unbranched clusters; and (3) the dark brown pod 4-6 inches long, very long stalked and very long pointed, slightly flattened and much narrowed between the oblong seeds, which are bright orange red. From related species of the same genus in Puerto Rico, bucare enano is dis- tinguished by the absence of spines on twigs and trunks, though the trunk rarely may be spiny. (A spiny form occurs in Central America.) A deciduous small tree becoming 20-25 feet high and 1 foot in diameter, with branching trunk and broad spreading thin crown. The bark is brown, smoothish, slightly warty and becoming shallow furrowed. Inner bark is about y2 incn thick, light yellow, slightly soft, and almost tasteless. The stout twigs are shiny green when young, becoming gray. The leaves 6-14 inches long have light green round petioles 3-6 inches long, enlarged at base. Leaflet stalks are %-% inch long with minute green glands at base. Leaflet blades are 2-5 inches long and l%-5 inches wide, broadly ovate and often nearly diamond-shaped, not toothed on edges, thin, with 3 main veins from base. The leaflets often are turned upward on edge, exposing the lower surfaces, which are covered with a whit- ish bloom. The attractive large flowers usually appear with the new leaves. An erect terminal flower cluster (raceme) 5-10 inches long bears many nearly hori- zontal short-stalked flowers successively shorter toward apex. The irregular flower has a tubular green calyx %-l inch long, opened on 1 side at apex and obscurely toothed; corolla of 5 unequal petals, the coral-pink to red standard 3 inches long and folded, and 4 verv small petals %-7/i6 inch long, 2 wings and 2 keel petals hidden inside; 10 slightly unequal stamens about 2V£ inches long, united into a tube most of the length with the an- 190 82. Bucare enano, machet.te Two-thirds natural size. Erythrina berteroana Urban 191 fliers protruding; and very narrow finely hairy pistil 214 inches long with stalked ovary and nar- row style. The pod resembles a string of beads in its ellip- tic swellings about % inch across outside each seed and constrict ions between these seeds. The curved opened pods with seeds attached remain on the tree after maturity. Several oblong seeds nearly % inch long are very conspicuous when exposed on the opened edges of the thin-walled pod. Flower- ing in winter and spring (January to April) and maturing fruit in spring (April-May). The wood is whitish, soft, lightweight (specific gravity 0.3), and weak. It is seldom used for other than fuel in Puerto Rico. Elsewhere it has been employed as a substitute for cork and for carving toys and figures. Posts root readily, so the tree is a common live fencepost, chiefly in the moist coastal and lower Cordillera regions. Also in Virgin Islands. The plants are propagated also by cuttings. Besides living fenceposts and hedges, the trees have been grown as support for the vines in vanilla planta- tions. However, severe attacks by defoliating in- sects make the species undesirable for this pur- pose. Young branches and leaves are a favorite food of rabbits. Cattle eat the young twigs and leaves. Because of the showy flowers this species is grown for ornament in addition to shade and has been introduced into Florida. In Guatemala the flower buds, young leaves, and young twigs are cooked and eaten like string beans, though it is thought that eating quantities induces sleep and may be injurious. The poisonous seeds of this and other species have been strung into bracelets, necklaces, and novelties. Though per- haps toxic or narcotic, parts of the tree have been employed in home remedies. It is reported that the crushed branches serve as fish poison and that the bark yields a yellow dye. Range. — Southern Mexico and Guatemala to Panama and Colombia. Also in Cuba and His- paniola, perhaps introduced long ago, and natural- ized in Puerto Rico. Planted in southern Florida and Virgin Islands and in the Old World tropics. Other common names. — machete, bucayo enano, bucayo sin espinas (Puerto Rico) : machete (Vir- gin Islands); pinon (Dominican Republic); pinon de pito, pihon de cerca, bucare (Cuba) ; pito, piton (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador) ; miche, machetillos, coralillo (Guatemala) ; ele- queme (Nicaragua) ; gallito, pernilla de casa (Panama) ; pito de peronilla, peronilla, peronio, mata caiman (Colombia) : coralbean (English) ; brucal (Haiti). Machete, a common name, is suggested by the flowers with standard petal shaped like a machete blade and the calyx forming the handle, The common name pinon de pito in Cuba refers to the use of the flowers by small boys in making whistles or flutes. The corolla placed in a hollow petiole serves as a reed. Besides the 3 species described and illus- trated here, 2 other species of bucare are native, and a few others have been introduced. Pinon espinoso (Erythrina eager six Krukoff & Moldenke ; synonym E. horrida Eggers, not DC), native only in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, is distin- guished by the spines on the veins of leaflets and by the narrow red flowers nearly 2 inches long. Another species, known as coraltree or common coralbean (Erythrina corallodendrum L.), has leaves nearly spineless and narrow coral-red flowers 2-2*4 inches long. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FABACEAE) 83. Bucare, swamp immortelle Erythrina glauca Willd.* This exotic tree, found in pastures and along roadsides in northeastern Puerto Rico, is charac- terized by: (1) scattered small spines on twigs and stout spines on branches and trunk, at least when young; (2) alternate leaves with 3 slightly leath- ery leaflets elliptic to ovate in shape, rounded or short-pointed at apex and base, shiny yellow green to dark green above and whitish green and finely hairy beneath; (3) numerous clusters of large and broad, showy, pea-shaped, orange or salmon- colored flowers, several erect near the end of a drooping axis; and (4) flattened pod 6-10 inches long and % inch wide, and containing 3-12 brown- ish or blackish poisonous seeds. The whitish un- dersurfaces of leaves make the tree recognizable at a distance. A deciduous tree 30-50 feet high and 2 feet in trunk diameter, sometimes larger, with broad crown of whitish-green foliage, The bark is light brown, smoothish but becoming rough and shal- lowly furrowed. Small trunks have stout spines %-% inch high, a few spines or warts often per- sisting on large trunks. Inner bark is as much as 1 inch thick, light brown, soft, and almost taste- less or slightly bitter. The stout twigs are light green and finely hairy when young, becoming gray, with scattered sharp spines Vs m°h or more in length and with raised leaf scars. The leaves are 8-12 inches long, the light green round petioles 2-A inches long, enlarged at base. Leaflets have stout stalks % inch long, with round green glands V1G inch in diameter at base. Leaflet blades are 2y2-6 inches long and 1^-3^ inches wide, not toothed on edges, in vertical position or folding together at night, Flower clusters (racemes) are 4-8 inches long, the finely hairy axis drooping and bearing erect flowers near t\\& end on stout, dark red and green- 192 83. Bucare, swamp immortelle Two-thirds natural size. Erythrina glauca Willd. 193 ish-tinged stalks %-% inch long. The bell-shaped calyx about % inch long is dark red, tinged with green, irregularly 3-lobed, and finely hairy ; there are 5 slightly thickened and succulent petals, the large obovate, folded, orange-red standard 214- 2% inches long and stalked at base, 2 orange-red wings yellow at base and 1 inch long, and 2 united pale yellow keel petals V/2 inches long; 10 stamens 2-2^ inches long with brown anthers and pale yel- low-green fleshy filaments, 9 united into a tube and 1 separate; and curved pale yellow-green pistil about 2 inches long, with a stalked narrow hairy ovary and curved style. The distance across an open flower may be as much as 4 inches but only % inch in the narrow dimension. The poison- ous seeds are about % inch long. Flowering in winter and early spring (January to March) and with mature fruit in spring. The heartwood is light yellow to yellowish brown and moderately soft. The lightweight wood is weak, not durable, and scarcely suitable for lumber. Trees have been planted in pastures and along roadsides and fences and are ornamental as well as shade trees. Uses in other countries include shade for cacao and coffee and living fenceposts. Propagated by cuttings. Found near Bayamon, Rio Piedras, and Caguas, Puerto Rico. Also recorded from St. Thomas more than a century ago but not now planted there. Range. — Native probably from Guatemala to Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and Venezuela, the original range extended by cultivation. Also introduced in West Indies in the Greater Antilles, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Vincent, and Trinidad and To- bago. Planted also in southern Florida, British Honduras, and in the Old World tropics. Where native, this species forms pure forests character- istic of swamps and stream valleys. Other common names. — bucayo (Puerto Rico) ; pinon f ranees, bucare, pinon del cauto (Cuba) ; guiliqueme (Honduras) ; ahuijote, ahuejote (El Salvador) ; poro (Costa Rica) ; gallito, pito, palo hobo, palo santo (Panama) ; cambulo, bucaro, can- tagallo, pisamo, pisamo calentado (Colombia) ; bucare, ceibo, anauco (Venezuela) ; palo prieto, madre de cacao (Ecuador) ; amasisa (Peru) ; bois immortelle (United States) ; swamp immortelle, bucare, bocare (Jamaica) ; bocare immortelle, water immortelle (Trinidad and Tobago) ; sand- coker, oronoque, cock-tree (British Guiana) ; bois immortel, immortel blanc (Guadeloupe, Martini- que) ; suina, assacu-rana (Brazil). LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FABACEAE) 84. Bucayo gigante, mountain immortelle This introduced shade tree of coffee plantations and roadsides may be recognized by : (1) beautiful masses of showy orange-red flowers in late winter, when the trees are leafless, the large pea-shaped flowers 1V&-2 inches long, erect on nearly horizon- tal axes; (2) the trunk and branches often with stout spines; (3) alternate leaves with 3 broadly ovate thin leaflets, short-pointed at apex and very broad pointed or nearly straight at base, green on both sides; and (4) straight, cylindrical, dark brown pod 5-10 inches or less in length and about % inch wide, long-stalked at base and long-pointed at both ends. A large deciduous tree attaining 30-70 feet in height and 2-4 feet in trunk diameter, with spread- ing crown. The bark is greenish brown or gray brown, smoothish or slightly furrowed, warty or spiny. Inner bark is thick, becoming % inch or more in thickness, whitish, and slightly bitter. The stout twigs are light green and minutely hairy when young, becoming greenish gray, with raised leaf scars, and often with scattered spines y16 inch or more in length. Leaves are 8-12 inches long, including the light green finely hairy petioles 2V2-8 inches long. Leaf- lets have stalks y%-% inch long with 2 green cup- like glands about y8 inch long at base of lateral leaflets and 2 more glands below terminal leaflet. Erythrina poeppigiana (Walp.) 0. F. Cook* The thin leaflet blades are 2Vo-7 inches long and 2-6 inches wide, or larger on rapidly growing shoots, not toothed at edges, with 3 main veins from base, green and dull or nearly so on upper surface, and slightly lighter dull green beneath. Horizontal flower clusters (racemes) 4-8 inches long bear a few open flowers, which fall soon after opening, and many narrow flower buds progres- sively smaller toward apex. Thus, the ground under a tree becomes orange red too. The flowers are 1^-2 inches long and about half as wide. The cup-shaped calyx is %6-% incn l°nffi reddish at the top and greenish below, not toothed ; 5 orange- red petals, the large orange standard \y±-\y2 inches long, elliptic, keeled, short-pointed, and spreading, 2 short elliptic wings y2 inch long, orange red but yellow toward base, and 2 united keel petals l^-l1/^ inches long, orange red but yel- low toward base, enclosing the stamens; 10 sta- mens l^-l1/^ inches long, 9 united into a light yel- low tube and 1 separate, the anthers brown ; and narrow greenish pistil about IV2 inches long in- cluding stalked ovary and style. There is some variation in flower color, a few trees having pale yellow-orange blossoms and others rarely seen with scarlet petals. The pod contains several brown kidney-shaped beanlike seeds % inch long, which are poisonous. 194 84. Bucayo gigante, mountain immortelle Two-thirds natural size. Erythrina poeppigiana (Walp. ) O. F. Cook 195 In Puerto Rico flowering usually from January to March, sometimes also in August, the fruits ma- turing from February to May. The wood is whitish, soft, perishable, and little used in Puerto Rico. Formerly the trees were widely planted in Puerto Rico for coffee shade. Now, however, they are not recommended for that purpose. They grow to large size, larger than desirable for coffee shade and thus may compete with the crop be- neath. The weak branches are easily broken by strong winds or hurricanes. The trees are grown also as ornamental and shade trees. Centuries ago this species was transported over the American tropics from its home in lower slopes of the Andes as a shade tree for coffee and cacao plantations and pastures and for living fences. In some countries, especially in the Andes, this is still a popular coffee shade tree. The bark, twigs, and seeds of various species of this gemis are more or less toxic. They have pro- vided drugs and medicines locally and have been employed also to stupefy fish. It is reported that the flowers of this species have been eaten in soup and salad. Chiefly in coffee plantations in the lower Cordil- lera and moist limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also in St. Thomas. Municipality where especially common. — 73. Range. — Native probably from Venezuela to Panama, south to Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. Now extensively planted and naturalized in tropical America north to Guatemala and intro- duced into the Greater Antilles, Guadeloupe, Mar- tinique, and Trinidad and Tobago. Cultivated also in the Old World tropics and recorded from southern Florida. Other common names. — bucare gigante, bucare, bucar, brucayo, palo de boya (Puerto Rico) ; bu- matell (St. Thomas) ; brucal, amapola, mapola (Dominican Republic) ; pinon de sombra, bucare (Cuba) ; pito extranjero (Guatemala, El Salva- dor) ; pisamo, saivo, cachimbo, cambulo, pito gigante (Colombia) ; bucare, ceibo (Venezuela) ; bombon (Ecuador) ; amasisa (Peru) ; saibo (Bo- livia) ; anauca (United States) ; mountain immor- telle, bois immortelle (Jamaica, Trinidad) ; anauca immortelle, cocoa-mamma, coffee-mamma (Trinidad) ; bois immortel (Haiti) ; bois immor- tel, immortel jaune (Guadeloupe) ; mulungu (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Erythrina micropteryx Poepp. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FAB ACE AE) 85. Mata-raton, mother-of-cocoa Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Steud.* Mata-raton, a small introduced tree commonly planted in fence rows and for ornament, is dis- tinguished by: (1) odd pinnate leaves 6-16 inches long with 7-17 ovate, elliptic, or lance-shaped leaf- lets; (2) numerous showy whitish-pink or pur- plish-tinged pea-shaped flowers about % inch long in lateral clusters along old branches when leafless or along branches back of leaves; and (3) Hat blackish pods 4—6 inches long. A small deciduous tree or shrub, becoming 25 feet tall and 8 inches in trunk diameter, with ir- regular spreading crown of thin foliage. The bark is gray or light brown, smoothish to slightly fissured. Inner bark is whitish and almost taste- less. Young twigs are light green and finely hairy, the older twigs light brown. The alternate leaves have slender yellow-green finely hairy axes. Leaflets, paired except the ter- minal one, have hairy stalks about %6 inch long. The thin leaflet blades are IV4-2V2 inches long and %-lV4 inches wide, short- to long-pointed at apex, rounded or short-pointed at base, not toothed at edges, dull green above, and gray green and slightly hairy beneath. The numerous lateral flower clusters (racemes) 2-5 inches long are many flowered. The attractive flowers have a slender green stalk and a bell- shaped light green calyx tinged with red, V4 inch long and broad, minutely 5-toothed at apex; the butterfly-shaped corolla about % inch long con- sists of 5 whitish-pink or purplish-tinged petals, the broad standard turned back and yellowish near base, 2 oblong curved wings, and 2 united petals forming a keel ; 10 whitish stamens % mch long, 9 united, in a tube and 1 separate; and pistil % inch long, with stalked narrow red ovary and whitish bent style. The pods are yellow green when immature, turn- ing blackish, !/2_% mcn ^Tide, short-stalked at base and short-pointed at apex, splitting open at ma- turity. There are 3-8 flat, elliptic, shiny, blackish seeds % inch long (2,000 to a pound). Flowering in winter and spring ( December to May) , the fruit maturing from winter to summer. The sapwood is light brown and the heartwood dark brown, turning reddish brown on exposure. The wood is hard, heavy, strong, and considered durable in the ground as posts. It is used chiefly for this purpose in Puerto Rico because promptly set posts generally sprout and take root, lasting indefinitely. Elsewhere the wood has been em- ployed for railroad ties and heavy construction. Pretty and taking a good polish, it should be suit- able for furniture and small articles. This tree is a popular ornamental or hedge plant, being readily propagated from cuttings as well as 196 85. Mata-raton, mother- of- cocoa Natural size. Gliricidia sepium (Jacq. ) Steud. 197 seed and growing rapidly. However, an objection to further planting of this species in Puerto Rico is that the foliage often is attacked by an aphid or plant louse. These tiny insects spread and multi- ply rapidly, secreting a sweet liquid which attracts ants and causes growth of a black fungus or sooty mold over the leaves. Many blackened leaves fall, and automobiles parked beneath the trees may be damaged by the liquid. As the common name mata-raton (mouse killer) suggests, the toxic seeds, bark, leaves, and roots are used to poison rats, mice, and other rodents. Another use of the freshly crushed leaves is in poultices in home remedies. The leaves are re- ported to be nutritious for cattle and also to be poisonous for horses and dogs. The flowers, though not fragrant, are visited by bees and are a source of honey. In a few countries the flowers are fried or boiled and eaten. The names madre de cacao and mother-of -cocoa, applied to this species is some areas, indicate that the trees are grown also as shade trees in cacao plantations. Before the Spanish conquest, the Aztec Indians of Mexico had observed that cacao grew well under these trees, which they named cacahuanantl or mother of cacao. These trees have nodules on their roots containing nitrogen- fixing bacteria which enrich the soil. Another use of mata-raton is support for vanilla vines. In a few countries the trees, though not evergreen, have been planted for coffee shade. In Puerto Rico this species is common along roads, in fence rows and as an ornamental in the moist and dry coastal regions, the moist limestone region, and lower mountain regions. It may be naturalized locally. Also planted occasionally in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola. Range.— Native from Mexico to Colombia, Venezuela, and Guianas. Introduced and becom- ing naturalized in West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Lesser Antilles, Trinidad, and Cura- sao. Planted also in southern Florida and in South America south to Brazil. Also introduced into the Old World tropics, including Africa and southern Asia and recorded as naturalized in the Philippine Islands. Other common names. — madre de cacao (Puer- to Rico) ; pea-tree (Virgin Islands) ; mata-raton, madre de cacao (Spanish) ; pinon de Cuba (Do- minican Republic) ; pinon amoroso, pinon florido, bien vestida, pinon violento (Cuba) ; cacahuan- anche, cocoite (Mexico) ; madera negra (Hon- duras, Costa Rica, Panama) ; madriado, madrial, eacaguance, cacagua (Honduras) ; palo de hierro, cacahuanance (El Salvador); madriado (Nicara- gua); bala, balo (Panama); St. Vincent plum, quick-stick (Jamaica) ; Nicaragua cocoa-shade, madura (Trinidad) ; quick-stick (British Gui- ana) ; lilas etranger (Haiti) ; gliricidia, gliceridia (Guadeloupe) ; yerba di tonka, mataraton, raton- era (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Gliricidia maculata (H. B. K.) Steud. 86. Retama LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FAB ACE AE) Lonchocarpus latifolius (Willd.) H. B. K. This uncommon though widely distributed tree is characterized by: (1) alternate pinnate leaves with 5-9, usually 7, elliptic leaflets on thick stalks, 2-6 inches long, pale light green and finely hairy beneath, paired except at end; (2) numerous crowded purple pea-shaped flowers %6 inch long in lateral clusters which usually are several to- gether near end of twigs; and (3) the distinctive light brown oblong flat pods D/2^ inches long and %-l inch wide, short-pointed at both ends, very thin and like parchment, 1-3-seeded but not split- ting open, often produced in large numbers and rather conspicuous. A small to medium-sized deciduous tree 15-30 feet high and 4-8 inches in trunk diameter with spreading crown. The bark is gray to brown, smoothish, becoming slightly fissured. The light brown inner bark is slightly bitter. The brown twigs are finely hairy when young. The leaves are 7-14 inches long, with finely hairy green axis and leaflet stalks Vg-i/t inch long." Leaf- let blades are 1^4-2% inches wide, mostly short- pointed at apex but varying from blunt to long- pointed, rounded or short-pointed at base, the edges not toothed, thin or very slightly thickened, above green to dark green and hairless, and be- neath pale light green and finely hairy. Flower clusters (racemes or panicles) are 2-4V2 inches long at base of leaves, the axis usually finely brown hairy and the flower stalks about Vi6 inch long, also hairy. The flowers have a bell-shaped 5-toothed calyx y8 inch long, finely brown hairy ; dark reddish-purple to greenish-purple corolla of 5 stalked petals about Vi inch long, the rounded standard notched at apex and finely brown hairy on outside, 2 oblong wings, and 2 elliptic slightly united keel petals; 10 stamens Vi inch long with filaments united; and pistil with narrow brown hairy ovary and bent style. The minutely hairy pod is thickened and darker brown around the flat seeds, which are brown, kidney-shaped, and 7/16 inch long. Recorded in flower from March to June and in fruit nearly through the year. The sapwood is whitish and the heartwood red- dish. The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 198 Two-thirds natural size. 687-921 O— 64 14 Lonchocarpus latifolius (Willd.) H. B. K. 199 0.6), strong, and reported to be durable. Used chiefly for fuel or fenceposts in Puerto Rico. In Cuba the wood is employed for piling. Planted as an ornamental in southern Florida and Cuba. Also a honey plant. The root and fruit reportedly have insecticidal properties. Along streams and in young forests in the moist coastal, moist limestone, and lower mountain for- est regions of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Lu- quillo, Susua. Range. — Through West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Grenada and Trinidad. Also from southern Mexico (Tabasco), Guatemala, and Brit- ish Honduras to Colombia, Venezuela, the Gui- anas, and Brazil. Introduced in southern Florida and Cuba. Other common names. — palo hediondo, fort- eventura, genogeno, palo seco (Puerto Rico) ; guama, de costa, frijolillo amarillo, guama macho (Cuba) ; mataboy (Guatemala) ; cincho (Hon- duras) ; guapaste, cuapaste (Nicaragua) ; coto (Costa Rica) ; acurutu, mahomo, jebe (Venezu- ela) ; savonette (St. Lucia) ; white savonette, savonette jaune (Trinidad) ; lancewood (United States) ; swamp dogwood, dogwood (British Honduras) ; dogwood (Canal Zone) ; savonette grand bois, savonnette grandes feuilles, savon- nette riviere (Guadeloupe, Martinique). Two other species of this genus are native and a few others have been planted experimentally. Genogeno (Lonchocarpvs doming ensis (Pers.) DC), of western and southern Puerto Rico, has leathery pods deeply narrowed between the seeds, long-pointed leaflets hairy beneath, and twigs finely hairy. Geno (Lonchocarpus glavcifolius Urban), known only from western Puerto Rico, has narrow leathery pods not or only slightly narrowed be- tween seeds, leaflets whitish beneath and notched at apex, and twigs hairless. LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FAB ACE AE) 87. Palo de matos A tree of mountain forests characterized by : (1) clean, light tan, smoothish bark; (2) young twigs finely brown hairy; (3) very large pinnate leaves l!/2-3 feet long, consisting of 7 or 9 (sometimes 5) stout-stalked, large, elliptic, dull green leaflets with abrupt minute point at rounded apex, paired ex- cept at end; (4) many pea-shaped dark violet flowers % inch long in terminal or lateral clusters ; and (5) brown pod 1^-4 inches long, deeply nar- rowed between the rounded seeds, which are % inch in diameter and shiny scarlet red usually with 1 or more black spots. A medium-sized evergreen tree 30-60 feet high and to 2 feet in trunk diameter, with broad crown. The bark becomes scaly on large trees. Twigs are stout and greenish. Young leaves, branches of flower clusters, calyx, and pods are finely brown hairy. The alternate leaves have a stout green axis keeled above and swollen at base. The green leaf- let stalks are %-% inch long, longer on the ter- minal leaflet. Blades are 3-12 inches long and 11A-8 inches wide, the base rounded or short- pointed, not toothed on edges, strongly pinnately veined with many parallel lateral veins slightly sunken, slightly thickened, the upper surface dull green, and the lower surface paler and inconspicu- ously fine hairy, especially on the veins. Flower clusters (panicles) are 6-12 inches long, branched, and many-flowered. The short-stalked flower has a brown hairy bell-shaped calyx more than % inch long, including unequal pointed teeth ; 5 dark violet petals about % inch long, including broad rounded standard spotted with white or yel- Ormosia krugii Urban low, 2 wings, and 2 keel petals; 10 separate and unequal stamens; and pistil % inch long with flat- tened brown-hairy 1-celled ovary and slender curved style. The brown pods are %-% inch wide, slightly keeled, long-pointed at both ends, and with calyx remaining at base. There are 1^5 seeds, rounded but slightly flattened. Recorded in flower from September to November and in fruit from May to November. The sapwood is yellowish, and the heartwood a uniform salmon color with occasional darker streaks. The wood is somewhat coarse-textured, of medium weight (specific gravity 0.50), with in- distinct growth rings, and large open pores. It is very susceptible to damage by dry-wood termites. The rate of air-seasoning is slow, and amount of degrade is moderate. Machining characteristics are as follows : planing, shaping, sanding, and re- sistance to screw splitting are good; turning, bor- ing, and mortising are fair. The wood is used chiefly for fuel in Puerto Rico. However, it should be suitable for furniture, mill- work, construction, boxes, crates, and general carpentry. Because of the rapid growth and vigorous sprouting of the trees in secondary forests, efforts are being made to find a better use for the wood. Apparently the trees are shallow rooted and easily blown over, as many are leaning or prostrate. Possibly suited for shade or ornament. Found in secondary forests in the lower Luquillo and lower Cordillera forest regions of Puerto Rico. 200 87. Palo de matos Two-thirds natural size. Ormosia krugii Urban 201 Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Toro Negro. Range. — Hispaniola (Haiti and Dominican Re- public), Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe, and Dominica. Other common names. — matillo, mato, palo de peronias, peronia (Puerto Rico) ; peronia, palo de peronia (Dominican Republic) ; malcaconier (Do- minica). LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FABACEAE) 88. Tachuelo, fustic This small tree of dry areas is easily identified by: (1) spiny branches, usually several from the base; (2) odd pinnate leaves 2l/2— IV2 inches long with 9-25 rounded or obovate leaflets %-% inch- long and broad, almost stalkless, each bearing a yellowish spiny or bristle tip Yiq-Y^ inch long at apex ; (3) quantities of showy, bright yellow, pea- shaped flowers %-l inch long, several together in a lateral cluster; and (4) narrow flattened brown pod 34-2 inches long and 14 inch wide, 2-6- jointed. A deciduous tree or shrub 10-20 feet high and to 8 inches in trunk diameter or larger. Formerly reported to 30 feet tall, but now rarely seen that size because most large individuals have been cut. Bark of shrubs is brown or gray and smooth with spines remaining, on larger trunks separating in large flakes. Inner bark is yellowish and slightly bitter. The slender twigs are brown or green and finely hairy when young. The alternate leaves have at base a pair of slender spines (stipules) %6_1/2 inch long, brown- ish but green when young, and a slender finely hairy axis. Leaflets are notched or nearly straight at the spiny tip, rounded or slightly notched at base, bent up on both sides of midrib and curved down at tip, not toothed on edges, slightly thickened, finely hairy when young but becoming nearly hairless, and green and slightly shiny on both surfaces. Flower clusters (racemes) are iy2-3 inches long, Pictetia aculeata (Vahl) Urban with flowers on slender stalks. The bell-shaped green calyx V4~% inch long is unequally 5-toothed ; there are 5 petals ^-l inch long, narrowed into stalks at base, the bright yellow standard nearly round and curved backward, 2 bright yellow ob- long wings, and 2 pale yellow petals forming the keel; 10 stamens %-l inch long, 9 united into a tube and 1 separate; and greenish pistil consisting of stalked, narrow, hairy, 1-celled ovary and slen- der curved style. The slightly curved pod is fine- ly hairy and does not split open. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood dark brown. Resembling lignumvitae, the wood is extremely hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.8), and durable. Used in Puerto Rico only for fence- posts, since larger sizes are not now available, for- merly also for larger poles. Because of the numerous attractive yellow flow- ers which beautify the countryside, this species is suitable as an ornamental for dry areas. Some- times grown as a living fencepost. Coastal thickets and pastures in the dry coastal and dry limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada. Public forests. — Aguirre, Guanica. Municipalities where especially common. — 21, 26, 28, 36, 55, 66, 75. Range. — Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands and reported from Hispaniola. 202 W J y§ ^h .-%, £%v m m A 3>, m m s$ 88. Tachuelo, fustic Natural size. Pictetia aculeata (Valil) Urban 203 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FAB ACE AE) 89. Pterocarpus, India padauk An introduced handsome ornamental, shade, and timber tree, distinguished by: (1) a broad crown of long drooping branches, some nearly touching the ground; (2) reddish latex sparingly produced in the cut bark; (3) pinnate leaves alter- nate in 2 rows with usually 7-11 ovate, thin, shiny, green to yellow-green alternate leaflets, long- pointed at apex; (4) many showy, yellow pea- shaped flowers nearly % inch long, produced in lateral clusters; and (5) nearly round brown pod l1/!-!1/^ inches in diameter, flattened and bordered by a broad thin wing, stalked at base and with pointed style at 1 side. A spreading medium-sized tree 50 feet high and 1 foot in trunk diameter, or larger. Essentially evergreen but nearly leafless for a short period in spring when old leaves are falling and new leaves forming. The bark is light brown and finely fis- sured. Inner bark is light brown and reddish brown streaked, astringent, and yielding a small amount of red latex, sticky and bitter, when cut. Twigs are green when young, becoming light brown, hairless except at apex. The slightly drooping leaves about 9-16 inches long have a slender green axis enlarged at base, and the leaflets have stalks about 14 inch long. A few short leaves have only 3-5 leaflets. Leaflet blades are 21^-5 inches long and l1/^-^1/^ inches wide, the edges not toothed, turned up a little at midrib, shiny green to yellow green above and dull green beneath. The fragrant flowers are borne on slender green stalks in clusters (racemes and panicles) 4—7 inches long. The slightly irregular bell-shaped green calyx is %6 inch long, pointed at base and un- equally 5-toothed at apex, and minutely hairy; the 5 yellow petals %-% inch or less in length are stalked at base, incoming crinkled, the rounded standard % inch wide and rolled backward, 2 wings, and 2 smaller paler keel petals barely united on sides; 10 stamens about % inch long, Pterocarpus indicus Willd.* united by the whitish filaments into 2 groups of 5 each ; and green hairy pistil %6 inch long, consist- ing of stalked narrow ovary and tapering style. The winged pods have a roughened wrinkled en- largement near the center enclosing 1 or 2 small seeds but do not split open. Flowering in June and July and maturing fruits in summer to Sep- tember. The reddish hard wood is an excellent timber in southern Asia, known as padauk or Burma-rose- wood. It is listed among the most valuable timbers in the Philippines, where it is called narra. Uses include construction, furniture, musical instru- ments, and cart wheels. Lignum nephriticum (Latin for kidney wood) was the wood of this Philippine species and of kid- ney wood (Eysenhardtia polystachya (Ortega) Sarg.) from Mexico. It was known throughout Europe from the 16th to early 18th centuries for its reputed diuretic properties but is no longer employed in medicine. However, infusions of the wood are fluorescent, and this odd response to light may have been associated with remedies. Cups made from the wood and chips of wood impart to water a beautiful blue and yellow color, which changes in light and shadow. Classed among the finest tropical shade trees, this species is occasionally planted in Puerto Rico for shade and ornament. Introduced by the United States Forest Service in 1924, it is still limited to a few streets and patios, chiefly in the metropolitan areas. A honey plant. Range. — Philippines to Java, Sumatra, south- ern China, Burma, and Andaman Isands of India and introduced in southern India. Planted else- where in the tropics for shade, such as in southern Florida, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad. Other common names. — India padauk, Burma- coast padauk, Burma-rosewood (English); rose- wood (Trinidad). 204 Aw/aj 89. Pteroearpus, India padauk Two-thirds natural size. Pteroearpus indicus Willd. 205 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FABACEAE) 90. Palo de polio, swamp bloodwood Large tree of swamp forests and stream borders in mountains, easily recognized by the enormous narrow planklike "buttresses extending high up trunk and horizontally along, roots and by the dark blood-red latex in bark. Other distinguishing characters are: (1) alternate pinnate leaves with 5-9 elliptic to oblong long-pointed shiny green alternate leaflets; (2) clusters of yellow pea- shaped flowers V2-% inch long and broad; and (3) flat, irregularly rounded, dark brown winged pods 1 1/^-2 inches in diameter. An evergreen tree 50-90 feet tall and 2-3 feet in trunk diameter above buttresses. Trunks often are curved or crooked and fluted. The very promi- nent buttresses on large trees sometimes rise to 15 feet in height and may be 2-5 feet wide at base, often extending outward along roots a distance of 10 feet. These buttresses, frequently 4 large ones to a tree with smaller ones between, and scarcely 1 inch wide, generally curve snakelike along the forest floor. Bark of trunk and but- tresses is smoothish light brown, becoming finely and thinly fissured and scaly. Inner bark is light brown, with dark blood-red streaks in inner part, slightly bitter, containing bitter latex. Twigs are green or reddish green, becoming brown. Leaves are 6-16 inches long, the axis reddish when young but turning brownish green, slender but enlarged at base and with 2 basal narrow pointed green scales (stipules), which shed early. Leaflets have stout green stalks Vs-%6 mch long and thin or only slightly tbickened blades 2-6 incbes long and 1 14-21/2 inches wide, rounded at base, not toothed on edges, shiny green above, and beneath a little lighter and shiny or dull. Flower clusters (panicles or racemes) are mostly 214-6 inches long, lateral at base of leaves, with many loosely arranged short-stalked fragrant flowers, the branches finely hairy. The bell- shaped calyx 1/4 inch long has 5 unequal short- pointed teeth; 5 yellow petals about y2 inch long with narrow stalklike bases, the broad rounded standard reddish tinged or dark red near base, or reported sometimes to be violet tinged, also 2 wings, and 2 keel petals; 10 stamens about %6 inch long, united into a tube about half their length; and pistil more than %6 inch long, composed of long stalk, flattened 1-celled ovary, and short slender style. The pod, green when immature, turning to dark brown, is short-stalked with calyx at base, 11/4-2 inches in diameter, oblique or asymmetrical, with Pterocarpus officinalis Jacq. few prominent veins, with wing around edge broad on 1 side, not splitting open, 1-seeded. Re- corded in flower from February to September and in fruit from April to November. The sapwood is whitish to light yellow. The wood is lightweight (specific gravity 0.3), very soft, and weak. It stains easily in drying, is sub- ject to decay, and susceptible to attack by dry- wood termites. The wood has been used in Puerto Rico for floats for fishnets. At one time pieces of the thin but- tresses served as pans in washing or panning for gold. The resin or gum, which soon solidifies from the latex, formerly was exported in large quantities from Colombia to Spain for medicinal use under the name sangre de drago as a hemo- static and also as an astringent. The trees have been planted for shade and ornament in southern Florida and Cuba and might be suitable for the same purposes in Puerto Rico. Grows in swamp forests, chiefly on the land- ward side of mangrove but also in swamps and along streambanks in the lower Luquillo forest region up to about 1,500 feet elevation. Common in swampy areas on the southeast coast near Humacao. Public forests. — Luquillo, San Juan. Municipality where especially common. — 33. Range. — Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinque, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and Trinidad. Also in continental tropi- cal America from southeastern Mexico (Yucatan) and British Honduras to Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guianas, and Brazil. Introduced in Cuba and southern Florida. Other common names. — sangre de drago (Puer- to Rico, Spanish) ; drago (Dominican Republic, commerce) ; sangregado (Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica) ; sangre, cowee (Honduras) ; chajada amarilla, sangrillo (Costa Rica) ; bloodwood (Panama) ; sabroso (Colombia) ; sangrito, cacu, lagunero, mucutena (Venezuela) ; bambulo (Ecua- dor) ; swamp bloodwood (Trinidad) ; kaway, swamp kaway (British Honduras) ; bloodwood, corkwood (British Guiana); bois pale (Haiti); mangle medaille, paletuvier, sang dragon (Guade- loupe) ; moutouchi de savane (French Guiana) ; bebe, bebe hoedoe, watrabebe, waata gwe-gwe (Surinam) ; mututy (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Pterocarpus draco L. (in part). 206 X). Palo de polio, swamp bloodwood Two-thirds natural size. Pterocarpus officinalis Jacq. 207 LEGUME FAMILY (LEGUMINOSAE) PEA SUBFAMILY (LOTOIDEAE; FAB ACE AE) 91. Baculo, agati An introduced ornamental, spreading from cul- tivation, this tree is distinguished by: (1) alter- nate, even pinnate leaves with 10-30 pairs of ob- long leaflets %-l^ inches long and Vi-1/^ mcn wide, rounded at both ends, and very short- stalked; (2) giant white or bright red, flattened, pea-shaped flowers 21^-4 inches long, 2-5 hanging in a stalked cluster at base of a leaf; and (3) light brown pods 12-18 inches long and only 5/16 inch wide, flattened but slightly 4-angled, long-pointed at both ends, and stalked at base. Rapidly growing, short-lived, deciduous small tree attaining 15-25 feet in height and 6-12 inches in trunk diameter, with thin crown of few branches. The gray bark is y2 inch or more in thickness, rough, and furrowed into thick plates. Inner bark is pink and slightly bitter. The young twigs are finely hairy. Leaves are 6-14 inches long, with finely hairy axes enlarged at base. The leaflets have very short hairy stalks less than y16 inch long and thin blades with apex round or minutely notched with very tiny point, with base rounded but. slightly unequal- sided, pale green, and nearly hairless except when young. Flower clusters (racemes) shorter than the leaves have 2-5 flowers with unpleasant odor, com- monly white but red in one variety, which is illus- trated. The bud is somewhat curved. The large bell -shaped whitish calyx is nearly 1 inch long, slightly 2-lobed with 5 shallow teeth; the corolla of 5 white or red fleshy petals 2^-4 inches long, stalked at base, the oblong spreading standard shorter than the others and curved back. 2 curved wings, and 2 united curved keel petals; 10 curved stamens, 9 united into a tube and 1 separate; and pistil of stalked very narrow ovary and slender style. The pods hang down and split open to re- lease many elliptic brown seeds %6 inch long. Flowering and fruiting throughout the year. The wood is whitish, soft, and lightweight. It is weak and seldom used. Sesbania grandiflora (L.) Pers.* In India and elsewhere in southern Asia uses have been found for other parts of the tree. The flowers, tender green pods, and young leaves are eaten, such as in salads, curries, soups, and fried. Leaves and young shoots are fed to cattle also. The bark yields a fiber, and gum with red and yellow coloring principles has been obtained from the pinkish white sap exuding from the cut trunk. Extracts of leaves and flowers and of the bark have been employed medicinally. The name baculo (walking-stick) perhaps was suggested by the odd, very long and narrow pods. Other names, gallito and cresta de gallo (cocks- comb), are descriptive of the shape and color of t he flowers in the red-flowered variation. Flower- ing when small and only 2 years old. Planted as an ornamental in gardens and escap- ing from cultivation in roadsides and thickets and perhaps naturalized locally in Puerto Rico, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Range. — Native from India to East Indies, Philippines, and northern Australia. Widely though sparingly distributed by cultivation and occasionally spontaneous or naturalized in south- ern Florida, through most of the West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to St. Vincent and Trinidad, and from southern Mexico through most countries of Central America to South America. Other common names. — gallito, cresta de gallo, agati (Puerto Rico) ; jack-in-the-beanstalk (Vir- gin Islands) ; gallito (Dominican Republic) ; cresta de gallo, gallito bianco, gallito Colorado, zapaton bianco, zapaton rojo, paloma (Cuba) ; pico de flamenco (Mexico) ; choncho (El Salva- dor) ; cobreque (Nicaragua) ; gallito (Venezue- la) ; agati, agati sesbania, Australian corkwood- tree (United States) ; agati, flamingo-bill (Ba- hamas) ; pois vallier (Haiti) ; colibri vegetal, papillon, fleur-papillon (Guadeloupe) ; tiger- tongue (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Agati grandiflora (L.) Desv. This genus is represented also by 3 native species of shrubs. The generic name formerly was spelled also Seshan. 208 m jVf- l [ "■*''!' 91. Baculo, agati Two-thirds natural size. Scubania grandiflora (L.) Pers. 209 92. Indio COCA FAMILY (ERYTHROXYLACEAE) Erythroxylon areolatum L. A small tree or shrub of dry areas characterized by: (1) short -stalked elliptic leaves iyo-3 inches long and %-lV2 inches broad, minutely notched at rounded apex and with 2 faint lines nearly par- allel with midrib and more prominent on lower surface; (2) small whitish flowers %6 inch across, several together in lateral clusters mostly before the leaves or at base of new leaves; and (3) fleshy red oblong fruits 5Aq-% inch long, 1-seeded. A deciduous tree or shrub 8-20 feet high and 2-6 inches in trunk diameter. The gray bark is fissured and scaly, inner bark red and slightly bit- ter. Twigs gray, the short lateral twigs often with old scales where leaves and flowers were borne. The leaves are alternate but sometimes close together on short lateral twigs. Petioles are %6- Vi inch long and slender, with a pointed scale (stipule) i/8 inch long inside base. Blades are broadly short-pointed at base, not toothed on edges, with 2 faint lines nearly parallel with mid- rib but converging with it at both ends, thin, dull dark green above, and pale whitish green beneath. Several fragrant flowers develop from a lateral bud on twig, each on a slender stalk Vs_1/4 mcn long. There is a 5 -toot lied green calyx less than y16 inch long; 5 white rounded spreading petals % inch long, each with a minute 2-lobed scale on inner side; 10 stamens Vie-Vs inch long, united in- to a tube in lower part; and pistil about y8 inch long with 3-celled green ovary and 3 styles. Some flowers have long stamens and short styles, while others have short stamens and long styles. Col- lected in flower in different months from October to June. The fruits (drupes) are green when im- mature but turn red and have thin flesh and 1 large seed. The sapwood is light brown and hard. Heart- wood is rich reddish brown (the generic name means red wood) or chocolate brown, with oily appearance, very fine-grained, and very hard. The wood is heavy, strong, and highly durable but available only in small sizes. It is reported that the leaves contain a small amount of cocaine. This drug is obtained from the leaves of coca (Erythroxylon coca Lam.), a related species of the Andes of Peru and Bolivia. Characteristic of thickets and forests on hills from Ponce to Cabo Rojo, the dry coastal and dry limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Mona and doubtfully recorded from St. Thomas. Public forests. — Guajataca, Guanica. Range. — West Indies in Bahamas, Cuba, Ja-j maica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and Mona. Also in southern Mexico (Tabasco to Yucatan), Guate- mala, El Salvador, British Honduras, and Hon- duras. Reported from northern South America, 1 probably in error. Other common names. — palo de hierro, cocaina falsa, muerto, hierro negro (Puerto Rico) ; piragua, fruta de paloma, arabo (Dominican Re- public) ; arabo carbonero, arabo jiba, arabo real (Cuba) ; limoncillo (Guatemala) ; thin-leaf ery- 1 throxylon (Babamas) ; redwood (Jamaica) ; red- wood, ridge redwood, swamp redwood (British I Honduras) ; poirier, arabo (Haiti). This genus is represented by 3 additional species of shrubs or small trees, and another species 1 is a low shrub. Jiba (EryfkroxylonbrevipesDG.) ' has nearly stalkless obovate leaves less than 1 inch! long. Raton (E. rotundifoliwm Lunan) has simi-J lar leaves with petioles V%-r/\ nicn l°ng- E- ,ru>fv>i\ Cav. has oblong leaves 2y2-4: inches long, slightly ' thickened, with prominent network of veins. 210 *%J. Natural size. Erythroxylon areolatum L. 211 CALTROP FAMILY (ZYGOPHYLLACEAE) Key to the 2 native species, both illustrated (Nos. 93-94) A. Leaflets mostly 4, sometimes 6; fruits mostly flattened, heart-shaped at apex — 93. Guaiacum officinale. AA. Leaflets mostly 6-10; fruits deeply 5- or 4-angled or winged, pointed at apex — 94. Guaiacum sanctum. 93. Guayacan, common lignumvitae A handsome small evergreen tree with a dense rounded crown and dark green foliage, easily rec- ognized by: (1) light brown bark smoothish and mottled, peeling off in thin scales; (2) opposite even pinnate leaves with mostly 4 or 6 stalkless, oblique, broadly elliptic or obovate leathery leaf- lets; (?>) several to many deep to pale blue flowers with 5 petals minutely hairy on the outer surface, spreading starlike %-% mch across in showy ter- minal and lateral clusters shorter than the leaves; and (4) flattened orange-brown capsules % inch long and broad, heart-shaped and slightly wTinged, attached at narrowed end. A tree 15-30 feet high, with a short trunk 4-18 inches in diameter. The bark scales are 1-2 inches across and upon falling expose smoothish gray- brown spots beneath. Inner bark is light brown and bitter. The green twigs, turning to gray, have enlarged ringed nodes and are much branched and widely forking. Leaves are 1V2~3 inches long, with green axis and at base paired minute hairy scales (stipules) which shed early. Leaflets are %-2 inches long and V^-lVi inches wide, rounded or sometimes blunt -pointed at both base and apex, broadest on the side toward base of leaf, slightly thickened and often turned under at edges, hairless, and dark green or olive green on both sides, slightly shiny above. The lowTest pair of leaflets is at the base of axis beside the twig, while the pair of leaflets at apex is largest. Many pretty, faintly fragrant flowers are clustered together (umbellike) on slender minute- ly hairy stalks %-l inch long. There are 5 broad rounded finely hairy sepals nearly Vi inch long; 5 spreading dee]) to pale blue petals nearly Yj inch long, narrowed at base and rounded at apex, mi- nutely hairy on outer surface; 10 stamens about %6 inch long, with blue filaments and yellow anthers; and stalked pistil 14 inch long, with flat- tened usually 2-celled ovary and pointed style. The flattened capsules minutely pointed at the heart-shaped apex are green when immature, turn- ing orange brown. They split open to discharge 2 or 1 seed V2 inch long, brown with a red fleshy covering (aril). Flowering and fruiting from early spring to fall. The narrow sapwood is pale yellow. Heartwood is dark greenish brown or nearly black. Lignum- vitae is one of the heaviest commercial woods (spe- cific gravity about 1.2-1.3). It is extremely hard, of very fine uniform texture, with highly inter- locked grain, growth rings clearly defined, and characteristic oily feel caused by the unique resin content. The wood is difficult to season and work but takes a fine polish. The heartwood is very 212 Guaiacum officinale L. durable and very resistant to decay. It is very resistant to attack by dry-wood termites, but the sapwood is susceptible. The self-lubricating resinous wood is so valuable that it is sold by weight, though not now of com- mercial importance in Puerto Rico. It is famed for its special use in bearings and bushing blocks for propeller shafts of steamships. It serves also for pulley sheaves, deadeyes, and as a replacement for metal bearings in roller mills. Other uses in- clude bandsaw guides, awning rollers, furniture casters, mallets, bowling balls, and turned nov- elties. Under the name lignumvitae (Latin for wood of life), the extract of this wood formerly was official in medicine as a stimulant and to increase perspiration. Earlier it was thought to be a cure for various diseases, having been introduced in Europe about 1508. Also employed medicinally was guaiac resin, which exudes from bark and sap- wood, reddish brown in color but changing to blue or blue green. The trees occasionally are planted as orna- mentals for the masses of blue flowers, which are rare in the tropics, and for the handsome dark green foliage. However, their growth is slow, so slow that forest plantings in Puerto Rico by the Forest Service have been discontinued in favor o: other species. Bees visit the flowers. Forests, thickets, and pastures in the dry coasta and dry limestone regions of Puerto Rico from Guayama to Cabo Rojo. Also in Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Reported to be nearly exterminated on Virgin Islands except in cultivation. Public forest. — Guanica. MuNdCIPALITTES WHEKE ESPECIALLY COMMON. 12, 66. Range. — West Indies from Bahamas and Great- er Antilles to Martinque in Lesser Antilles and in Bonaire, Curacao, and Aruba. Also in Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, and British Guiana. Plant- ed in southern Florida, Bermuda, Trinidad anc Tobago, Surinam, and elsewhere in tropica America. Other common names. — guayaco (Puerto Rico) ; lignumvitae (Virgin Islands) ; guayacai (Spanish) ; palo santo (Cuba, Venezuela) ; guaya- can negro (Cuba) ; guayacan de playa, guayacan colombiano, guayaco (Colombia) ; lignumvitae, common lignumvitae (United States, English, commerce) ; gai'ac (French, commerce) ; gai'ac franc, gai'c male (Haiti) ; bois saint (Martinique) wayaca, pokhout (Dutch West Indies) ; guaiaco, pau santo (Brazil). The generic name is also spelled Guajacum. 93. Guayacaii, common lignumvitae Two-thirds natural size. Ouaiacum officinale L. 213 CALTROP FAMILY (ZYGOPHYLLACEAE) 94. Guayacan bianco, holywood lignumvitae Guaiacum sanctum L. A small tree of dry areas characterized by : (1) bark deeply fissured vertically ; (2) opposite, even pinnate leaves with mostly 6-10 stalkless, oblique, elliptic or obovate leaflets ending in a mi- nute point, with several veins from base; (3) blue flowers % inch across the 5 spreading hairless petals, usually a few in terminal clusters shorter than tbe leaves; and (4) yellowish or orange cap- sule % inch long, deeply 5- or 4-angled or winged. An evergreen tree 15-30 feet high with short stout trunk 8 inches or more in diameter, and dense round crown of spreading or drooping branches. The light gray bark is rough. Inner bark is light brown and slightly bitter. Sapwood is light yel- low and very hard. The light gray twigs are en- larged at nodes, slightly angled, and green and minutely hairy when young. The leaves 21/r3i/> inches long have paired mi- nute hairy scales (stipules) at base and a green minutely hairy axis. Leaflets are %-l inch long, %-3/4 inch wide, short-pointed at base, rounded and minutely pointed at apex, not toothed on edges, broadest above middle and on the side to- ward base of leaf, slightly thickened and leathery, hairless, and green on both sides. During the hot- test part of the day the paired leaflets often fold together. Flowers are borne on slender minutely hairy stalks %-l inch long attached between the upper- most pair of leaves. There are 5 blunt-pointed slightly hairy sepals 14 inch long; 5 blue petals %6-% inch long, narrowed at base and in part 2-lobed at apex; 10 stamens nearly !/t inch long; and stalked pistil Vi inch long, the ovary with 5 or 4 angles and cells and ending in pointed style. Seed capsules are % inch long and V2 inch across the angles, broadest near the short-pointed apex, containing dark brown or black seeds about % inch long, each with a scarlet fleshy covering (aril). Flowering and fruiting from spring to fall. Sapwood is light yellow and very hard, and heartwood becoming greenish or brown on expo- sure. The wood has clearly defined growth rings, is resinous with a characteristic odor, very hard, very heavy (specific gravity about 1.1), and very durable. It resembles the wood of common lig- numvitae (Guaiacum officinale L.) and has similar uses but is less valuable. Like its relative this species of lignumvitae formerly was official in med- icine for similar purposes. Sometimes planted as a handsome blue-flowered ornamental in Puerto Rico, southern Florida, and elsewhere. In thickets and forests in the dry coastal and dry limestone regions of Puerto Rico from Ponce to Cabo Rojo. Also in Mona. Public forest. — Guanica. Range. — Florida Keys, Bahamas, Cuba, His- paniola, Puerto Rico, and Mona. Also in Mexico (Yucatan), Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicara- gua. Recorded from Bonaire, Curasao, and Aruba, perhaps in cultivation. Planted in south- ern Florida, Trinidad, and elsewhere in tropical America. (The botanical type specimen came from Puerto Rico.) Other common names. — guayacan de vera, guayacancillo (Puerto Rico); vera, guayacan- cillo (Dominican Republic, Cuba) ; guayacan bianco (Cuba) ; guayacan (Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua) ; palo santo (Mexico) ; holywood lignumvitae, roughbark lignumvitae, lignumvitae (United States) ; lignumvitae (English, com- merce) ; bois saint, gaiac blanc, gaiac femelle (Haiti) ; wayaka shimaron, beera, boeloebarie, wa- jakaa maatsjoe (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Guaiacum guatemalense Planch. 214 M. Guayacan bianco, holywoocl lignumvitae Natural size. Guaiacum sanctum L. 687-921 0—64 15 215 RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) Key to the 9 species illustrated (Nos. 95-103) A. Leaves opposite, with usually 3 (sometimes 1 or 5) long-pointed leaflets — 95. Amyris elemifera. AA. Leaves alternate. B. Leaves simple. C. Leaves elliptic, with many minute rounded teeth on margin, petiole usually jointed with blade; flowers large, white; fruit a rounded or elliptic juicy berry (citrus). D. Leaves small, l%-3 inches long; fruit elliptic l%-2% inches long (lime) — 96. Citrus aurantifolia* DD. Leaves and fruit larger. E. Petiole broadly winged. F. Leaves mostly long-pointed at apex; fruit round, roughened, orange, bitter, inedible (sour orange) — 97. Citrus aurantium* FF. Leaves rounded at both ends (or blunt-pointed at apex) ; fruit round, smooth, large, pale yellow grapefruit — 99. Citrus parodist* EE. Petiole almost wingless or narrowly winged. G. Petiole almost wingless ; fruit elliptic, blunt-pointed or tubercled at both ends, the surface often rough and wrinkled, yellow (lemon) — 98. Citrus limon* GG. Petiole narrowly winged ; fruit round, smooth, orange (sweet orange) — 100. Citrus sinensis* CC. Leaves with margin not toothed, sometimes slightly wavy, petiole not jointed with blade; flowers and fruit very small — 103. Zanthoxyhim monophyllum. BB. Leaves pinnate. H. Leaflets 5-9, elliptic, margin without teeth or very finely wavy; not spiny — 101. Zanthoxyhim flavum. HH. Leaflets 7-19, oblong to lance-shaped, margin very finely wavy; spiny — 102. Zanthoxylum martinicense. 95. Tea, sea amyris Amyris elemifera L. A small tree or shrub characterized by : ( 1 ) dense rounded crown of compact pale green foli- age; (2) opposite compound leaves with usually 3 (sometimes 1 or 5) ovate or lance-shaped, long- pointed leaflets l-21/o inches long and y^-V-fa inches broad, slightly leathery, slightly shiny yel- low green, and with many gland dots; (3) many small, greenish-white, 4-parted, spreading flowers about %6 inch across; (4) many small round black fruits about V4 inch in diameter; and (5) twigs, leaves, and fruits with slight citrus odor when crushed. An evergreen tree commonly 10-20 feet high and 3-6 inches in trunk diameter. The bark is smooth- ish and gray, becoming rough with deep furrows and rectangular plates. Inner bark light brown, with slight citrus spicy taste. The twigs are yel- low green when young, becoming gray. The leaves are 2— 4 inches long. The leaflets, on slender stalks Vg-1^ inch long, are short-pointed or rounded at base, the edges without teeth or minutely wavy. Flower clusters (panicles) are terminal and lat- eral, much branched, 11^-2 inches long and broad. The short-stalked flowers have a minute 4-lobed calyx; 4 gland-dotted spreading petals; 8 sta- mens; and pistil of 1-celled ovary and broad stigma. The fruits (drupes) are covered with a bloom, gland-dotted, with thin flesh and 1 brown seed. Flowering and fruiting irregularly during the year, recorded in flower from March to October. The sapwood is whitish, and the heart wood light yellow. The wood is very resinous with strong odor, very hard, fine-grained, heavy (specific grav- ity 1.0-1.1), and strong. It takes a good polish, is very durable, and definitely repellent to dry-wood termites. Used chiefly for posts in Puerto Rico. For- merly also employed for furniture and fuel. If available in quantities and larger size, the wood might be valuable. As common names in different languages indicate, torches are made from the resinous wood. The tree yields a fragrant resin. Widely distributed in thickets of the dry lime- stone and dry coastal regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Desecheo, Icacos, Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. Jolm, and Anegada. On Mona the species is becoming less common owing to extensive browsing of its bark by goats. Public forests. — Guajataca, Guaniea, Susua. Municipalities where especially common. — 26, 28, 55, 75. Range. — Central and southern Florida includ- ing Florida Keys, Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, His- paniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, and Lesser Antilles from St. Martin to St. Vincent, Grenadines, and Grenada. Also Central America in Guatemala, British Honduras, Honduras, and El Salvador. Reported from Venezuela, appar- ently in error. Other common names. — cuabilla (Puerto Rico) ; candlewood, torchwood (Virgin Islands) ; guaconejo, palo de tea (Dominican Republic) ; cuabilla, cuaba decosta (Cuba) ; chilillo, pimienta, taray (Honduras) ; roldan, melon (El Salavdor) sea amyris, torchwood, candlewood (Unitec States) ; white torch (Bahamas) ; amyris-wood, torchwood (Jamaica) ; waiki-pine (British Hon- duras) ; bois chandelle (French) ; bois chandelle blanc, bois pini, bois flambeau (Guadeloupe). The Spanish name tea means torch. This is not the shrub called tea in English. Teilla (Amyris balsamifera L.), a related spe- cies of southwestern Puerto Rico, has 3-7 leaflets and larger elliptic fruits V4-V2 inch long. 216 95. Tea, sea amyris Natural size. Amyris elemifera L. 217 96. Limon agrio, lime RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) Citrus aurantifolia (L.) Swingle* Several species of citrus (genus Citrus') native in southern Asia are cultivated for their well- known edible fruits. Characteristics for identifi- cation of the group are: (1) aromatic, glandular evergreen shrubs and small trees with distinctive spicy odor and taste of crushed parts; (2) green twigs mostly with sharp brown-tipped green spines Y$-l inch long, single at base of leaves; (3) alternate leathery leaves, green to dark green and mostly elliptic, with many minute rounded teeth on margin and numerous tiny gland dots vis- ible against the light; (4) petiole jointed with blade (except in 1 species) and usually winged; (5) fragrant white (sometimes purplish-tinged) flowers with 4—6 spreading, slightly fleshy, gland- dotted petals %-2 inches across; and (6) rounded or elliptic yellow or orange fruits (berry or hes- peridium), green when immature, composed of an aromatic peeling, 8-15 cells with many pointed juicy sacs, and several to many whitish seeds. Lime is distinguished from the other kinds of citrus fruits by: (1) the small elliptic fruit l1/^- 2V2 inches long and 1-2 inches in diameter, pointed or rounded at apex, smooth, green but turning to greenish yellow, with thin peeling Y1Q inch thick, and with very sour green flesh; (2) small white flowers only V2-I inch across the 4 or 5 petals; and (3) small dull green, elliptic leaves commonly l'ounded or blunt-pointed at apex and with nar- rowly winged petioles. An evergreen aromatic and glandular shrub or small tree to 20 feet high, with irregular branches. The brown bark is smoothish, inner bark pale yel- low and bitter. The green to dark green twigs, angled when young, have short sharp spines, us- ually !/s-% inch long, green and tipped with brown, solitary at base of the alternate leaves. The green petioles %-%. inch long are jointed with blade. The small thick and leathery blade is iy2-3 inches long and %-l% inches wide, some- times to 4 inches long and 214 inches broad, round- ed at base, the edges with many minute rounded teeth, and with numerous tiny gland dots visible against the light, Upper surface is dull green, and lower surface is dull light green. Flowers, only slightly fragrant, are produced in clusters of 2-7 on short stalks at base of a leaf. The white saucer-shaped calyx is about %6 inch across and less than i/8 inch high, with 4 or 5 teeth; 4 or 5 white oblong gland-dotted petals about 1/0 inch long; 20-25 white stamens Vi inch long, separate at base, with yellow anthers; and pistil % inch long on a whitish disk, consisting of green rounded ovary with 9-12 cells, stout whitish style, and yellowish rounded stigma. The fruit (berry or hesperidium) has a few whitish elliptic pointed seeds about % inch long, with brownish-red caps at end. Flowering in spring to July, later than the other species of 218 citrus, and maturing fruit in summer and fall. The hard wood with whitish sapwood is little used locally. When pruned back, the plants make a good fence. Also a honey plant. The fruit is picked and shipped green. It is utilized extensively in refreshing drinks and for seasoning foods. The West Indian islands of Montserrat and Dominica produce quantities of lime fruits and lime juice for export. The fruit is the main source of citric acid for the dyeing indus- try and medicinal use, and lime oil is extracted from the rind. The bottled juice, which is rich in vitamin C, has been carried on ships as a means of preventing scurvy. A tea or tonic has been prepared from the leaves. Cultivated and escaping or naturalized, chiefly at low elevations, in Puerto Rico and Mona, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native of East Indian Archipelago but introduced into the New World more than 400 years ago. Widely cultivated and naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions, including south- ern Florida and Florida Keys, West Indies, and from Mexico to South America. Other common names. — West Indian lime (Virgin Islands) ; lima (Spanish) ; lima boba (Dominican Republic) ; limon criollo, lima agria (Cuba) ; lima chica (Mexico) ; limon (Central America) ; lima agria (Venezuela) ; limon sutil (Ecuador) ; limon agrio (Pern) ; lime, West In- dian lime (English) ; lime-leaf -plant (Grena- dines) ; citron (Haiti) ; citron commun (Guade- loupe) ; lamunchi, lemoen (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Citrus lima Lunan. Sweet lime or limon dulce (citron doux in French) apparently is a variation or hybrid of lime or limon agrio and not botanically distinct, though it has been recognized by some authors as a species (Citrus limetta Risso) . It has a rounded greenish-yellow fruit 2i/> inches in diameter, with whitish or greenish-tinged flesh which is slightly sweet or insipid. Sometimes planted as a fruit tree in Puerto Rico and elsewhere in tropical America, though not ranking highly among the citrus fruits because of the weak flavor. Besides the 5 citrus species described and illus- trated here, a few others are less frequently culti- vated. Mandarin orange, tangerine, or mandarina (Citrus reticulata Blanco;* synonym C. ndbilis auth., not Lour.) has orange rounded fruits 2-3 inches in diameter, broader than long, with loose peel and easily separable segments. Pununelo, shaddock, or pomelo {Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck*) has large yellow fruits round or slightly pear-shaped, 5-6 inches in diameter. Citron or cidra (Citrus medica L.*), usually shrubby, has large yellow fruits oblong or elliptic, 5-8 inches long and about 2 inches in diameter, with very thick peel and small pulp. Natural size Citrus aurantifolia (L. ) Swingle RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) 97. Naranja agria, sour orange Citrus aurantium L.* Sour orange differs from the other citrus fruits in: (1) the round orange or reddish-orange fruit 2y2-±V2 inches in diameter, often broader than long, more or less roughened, with thick peeling, and hollow pulpy core, which is bitter and too sour to be edible; (2) strongly fragrant large white flowers with usually 5 petals; and (3) leaves ovate, more or less long-pointed at apex and tapering or rounded at base, the petioles with broad wings %-% inch across. A small aromatic evergreen tree 15-30 feet high, with rounded crown. The bark is brown and smoothish, the inner bark light brown and bitter. Twigs green, angled when young, with sharp spines becoming 1 inch long. Leaves are alternate on petioles %-lV^ inches long. Blades are jointed with petiole, ovate, 21^- 5y2 inches long and \x/<rA inches wide, with many minute rounded teeth at edges, a little leathery, with numerous tiny gland dots, above green and slightly shiny, and beneath pale light green. The leaves have a pleasant scent. There are 1 to few fragrant large white flowers at base of a leaf. Calyx is light green and 4—5- toothed ; usually 5 narrowly oblong white gland- dotted petals about % inch long; 20-24 stamens united into tube in lower half; and pistil on a disk with 9-12-celled ovary, style, and rounded stigma. The fruit (berry or hesperidium) rind, *4-% inch thick, is bitter and aromatic, and the flesh has bitter walls. The whitish seeds are flattened, marked with ridged lines, and about V2 inch long (1,600 to a pound). Flowering throughout the year. The heartwood is whitish to light yellow, hard and fine-grained, with prominent growth rings. It is reported that the wood is like that of sweet orange or china (Citrus sinensis L*) and perhaps is suitable for the same purposes. In Cuba the wood is used to make baseball bats. The peeling with pulp of this species is the prin- cipal source of orange marmalade and is sometimes candied and, when fresh, yields an essential oil. The juice serves for seasoning foods, such as soups and meats, and sometimes as an orangeade drink when sweetened with sugar. A perfume, oil of neroli, is produced in southern Europe from the petals. In home medicines the juice is an anti- septic and hemostatic, and a decoction of the leaves induces sweating. The peel and its oil have been used medicinally as a source of vitamins. This is a honey plant also. Being resistant to the root rot disease of citrus fruits, this species is employed, especially in the United States, as the stock for budding the other species. Cultivated in Puerto Rico and spontaneous after planting and naturalized, chiefly in the lower mountain and moist limestone forest regions. A hybrid or variety of the Seville orange, which has sweet juice, is grown in Puerto Rico also. St. Croix, St. Thomas, and probably others of the Vir- gin Islands. Public forests. — Carite, Guajataca, Luquillo, Rio Abajo, Toro Negro. Range. — Native of southeastern Asia. Widely planted and naturalized in tropical and subtropi- cal regions. Naturalized in southeastern United States (Georgia and Florida), Bermuda, through West Indies, and from Mexico to Argentina. Other common names. — naranja agria, naranja iicida (Spanish) ; naranja cajera (Venezuela) ; naranjo amargo (Argentina) ; sour orange, Seville orange (United States, English) ; bitter orange (Bermuda, Jamaica) ; bigarade orange (Ja- maica) ; orange sure (Haiti) ; orange sure, orange amere, orange grosse-peau (Guadeloupe) ; bois d'oranger, naranga (French Guiana) ; laraha, laraha zier (Dutch West Indies) ; laranja da terra, laranja amarga (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Citrus vulgaris Risso, C. bigaradia Loisel. 220 97. Naranja agria, sour orange Natural size. Citrus aurantium L. 221 RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) 98. Limon de cabro, lemon Lemon is separated from the other kinds of citrus fruits by: (1) the very sour yellow elliptic fruit 21/4-4 inches long and IV2-314 inches in di- ameter, blunt-pointed or tubercled at both ends, and the surface often rough and wrinkled; (2) flowers iy±-2 inches broad with 4 or 5 whitish petals purplish tinged on outside; and (3) leaves with apex pointed and with almost wingless petiole. A small aromatic evergreen tree attaining 10-20 feet in height and 4 inches in trunk diameter or larger, the trunk slightly angled, with long irregu- lar spreading branches. The bark is brown or gray and smooth to finely fissured, the light brown inner bark slightly bitter. The green twigs usu- ally have a short stout spine at base of leaf. The alternate leaves have petioles V4-V2 inch long, jointed with blade. Blades are oblong to elliptic, 2y2-4i1/2 inches long and l1/^— 214 inches wide, short- to long-pointed at apex and rounded at base, with many minute rounded teeth at edges, thick and leathery, and with numerous gland dots. The upper surface is green or dark green and slightly shiny, and the lower surface dull light green. Young leaves are reddish. Flowers are single, paired, or few at base of a leaf, slightly fragrant, some bisexual and some male, the buds reddish or purplish tinged. There is a cuplike 4-5-toothed light green and purplish calyx about V4 mch high and broad; 4 or 5 slightly fleshy, gland-dotted petals % inch long, and curved back on the outer side; 20—40 stamens % inch long with fleshy white filaments slightly united at base and with yellow anthers; and pistil on basal disk with 7-li-celled ovary tapering to the stout style. The fruit (berry or hesperidium) has a thick peeling 1/4-% inch thick and very sour, pale yel- lowish flesh. The elliptic whitish seeds about % inch long are pointed at 1 end. Flowering Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f.* in spring and with fruit in summer and fall. The wood is light brown and hard. The juice is made into lemonade drinks, sweet- ened with sugar and serves to season foods. The fruit is more generally consumed in the United States than in Latin America. In home medicines the juice is antiseptic and arrests bleeding, a de- coction produces sweating, and the root has been employed also. The lime juice of the old sailing vessels, a preventative of scurvy, came partly from this species. Lemon oil, from the fruit peel, is offi- cial in the United States Pharmacopoeia as a flavoring agent. A honey plant. Formerly planted as a fruit tree and naturalized in Puerto Rico, chiefly in the lower mountain and moist limestone forest regions. Also in the Virgin Islands. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Aba jo, Toro Negro. Range. — Perhaps from southeastern Asia, the origin uncertain and perhaps relatively recent, possibly hybrid. Now widely cultivated and natu- ralized in tropical and subtropical regions. Ber- muda, West Indies, and from southern Florida and southern California and Mexico to South America. It is reported that this species was first introduced into the New World at Hispaniola by Columbus in 1493. Other common names. — limon (Spanish) ; limon agrio (Dominican Republic, Mexico) ; limon f ranees, cidra (Cuba) ; limonero (Mexico, Colom- bia) ; limon real (Central America, Ecuador) ; limon comun (Nicaragua) ; limon criollo, limon frances (Venezuela) ; lemon (United States, Eng- lish) ; limon (French) ; citronnier, limon france (Haiti) ; lamoentsji, lamunchi dushi (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Citrus Kmonum Risso. Formerly referred also to Citrus limonia Osbeck, Canton lemon, which is a different Chinese hybrid. 222 98. Liruon de eabro, lemon Natural size. Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f. 223 RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) 99. Toronja, grapefruit Citrus paradisi Macfadyen* Grapefruit is recognized among the citrus fruit trees by: (1) the large round fruit, which is pale yellow at maturity, 31/2-5 inches in diameter, smooth, with flesh usually light yellow, sometimes pink, the taste sweet and acid and bitter combined ; (2) fragrant large white flowers 1-1% inches across the 4 petals ; and (3) leaves elliptic, rounded at both ends (or blunt-pointed at apex) and peti- ole usually broadly winged. A small aromatic evergreen tree becoming 15-20 feet high and 6 inches in trunk diameter, some- times larger, with rounded spreading crown of reg- ular branches. The bark is smooth gray brown, inner bark light yellow and slightly bitter. The green twigs usually have short slender and flexible spines single at nodes, the leaves also alternate. Young twigs and leaves ai*e hairless or nearly so. The petiole is 14-I inch long, the wing 14-V2 inch wide. Blade is 3-6 inches long and l3/4-3 inches wide, jointed to petiole, with many minute rounded teeth at edges, slightly leathery, and with numerous tiny gland dots, above shiny dark green, and beneath dull light green. Flowers are solitary or 2-6 in a lateral cluster (raceme). The cup-shaped calyx is irregularly 5-toothed, about 3/]6 inch high and Vi hieh or more across; there are 4 oblong white fleshy petals % inch or more in length; 20-25 stamens united into tube in lower part ; and pistil on a disk with round 11-14-eelled ovary. The fruit (berry or hesperidium) has a whitish peeling %6-% inch thick. Walls of the flesh are bitter. The numerous whitish elliptic pointed seeds are about V2 inch long. Flowering in the spring and fruiting in the fall, the mature fruits persisting until May. The sapwood is whitish to light yellow, and the heartwood light yellow to yellowish brown. The hard, fine-grained wood with growth rings clearly defined is used chiefly for fuel. Grapefruit, a breakfast favorite, is marketed in Puerto Rico either fresh or as canned sections or juice. The tree is an attractive ornamental and honey plant as well as fruit tree. This is one of the commonest citrus species in Puerto Rico, being grown in plantations, chiefly in the moist coastal region. Formerly it was the most important fruit grown commercially on the island for shipment in fresh form to the United States. Now the plantations are mostly aban- doned because competition destroyed the export market. Scattered trees are to be found in the moist limestone and lower mountain regions. Also in the Virgin Islands. Range. — Apparently of relatively recent origin in cultivation in the West Indies and not found wild in Asia. Planted extensively in subtropical areas of southern United States in Florida, Texas, Arizona, and California. Also grown through West Indies, from Mexico to South America, and in the Old World tropics. Other common names. — toronja (Spanish) ; grapefruit (Central America) ; greifruta (Colom- bia) ; grapefruit (United States, English); cha- deque (Haiti) ; pamplemousse, grapefruit (Guade- loupe) ; grapefruit (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. var. uvicarpa Merr. & Lee. By some authors the grapefruit is placed as a variety of pummelo, shaddock, or pomelo, Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck* (C. maxima (Burm.) Merr., C. decumana (L.) L.). The latter has larger thick-skinned fruits 5-6 inches in diameter or slightly pear-shaped, with the juicy particles large and easily separable, large rough yellowish seeds, larger leaves with broadly winged heart-shaped petioles, and very large flowers. It is thought that grapefruit originated in the West Indies as a mutation of pummelo or possible hybrid of that species with sweet orange. Ap- parently it was first described in 1750 as the for- bidden fruit of Barbados. In 1814 the English name grapefruit first appeared in a Jamaican book, which attributed the derivation to the re- semblance in flavor to the grape. The species was named botanically from Jamaica in 1830. 224 99. Toronja, grapefruit Natural size. Citrus paradisi Macfadyen 225 RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) 100. China, sweet orange Sweet orange, or orange, the best known and most popular of the citrus fruits, is distinguished by : (1) the familiar, usually smooth orange round fruit, mostly 2i/£-31/£ inches in diameter, with sweetish orange-colored flesh; (2) very fragrant white flowers with usually 5 petals about D/i-l1/^ inches across; and (3) leaves oblong to elliptic or ovate, short-pointed or rounded at both ends, and with narrowly winged petiole. An evergreen small tree becoming 20-30 feet tall and 6-10 inches or more in trunk diameter, with rounded crown. The bark is brown and finely fissured, the inner bark yellowish and slightly bit- ter. The light green angled twigs usually have 1 slender sharp spine Vs m°b long at a node. The alternate leaves have a green petiole %-% inch long, jointed to the blade. The leaf blade is 2i/o-6 inches long and l1/^-^1^ inches wide, the edges usually with many minute rounded teeth, slightly leathery and with numerous tiny gland dots, above dark green to yellow green and slightly shiny, and beneath dull light green. Flowers are lateral, 1-6 at base of a leaf. There is a greenish-white broad saucer-shaped calyx 1/g inch high and 5-toothed; usually 5 white elliptic petals y2-7/s inch long, gland-dotted and slightly fleshy, spreading and turned back; 20-25 white stamens V2 inch long with brown anthers, united into ring at base; and on whitish disk a pistil % inch long with 10-13-celled yellow-green rounded ovary, slender style, and rounded stigma. The familiar sweetish orange fruit (berry) has a smooth usually thin peeling less than 14 inch thick, orange at maturity (but the fruit is some- times consumed while still green), and solid center of orange-colored juicy flesh which is sweet or sometimes slightly sour. Seeds are white and wrinkled. The navel orange is a variety distin- guished by the fruit apex not completely covered by the outer rind but with additional small seg- ments or cells and usually is seedless. Flowering in spring and maturing fruits in the fall, but in some areas the fruits may persist on the trees into the following May. Citrus sinensis Osbeck* The wood is light yellow, hard, strong, and tough, and very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Its uses includes canes and various small articles, such as manicure sticks. The orange, with its high vitamin C content, is one of the most popular tropical fruits. Quanti- ties of the sweetish juice are canned in Puerto Rico for export. The peel yields an essential oil when pressed and sometimes is candied. Orange oil is official in the United States Pharmacopoeia as a flavoring agent. Grown extensively as a fruit tree in Puerto Rico, where it is one of the most important fruits and also a good honey plant. The trees are also orna- mental. Found throughout the island but chiefly in coffee plantations in the lower Cordillera and moist limestone regions. Also in Mona, St. Croix, and St. Thomas, and probably others of the Vir- gin Islands. Occasionally escaping from cultiva- tion or naturalized. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Toi*o Negro. MUNICIPALITIES WHERE ESPECIALLY COMMON.- 5, 6, 8, 21, 32, 47, 61, 70, 73. Range. — Probably originally native of China, Vietnam, or other southeastern Asiatic regions but no longer known as truly wild. Widely culti- vated in tropical and subtropical regions, escaping, and becoming naturalized. Bermuda, throughout West Indies, and subtropical United States from Florida to California, south to Argentina. Other common names. — china dulce (Puerto Rico) ; naranja, naranja dulce (Spanish) ; naranja de China (Dominican Republic, Cuba, Nicara- gua) ; naranjo, naranjo comiin, chino dulce (Vene- zuela) ; sweet orange, orange (United States, Eng- lish) ; orange douce (French) ; sinaasappels (Dutch West Indies). The scientifiic name and apparently also the Puerto Rican common name refer to the country of origin. Formerly known as Citrus aurantium L., a name now restricted to the sour orange. 226 100. China, sweet orange Two-thirds natural size. Citrus sinensis Osbeek 227 RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) 101. Aceitillo, yellow-sanders, yellowheart Formerly one of Puerto Rico's most valuable timbers, this now scarce tree is distinguished by: (1) the pinnate leaves with mostly 5-9 nearly stalkless elliptic leaflets rounded or short-pointed at apex and base, the edges without teeth or very finely wavy, and with minute gland dots; (2) trunk and twigs not spiny as in related species; (3) small yellowish 5-parted spreading flowers i/t inch across; and (4) the dry fruits of 1 or 2 dark brown pods Vi inch long. A small to medium-sized deciduous tree 20-50 feet high and 3-16 inches in trunk diameter or a shrub. The bark is smoothish, slightly fissured, light gray, and thin. Inner bark yellowish, with citrus spicy taste. The twigs are stout, gray, and finely gray hairy with minute star-shaped hairs when young. The leaves are alternate and 4-10 inches long. Leaflets are paired except for the end one, 1-3 inches long and Vi-l1/-; inches broad, thin, with minute star-shaped hairs when young but becom- ing almost hairless, and slightly shiny green at maturity. The much branched flower clusters (panicles) are terminal and 2-5 inches long and broad. The many short-stalked fragrant flowers are male and female on different trees (dioecious). Sepals 5, minute, covered with gray star-shaped hail's, petals 5; male flowers with 5 stamens about as long as petals; and female flowers with pistil of mostly 2-lobed 2-celled ovary (or 1-3-celled) and mostly 2-lobed stigma. The fruits are of 1 or 2 stalked pods (follicles), splitting open and containing 1 nearly round shiny black seed % inch long. Flowering mainly with the new leaves or from winter to summer and with fruit from spring to fall. The sapwood is whitish to light yellow, and the heartwood yellow to yellowish brown. The wood is very hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.9), strong, fine-grained, with clearly defined growth rings, and with odor of coconuts or oil. It has a satiny luster, takes a fine polish, and is resistant to attack by dry-wood termites. This beautiful decorative wood has been prized for cabinetmaking, fine furniture, paneling, inlaid work, veneer, and turnery. Other uses are backs of hand mirrors and hairbrushes. Wood figured with wavy grain is converted into veneer for hand- Zanthoxylum flavum Vahl some furniture and paneling. It is reported that Puerto Rico formerly produced the finest West Indian sat in wood, both in quality and color, but exports ceased with exhaustion of the supply. Logs of figured wood commanded very high prices by the cubic foot or by weight. Even the stumps and roots were removed and shipped from Puerto Rico as late as 1920. This species can be planted for shade as well as its fine wood. It is also a honey plant, the flowers attracting bees. Protected forests in the serpentine and dry and moist limestone regions of western Puerto Rico, now rare. Planted experimentally in the Guaja- taca Forest, this species is proving slow growing. Trees 15 years old are scarcely 3 inches in diam- eter. Reported many years ago from Bordeaux Hills, St. John, and possibly now extinct there. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Gua- nica, Maricao. Range. — Lower Florida Keys (nearly extinct), Bermuda, Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and Lesser Antilles from Anguilla to St. Lucia. Also recorded from Bonaire. Other common names. — espinillo (Dominican Republic) ; aceitillo (Cuba) ; yellowheart, satin- wood, yellowheart prickly-ash, yellowwood (Unit- ed States) ; West Indian satinwood, satinwood (English, commerce) ; Jamaican satinwood, yel- low-sanders (Jamaica); noyer, bois noyer (Gua- deloupe) ; kalabarie (Bonaire). Botanical synonym. — Fagara flava (Vahl) Krug & Urban. This genus, whose name frequently is spelled Xanthoxylum, has 2 additional native tree species and 2 of shrubs besides the 3 figured here. An- other species of espino rubial (Zanthoxylum cari- baeum Lam.; synonym Fagara caribaea (Lam.) Krug & Urban) in southern and western Puerto Rico has pinnate leaves with 7-13 elliptic leaflets rounded at apex and with wavy-toothed margins. Alfiler (Zanthoxylum punctatwn Vahl; syno- nym Fagara trifoliata Sw.) , a spiny shrub or small tree of southwestern Puerto Rico, Mona, and St. Croix, has pinnate leaves with obovate or elliptic leaflets, usually 3 or sometimes as many as 7 or even 19, with variable apex, and relatively few small 3-parted floAvers in lateral clusters. 228 101. Aceitillo, yellow-sanders, yellowheart Two-thirds natural size. Zanthoxylum flavum Vahl 229 RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) 102. Espino rubial, white-prickle, Martinique prickly-ash Zanthoxylum martinicense (Lam.) DC. This medium-sized tree is characterized by : (1) the very stout conical spines V^-l inch long and broad on t lie smoothish light gray trunk and usually smaller spines on the twigs; (2) the pin- nate leaves with 7-19 stalkless oblong to lance- shaped leaflets 1V2-5 inches long and V^-l1/^ inches broad, very finely wavy margined, and with mi- nute gland dots; (3) many small greenish-white 5-parted flowers %6 illcn long and broad; and (4) the dry fruits, deeply 5-parted, *4 inch long and 5/16 inch broad, dark brown. An evergreen tree becoming 20-65 feet in height and 18 inches in trunk diameter, with thin spreading crown. The bark is smoothish, light- gray, about VI inch thick, with spines on larger trees becoming 2 inches long and broad. Inner bark brown, with citrus spicy taste and also slightly gritty. The twigs are gray, stout, brittle, minutely bristly hairy when young, usually spiny with many stout gray spines xAq-1/s inch long. The alternate leaves are 6-12 inches long, the axes and midribs finely hairy and often spiny. The leaflets are short-pointed to rounded at apex, slightly oblique at base, thin, upper surface green and hairless, lower surface paler and minutely hairy on veins. Flower clusters (panicles) are terminal and lat- eral, much branched, 2-6 inches long and broad, bearing many almost stalkless flowers, male and female on different trees (dioecious). There are 5 minute sepals; 5 spreading petals; in male flowers 5 stamens longer than petals ; and in female flowers a pistil with deeply 5-lobed 5-celled ovary and 5-lobed stigma. The fruits are deeply 5-parted, each part (follicle) splitting open and with 1 nearly round shiny black seed Vs inch long. Flow- ering and fruiting from spring to fall. The sapwood is whitish, and the heartwood light yellow to light yellowish brown. The wood is of medium weight (specific gravity 0.46), hard, of medium to fine texture, with growth rings clearly defined, but without distinctive figure. It is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites and other insects and is not durable where exposed. The rate of air-seasoning is rapid, but the amount of degrade is considerable. Machining character- istics are as follows : planing, shaping, boring, and mortising are fair; turning and sanding are poor; and resistance to screw splitting is good. Because of the small size of the remaining trees, the wood is seldom used. It is suitable for boxes, crates, general carpentry, low-grade furniture, light construction, concrete forms, and similar uses. This species requires overhead light and grows rapidly. In Trinidad it spreads naturally and vigorously in clearings. It has been grown for shade in Cuba and southern Florida, though the spines may be objectionable for this purpose. Also a honey plant. Widely distributed in the coastal, limestone, and lower mountain forest regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guanica, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Toro Negro, Vega. Municipalities where especially common- 14, 20, 30, 40, 42, 47, 68, 69. Range. — Throughout West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago. Other common names. — cenizo, espino, espin- osa, ayiia (Puerto Rico) ; pino macho (Domini- can Republic) ; ayiia, ay via amarilla, bayua (Cuba) ; prickly-yellow, yellow Hercules (Jamai- ca) ; Martinique prickly-ash (English) ; l'epine gommier (St. Lucia); repine (Dominica); l'epinet (Trinidad) ; yellow-prickle (Tobago) ; bois pine (Haiti) ; lepine jaune, lepuni jaune, lepineux jaune (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; yel- low-prickle (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Fagara martinicensis Lam. 230 102. Espino rubial, white-prickle, Martinique prickly-ash Two-thirds natural size. Zanthoxylum martinicense (Lam.) DC. 687-921 0—64—16 231 RUE FAMILY (RUTACEAE) 103. Palo rubio, yellow-prickle, yellow prickly-ash Zanthoxylum monophyllum (Lam.) P. Wilson An aromatic small tree or shrub, generally with spiny twigs and trunk, further characterized by : (1) short-stalked simple leaves with elliptic blades 114—4 inches long and V&~2 inches broad, or some- times larger, usually short-pointed at both ends, with numerous minute gland dots, slightly spicy when crushed; (2) many small whitish 5-parted flowers about %6 inch across in terminal or lateral branching clusters 1-2 inches long; and (3) 1-3 rounded light green fruits %6 inch long from a flower, each splitting open to release 1 rounded shiny black seed. The simple leaves (or single leaflets) easily distinguish this from other species of the genus, which have pinnate leaves. A deciduous tree attaining 15-25 feet in height, or shrubby, with spreading crown. The gray to brown bark is smoothish with vertical fissures, often bearing many stout pyramidal spines V2_3/4 inch high and 1 inch or more in vertical length along the trunk. Inner bark is deep yellow, with a bitter spicy taste. The green twigs, becoming brown, frequently have scattered stout spines Vs inch or more in length. The alternate leaves have slender petioles ^-^ inch long. Blades are slightly thickened, the edges sometimes slightly wavy, hairless, green and slightly shiny above and paler beneath. Branches of the flower cluster (panicle) often are minutely hairy when young. Flowers appar- ently are mostly male and female on different trees (dioecious) . Female flowers have 5 minute pointed sepals, 5 narrow white petals less than Vs inch long, and pistil more than y1G inch long with deep- ly 2- or 3-lobed, 2- or 3-celled ovary and 2 or 3 styles. Male flowers have 5 stamens about as long as petals. From each female flower are formed 1-3 rounded podlike fruits (follicles) longer than broad, each covered with tiny gland dots and 1 -seeded. The sapwood is light yellow and the heartwood dark brown. The wood is very hard, heavy (spe- cific gravity 0.76), tough, fine-textured, and has growth rings. It takes a good polish but is sel- dom used because of the small size of the trees. Distributed chiefly in western Puerto Rico in the coastal and limestone forest regions. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Public forests. — Guanica, Susua. Municipalities where especially common. — J 12, 36, 38. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, and Lesser Antilles from Montserrat to j St, Lucia and Barbados and in Trinidad, Bonaire, and Curacao. Also in Venezuela, Colombia, and. Costa Rica. Other common names. — enrubio, espino, mapu- rito, espino rubial, espino bianco, carubio, rubia (Puerto Rico) ; yellow-prickly (Virgin Islands) ; pino macho (Dominican Republic) ; lagarto, la- garto negro, lagarto amarillo (Costa Rica) ; bosii, bosua, concha de paneque, paneque (Venezuela); yellow prickly-ash (English) ; yellow harklis (Barbados); lepuni jaune, lepine jaune, bois noyer (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; bossoea, kau- baati (Dutch West Indies). Botanical synonym. — Fagara monophylla Lam. 232 103. Palo rubio, yellow-prickle, yellow prickly-ash Natural size. Zanthoxylum monophyllum (Lam.) P. Wilson 233 AILANTHUS FAMILY (SIMAROUBACEAE) 104. Guarema, bitterbush Picramnia pentandra Sw. A small slender tree or shrub characterized by : (1) the showy or ornamental red or scarlet fruits %-% inch long, in grapelike terminal clusters, turning to black; (2) leaves with 5-9 elliptic to ovate, mostly long-pointed leaflets l1/^-^ inches long and 1-2 inches broad; (3) minute green and reddish-tinged 5-parted flowers Vs mch long and broad; and (4) the leaves, gray twigs, bark, fruits, and seeds very bitter. An evergreen tree or shrub to 20 feet high and 4 inches in trunk diameter. Bark on small trunks is gray and smooth. The inner bark is brown and bitter. Young twigs, very young leaves, and flower stalks are covered with minute grayish pressed hairs. The alternate leaves are 5-12 inches long, the axis green or reddish tinged. The leaflets have short stalks Vs inch long and are short-pointed or sometimes oblique at base, not toothed at edges, slightly thickened, almost hairless at maturity, slightly shiny green on upper surface and some- what paler beneath. Male and female flowers are on different trees (dioecious) in branched terminal clusters (pani- cles) 3-7 inches long. The flowers have 5 narrow sepals and 5 narrow petals about Vie inch long. Male flowers have 5 stamens, and female flowers a pistil with 2- or 3-celled ovary and 2 or 3 stigmas. Berrylike fruits, borne on slender red stalks, are round to elliptic, %-% inch long, somewhat juicy inside, with 1-3 shiny brown seeds 1/4-% hich long. Flowers and fruits produced nearly through the year. The whitish, hard, heavy wood is little used in Puerto Rico, because the trees are too small. The leaves and bark have been employed medic- inally in Cuba against fevers. In southern Florida and Cuba the small trees have been grown as hardy ornamentals. A honey plant. In secondary forests in the coastal and limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Tortola and re- ported from St. Thomas. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guanica, Rio Abajo. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica (?), Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Tortola, St. Martin, St. Barthe- lemy, Antigua, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Dom- inica, Martinique, St. Lucia, and Tobago. Also in Colombia and Venezuela. Other common names. — hueso (Puerto Rico) ; aguedita, palo de peje, palo de pez (Dominican Republic) ; aguedita, roble agalla, quina del pais (Cuba) ; bitterbush, Florida bitterbush (United States) ; doctor-bar (Tobago) ; bois poison, vail- lant garcon (Haiti) ; bois poison, bois montagne (Guadeloupe) ; wild-coffee (Dutch West Indies). 234 ^04. Guarema, bitterbush Natural size. Picramnia pentandra Sw. 235 BURSERA FAMILY (BURSERACEAE) Key to the 3 native species, all illustrated (Nos. 105-107) A. Leaflets asymmetrical at base, less than 3 inches long ; flowers 5-parted — 105. Bursera simaruba. AA. Leaflets symmetrical at base, 2% -7 inches long. B. Leaflets short-pointed or rounded at both ends ; flowers 3-parted — 106. Dacryodes excelsa. BB. Leaflets long-pointed at apex, short-pointed at base; flowers 4-parted — 107. Tetragastris balsamifera. 105. Almacigo, turpentine-tree, gumbo-limbo This spreading aromatic tree is easily recog- nized by the smooth reddish-brown or copper- colored bark, which peels off in papery flakes and exposes the greenish-brown layer beneath. Other distinguishing characteristics are: (1) a grayish resin with taste like turpentine which exudes from cuts in the bark; (2) the slightly pungent or tur- pentine odor of crushed leaves and fruits and cut twigs; (3) the pinnate leaves with 5 or 7 (some- times 3) oblong to ovate leaflets 1V4-3 inches long, abruptly short-pointed at apex and broad and oblique at base, and (4) the many small whitish or yellowish-green 5-parted flowers about %6 inch across. A medium-sized deciduous tree 20-40 feet high with relatively thick trunk 1-2 feet or more in di- ameter, large spreading crooked branches, and thin foliage. The bark is about Va inc*b thick, the inner bark whitish or reddish, soft, and almost tasteless. Twigs are brownish green, becoming light brown. Leaves are alternate and 4-8 inches long. The leaflets are paired except for the end one, short - stalked, oblong to ovate, %-l^ inches broad, slightly thickened, edges not toothed, mostly hair- less, green or dark green and slightly shiny above, and paler beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) are terminal and lat- eral, branched and narrow, and 2-6 inches long. The flowers on slender, usually short stalks are mostly male and female on different trees or some flowers bisexual (polygamous). Calyx is 5-toothed; petals 5; stamens 10; and pistil with 3-celled ovary, short style, and 3-lobed stigma. The fruits (drupelike) are diamond-shaped, slightly 3-angled, pointed at both ends, about i/2 inch long and 5/16 inch broad, dark pink, splitting into 3 parts, with usually one 3-angled whitish seed % inch long. Flowers and fruits appearing usual- ly in spring before or with the new leaves, some- times in summer. Both sapwood and heartwood are a uniform cream to light brown color, though turning bluish gray because of sap-staining. The wood is light- weight (specific gravity 0.29), fine-textured, soft, weak, with strong odor, the growth rings absent or indistinct. It is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites and other insects and is very perishable. Sap stain develops in freshly cut logs unless milled immediately and the lumber is dipped in an antistain solution before piling. Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is minor. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing and sanding are good ; shaping, turning, 236 Bursera simaruba (L.) Sarg. and mortising are very poor; boring is poor; and resistance to screw splitting is excellent. The wood is suited for boxes, crates, cement forms, interior carpentry, light construction, fire- wood, and charcoal. Other products made else- where are matches, match boxes, toothpicks, and utility plywood. The aromatic resin known as Chibou, Cachibou resin, or Gomart resin, has been employed in do- mestic medicines and as glue, varnish, coating for canoes, and incense. A tea substitute has been pre- pared from the leaves. The trees are used in Puerto Rico chiefly for liv- ing fenceposts, being easily propagated from cut- tings and posts. They are also planted along road- sides and in hedges and can serve also as living telegraph poles. Because of the attractive colored bark, the trees have been planted as ornamentals in dry soils of southern Florida, where they are also native. Native to the soils derived from limestone in Puerto Rico but seen as a fence row and roadside tree in the coastal and lower mountain regions. Also in Mona, Desecheo, Icacos, Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. A few trees of this species in the thorn scrub at the eastern end of St. Croix are the easternmost trees in United States territory. Public forests. — Aguirre, Cambalache, Guaja- taca, Guanica, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — ] 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 28, 32, 36, 38, 44,54,55,61,66,68,75. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys and almost throughout West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago and Curacao and Aruba. Also from Mexico to Colom- bia, Venezuela, and British Guiana. Other common names. — West-Indian-birch, gommier (Virgin Islands) ; almacigo (Spanish, commerce) ; indio desnudo (Spanish) ; almacigo bianco, almacigo Colorado (Dominican Republic) ; almacigo. almacigo Colorado (Cuba) ; mulato, palo mulato, chaca, palo retinto (Mexico) ; jiote, palo jiote (Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salva- dor) ; chino, chinacahuite, palo chino, chaca, chic- chica, palo pulato (Guatemala) ; chinacuite, jene- quite, chino, palo chino, copon, palo mulato, torch- wood (Honduras) ; jinocuabo, jinicuite (Nica- ragua) ; jiiiote, carafia, jinocuavo (Costa Rica) ; almacigo, carate (Panama) ; almacigo, caratero, guaeimo, resbalo mono (Colombia) ; jobo pelon, carana, pellejo de indio, mara, cucheme, palo de )5. Almacigo, turpentine-tree, gumbo-limbo Two-thirds natural size. Bursera simaruba (L.) Sarg. 237 incienso (Venezuela) ; gumbo-limbo (United States, commerce) ; gum-elemi, West-Indian-birch (United States) ; gumtree (Bahamas) ; red-birch, West-Indian-birch, turpentine-tree, incense-tree, mastic-tree (Jamaica) ; gommier maudit (St. Lucia) ; gomme mombin (Grenada) ; birch-gum (Barbados) ; turpentine-tree (Grenadines) ; peel- ing-bark gommier, naked-Indian, Indien nue, dry- land gommier (Trinidad) ; naked-boy (Tobago) ; birch, red gombo-limbo, hukup, chaca, palo chino, palo jiote (British Honduras) ; chioue, gommier blanc (Haiti) ; gommier rouge (Guadeloupe, Mar- tinque) ; gommier, gommier barriere (Guade- loupe) ; paaloe sieja doesji, paaloe sieja maatsjoe, sieja blanko, gumtree, balsam-tree (Dutch West Indies) . Botanical synonyms. — Bursera gummifera L., B. ovaUfolki (Schlecht.) Engler, Elaphrium siinaruba (L.) Rose. The English name gumbo-limbo is a corruption of the Spanish name goma elemi meaning gum resin. BURSERA FAMILY (BURSERACEAE) 106. Tabonuco Usually a very large erect tree, rising above the forest canopy and distinguished at a distance on the mountainsides by its size and dark green foli- age. Tabonuco is further recognized by : ( 1 ) the smooth whitish bark, peeling off in thick flakes and exuding streaks of fragrant whitish resin from cuts; (2) the pinnate leaves with 5-7 elliptic leaf- lets 2i/2-5 inches long and 1V4-3 inches broad, pro- ducing characteristic fragrance when crushed ; and (3) oblong fleshy brown fruits 1 inch long and V2 inch broad. Because of its abundance, size, and good form, this was one of the most valuable trees of Puerto Rico's original mountain forests. Tabonuco reaches 100 feet or more in height, is evergreen, and has an elongated crown. Britton and Wilson in their flora called it "the most ma- jestic tree" of Puerto Rico. The trunk becomes 3-5 feet or more in diameter and is slightly en- larged at the base, sometimes with short broad buttresses giving the appearance of an elephant's foot. The bark is thin (about V4 inch thick) and reddish brown on rapid-growing young trees. The resin, which is an amber liquid when fresh and be- comes white and hard after exposure to the air, is inflammable. The inner bark is brown, gritty, and has a turpentine taste. Twigs are brown and slightly warty. Leaves are alternate and 6-10 inches long. The short-stalked leaflets, paired except for the end one, are elliptic, short-pointed or rounded at apex and base, not toothed on edges, slightly thickened, hairless, dark green on upper surface, and green beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) are lateral and much branched, 3-8 inches long. The small greenish flowers about %6 inch across are male and female on different trees (dioecious). Calyx is cup- shaped, 3-toothed ; petals 3, less than y8 inch long, spreading; stamens 6, short, inserted at base of thick disk ; and pistil of female flowers with ovary, short style, and stigma. The fruit (drupe) resembles an olive and is 1- seeded. Flowering and fruiting nearly through 238 Dacryodes excelsa Vahl the year, but most fruits produced from July to October. The narrow sapwood is grayish, and the heart- wood uniform brown with pinkish cast when first cut, turning pinkish brown when seasoned and later lustrous brown when exposed. The wood is moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.53), mod- erately hard, tough, and strong, of fine to medium uniform texture, with roey and interlocked grain and ripple marks, lacking growth rings, and with high luster. It is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites and is only slightly resistant to decay. Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is minor. Machining charac- teristics are as follows: planing, shaping, mor- tising, sanding, and resistance to screw splitting are good ; and turning and boring are fair. The wood cuts and saws easily but rapidly dulls saws and other tools. It stains well, finishes beauti- fully with varnish or lacquer, and resembles mahogany. Tabonuco has been utilized in Puerto Rico more because of its availability in quantity and in large sizes than because of its wood quality. It is ex- tensively used as a substitute for mahogany in furniture. Besides all types of furniture, it serves for cabinetwork, interior trim, general construc- tion, carpentry, and vehicle and truck bodies. Elsewhere it is made into crates, boxes, shingles, and small boats. The wood should be suitable also for soft-drink cases, fruit and vegetable con- tainers, and decorative veneer. The Caribs of Dominica still hollow the trunks into dugout canoes, one of which was found washed on the eastern shore of Mona Island in 1953. The resin was formerly widely employed for torches, as in- cense in religious ceremonies, to calk boats, and for medicinal purposes. Because of the limitations of the wood, the dif- ficulty of successfully transplanting seedlings bare-rooted, and the mediocre growth rate off forest trees, efforts by the government to increase tabonuco artificially in the public forests have been abandoned. On the other hand, young trees 106. Tabonueo Two-thirds natural size. Dacryodcs cxcelsa Vahl 239 which appear naturally within the public forests in some places are being protected and cared for. Formerly distributed widely in the lower Lu- quillo and lower Cordillera forests, where it was the dominant tree. Because this species does not readily reinvade open or cutover areas, it has dis- appeared from all but the least disturbed forests. Now chiefly limited to the remaining virgin or protected rain forest of the lower slopes of the Luquillo Mountains but also remaining in several smaller isolated areas in the lower Cordillera. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 10, 27, 52, 58, 64, 70. Range. — Puerto Rico and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to Grenada. Other common names. — gommier blanc (Do- minica) ; candlewood (English) ; gommier (com- merce, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and Grenada) ; grommier blanc, gommier montagne, bois cochon (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; gommier, gommier a canot (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonyms. — Daeryodes heocandra (Hamilt,) Griseb., Pachylobus hexandrus (Hamilt.) Engler. 107. Masa BURSERA FAMILY (BURSERACEAE) Tetragastris balsamifera (Sw.) Kuntze This large tree is characterized by: (1) pinnate leaves with 5-9 (commonly 7) lanceolate to ellip- tic, abruptly short-pointed, dark green leaflets 3-7 inches long, in pairs except for end one, long- pointed at apex, short-pointed and symmetrical at the base, fragrant when crushed, and with promi- nent translucent venation; (2) several to many small, 4-lobed, whitish and greenish flowers about %6 inch long are borne in terminal and lateral clusters; and (3) rounded fruits %~1 inch in di- ameter in grapelike clusters. An evergreen tree attaining 50-80 feet in height and 1-1 V2 ^eet in trunk diameter. Bark smooth- ish, slightly fissured or flaky, and gray, the inner bark brown and bitter. Twigs stout, gray brown, finely hairy when young. The alternate leaves are 7-18 inches long. The leaflets have stalks Vi inch long (end one to 1 inch) and blades 3-7 inches long and iy^-2% inches broad, not toothed on edges, slightly thickened, dark green and slightly shiny above, paler and with raised veins beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) are terminal and lat- eral, branched, 2-7 inches long. The slightly fra- grant small flowers are male and female on differ- ent trees or some flowers containing both sexes (polygamous). Calyx is 4-lobed, greenish; co- rolla 4-lobed, whitish, brown tinged, the lobes not- spreading; stamens 8; and pistil with 4-celled ovary, short style, and 4-lobed stigma. Fruits (drupes) are 2-4-celled, with 2 seeds in each cell. Flowering and fruiting throughout the year. The sap wood is whitish, becoming yellowish brown, while the heartwood is light reddish brown, becoming orange brown with darker streaks. The wTood is heavy (specific gravity 0.63), hard, tough, strong, of uniformly fine texture, of irregular to very roey grain, with indistinct growth layers, and fragrant, Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is minor. Machining charac- teristics are as follows : planing and resistance to screw splitting are fair; shaping, turning, boring, and sanding are good; and mortising is excellent. The wood is susceptible to attack by dry-wood ter- mites but generally durable to very durable in con- tact with the ground. In Puerto Rico the wood is used for furniture, cabinetwork, paneling, interior construction, and oars. It is suitable also for millwork, light and heavy construction, and flooring. Now it is not sufficiently common in large sizes to be an impor- tant timber locally. However, the species regen- erates readily in the forest, grows rapidly, and is of good form, and therefore may become import- ant. Found in little-disturbed forest in the lower mountain, moist limestone, and moist and dry coastal regions of Puerto Rico. Also St. Croix. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guanica, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 14, 30, 49, 60. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, and Guadeloupe. Reported from Cuba, probably in error. Other common names. — palo de aceite (Puerto Rico) ; abey, amacey, abey hembra (Dominican Re- public) ; bois cochon (Haiti) ; gommier, gommier encens (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonyms. — Hedwigia balsamifera Sw., Tetragastris balsamifera var. lanceifolia Swart. 240 107. Masa Two-thirds natural size. Tetragastris balswmifera (Sw.) Kuntze 241 MAHOGANY FAMILY (MELIACEAE) Key to the 7 species illustrated (No®. 108-114) A. Leaves bipinnate, leaflets with toothed margins — 110. Mclia azedarach.* AA. Leaves pinnate ; leaflets not toothed. B. Leaflets all paired (even pinnate), asymmetrical. C. Leaflets mostly many, 10 or more. D. Leaflets 10-16 (sometimes 30), veins not sunken; flowers and fruit 5-parted — 108. Cedrela odorata. DD. Leaflets 8-20, veins sunken ; flowers and fruit 4-parted — 109. Guarea trichilioides. CC. Leaflets 4-12. E. Leaflets 2%-6 inches long— 111. Swietenia macrophylla.* EE. Leaflets 1-2% inches long — 112. Swietenia mahagoni.* BB. Leaflets of odd number (odd pinnate) . F. Leaflets 7-21, symmetrical, about equal in size, veins slightly sunken — 113. Trichilia hirta. FF. Leaflets 3 or 5 (sometimes 7), asymmetrical, the end leaflet largest and lowest leaflets smallest; veins much sunken, causing a wrinkled appearance — 114. Trichilia pallida. 108. Cedro hembra, Spanish-cedar Cedrela odorata L. This native tree with valuable aromatic wood is distinguished by : (1) the alternate, long, even pin- nate leaves 1-2 feet or more in length with 10-22 paired lance-shaped, oblong, or ovate leaflets long- pointed at apex and oblique at the rounded or short-pointed base ; (2) many narrow yellow-green flowers V^-% inch long, appearing tubular but with 5 narrow petals, in long loose spreading ter- minal clusters; (3) brown elliptic seed capsules about 1-1% inches long and % inch in diameter, splitting widely into 5 parts and releasing many long-winged seeds; and (4) the odor of garlic in flowers, crushed leaves, and cut twigs, and garlic taste in twigs and bark. A large deciduous tree 40-100 feet high and 1-3 feet in trunk diameter, sometimes with slight but- tresses at base, and with large rounded or tall crown. The gray or brown bark is thick, becom- ing rough and furrowed. Inner bark is light brown to pinkish with bitter taste of garlic. The stout gray-brown twigs have raised brown dots (lenticels) and large prominent rounded leaf scars. The leaves have a greenish-brown round axis bearing the leaflets on slender stalks V8_% inch long. Leaflet blades are 2-6 inches long and 1-21/2 inches wide, slightly curved, not toothed on edges, thin, hairless, green and slightly shiny on upper surface and dull green beneath. The lateral veins, which often are slightly sunken in upper surface, commonly are nearly parallel with midrib for a minute distance at base before forking at a wide angle. The flower clusters (panicles) 6-16 inches long bear many flowers on slender, usually hairless branches. Flowers have a calyx more than x/16 inch long in form of cup, irregularly toothed and split on 1 side, hairless; yellow-green corolla about y16 inch long, appearing tubular but with 5 narrow oblong petals, minutely hairy on outside, united to the disk like a tube ; 5 stamens with filaments at- tached on the narrow columnar disk, shorter than petals ; and also on the disk the pistil Vs inch long including 5-celled ovary, style, and rounded stigma. 242 The woody seed capsule is rounded at both ends. It has a central 5-angled axis with broad apex, to which are attached many long-winged seeds % inch long, about 18,000 per pound. Flowering from June to August, the fruits maturing and remaining on the tree in fall and winter. Sapwood is whitish to light brown, the heart- wood light brown to reddish brown with promi- nent growth rings (semi-ring-porous). The wood resembles mahogany (caoba) but has the charac- teristic fragrant odor of Spanish-cedar (cedro) and a bitter taste. It is soft, lightweight (specific gravity 0.45), strong, easily worked, and takes a smooth polish. It is durable, resistant to dry-wood termites, and not attacked by other insects. Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade is minor. Machining characteristics are as fol- lows : planing, shaping, mortising, and sanding are good ; turning is fair ; and boring is poor. Spanish-cedar or cedro (Cedrela) including 7 or more species with similar woods is widely dis- tributed in the New World from West Indies and Mexico south to Argentina (except Chile). It is the most important timber for local use in tropical xVmerica, the lumber being used extensively for general construction, carpentry, and suitable for many other purposes. This fine cabinet wood is preferred for furniture, cabinetmaking, carpentry, doors and windows, interior trim, shelves, carved figures, etc. Being resistant to insects and aro- matic, the wood is a favorite for chests and ward- robes. Elsewhere it is used also for veneer, ply- wood, and boat parts. In the past, quantities were exported to the United States and other countries for cigarboxes, but now little is used for this pur- pose. Indians made dugout canoes from the trunks and paddles from the wood. The astringent bark has been employed in home remedies. This and related species are commonly grown in tropical America as handsome shade trees along streets and highways, in parks, and pastures, and in plantations of coffee and cacao. Also a honey plant. Because of the valuable wood the native trees of this species have been reduced to scattered remote 108. Cedro hembra, Spanish-cedar Two-thirds natural size. Cedrela odor at a L. 243 areas in Puerto Rico, chiefly in the moist limestone and lower Cordillera forest regions. In the Cor- dillera restricted chiefly to steep rocky areas with soils in the Mucara group or in associated well- drained rocky soils. In a few experiments the native seed has not produced promising forest plantations. Seed from continental America formerly re- garded as a distinct species, cedro espahol or Mexican-cedar (Cedrela mexicana M. J. Roem.), has also been tested in Puerto Rico. Though widely planted in the public forests for timber, most of the trees became chlorotic and died for reasons not understood. Nevertheless, a few trees grew very rapidly. The handsome shade trees commonly seen along roadsides are from imported seed. Public forests. — Carite, Guajataca, Guilarte, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Toro Negro. Range. — Widely distributed in wet forests of low elevations in tropical America. Native ap- parently through West Indies in Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles to Trinidad and Tobago, the range spread by cultivation. Also native in con- tinental tropical America from Mexico (Sinaloa and San Luis Potosi southward)* to Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, and Guianas. Introduced into southern Florida and the Old World. Other common names. — cedro, cedro oloroso, cedro del pais, cedro hembra del pais, cedro mexi- cano, cedro espafiol (Puerto Rico) ; cedro (Span- ish, commerce) ; cedro hembra (Dominican Re- public, Cuba) ; cedro macho (Cuba) ; cedro Colorado, culche (Mexico) ; cedro real (El Salva- dor) ; cedro amargo, cedro bianco, cedro dulce, cedro Colorado, cobano (Costa Rica) ; cedro amargo (Panama) ; cedro bianco, cedro oloroso, cedro caoba, cedro clavel (Colombia) ; cedro amargo, cedro amarillo (Venezuela) ; cedro de Cast ilia (Ecuador) ; cedro Colorado (Peru) ; Spanish-cedar, West-Indies-cedar, Mexican-cedar, Central-American-cedar, South-American - cedar (English); cigarbox - cedar, cigarbox cedrela (United States) ; cedar, Jamaican-cedar, Hon- duras-cedar (Jamaica) ; redcedar, acajou (Domin- ica, Trinidad) ; cigarbox-cedar, cedar (Trinidad) ; redcedar (Tobago); cedar (British Honduras); redcedar, cedar, kurana (British Guiana) ; acajou rouge (French) ; cedre, cedre espagnol (Haiti) ; acajou amer, acajou senti, acajou a muebles, acajou pays (Guadeloupe) ; acajou (Dutch West Indies) ; leli (Curacao) ; ceder (Surinam) ; acaju, cedro vermelho ( Brazil ) . Botanical synonyms. — Cedrela sintenisii C. DC., G. mexicana M. J. Roem. MAHOGANY FAMILY (MELIACEAE) 109. Guaraguao, American muskwood Large tree of moist forests distinguished by: ( 1) a dense crown of large, alternate, even pinnate leaves with 8-20 or more paired, elliptic to oblong, glossy, dark green leaflets, with sunken veins giv- ing a slightly corrugated appearance; (2) the apex of the woody leaf axis continuing to grow like a stem and forming new leaflets at the tip after the other leaflets are mature; (3) many 4-parted greenish-white flowers %-% inch across; and (4) the reddish-brown seed capsules borne in narrow grapelike clusters, nearly round, %-% inch in di- ameter but narrowed at base, covered with many raised dots (lenticels), and splitting into 4 parts, with 4 or fewer reddish seeds. An evergreen tree of the forest canopy 40-75 feet tall, with straight clear trunk (forked low in open grown trees) 1-3 feet, in diameter, a few larger, becoming fluted when large, and with a widely spreading crown. The bark is rough, with many longitudinal fissures, brown with a reddish tinge, thick (% inch or more) . Inner bark is pink- ish and slightly bitter. Twigs are brown and stout, with many raised dots (lenticels). The leaves are 8-24 inches long on stout round brown woody axes. The leaflets, borne on short stalks i/8 inch long, are 5-7 inches long and iy2- 2y2 inches broad, short-pointed at apex and base, 244 Guarea trichilioides L. edges not toothed, slightly thickened, dark green on upper surface and paler beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) are borne laterally, branched but narrow, 4-12 inches long. The nu- merous fragrant short-stalked flowers are spread- ing and minutely hairy. The calyx is 4-lobed; there are 4 hairy petals Vi inch long; white stamen tube V4 inch high with 8 anthers inside top; and pistil %6 inch high on a disk with 4-celled ovary, style, and stigma. The seeds are %-1/& inch long- Flowers and fruit are produced over most of the year. The sapwood is whitish to brownish, and the very attractive heartwood pinkish to red, turning light reddish brown. The wood is of medium weight or moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.51), hard, strong, tough, medium-textured, straight-grained, somewhat brittle, and aromatic when green though odorless when seasoned. Rate of air-seasoning is slow, and amount of degrade is moderate. Machining characteristics are as fol- lows: planing, shaping, turning, mortising, and resistance to screw splitting are good ; boring is fair; and sanding is excellent. The wood is re- sistant to attack by dry-wood termites and is dur- able in the ground. This pretty wood makes fine furniture and cabi- nets, since it resembles mahogany and Spanish- 109. Guaraguao, American muskwood Natural size. Ouarea trichilioides L. 245 cedar and takes a high polish. It is used also for construction, carpentry, implements, and cooper- age. Planted as a hardy small shade tree in southern Florida. Elsewhere the leaves and roots have served in home medicines. This species is one of the commonest trees of moist forests and coffee plantations of Puerto Rico. It regenerates abundantly and withstands forest shade. Trees which come up in coffee plantations are sometimes left until they can be harvested for their wood, although the shade is generally con- sidered too dense for coffee culture. Test planta- tions established by the government show this species to be slower in growth than broadleaf ma- hogany, so the latter has been substituted where adapted. The trees are suitable for shade as well as wood. Distributed throughout the lower mountain, moist limestone, and moist coastal regions of Puerto Rico. Also St. Croix. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Toro Negro, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — 5, 6, 7, 21, 40, 42, 43, 47, 50, 53, 61, 70, 73. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico and St. Croix. Also in Trinidad and from Costa Rica and Panama south to Argentina and Brazil. Introduced in southern Florida. Other common names. — cabinna santa, ca- birma, cedro macho (Dominican Republic); yamao, yamagua (Cuba) ; carbonero, manu (Costa Rica) ; cedro macho (Panama, Colombia) ; trom- pillo (Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia); bilibili, mestizo, trompeto, zambo cedro (Colombia) ; cedro dulce, cedron, cabimbo, shuparai (Vene- zuela) ; fruta de loro (Ecuador) ; latapi, latapi- caspi, atapio, requia (Peru) ; cedrillo (Argen- tina) ; American muskwood (United States) ; red- wood (Trinidad) ; karaba-balli, buck vomit (Brit- ish Guiana); bois rouge (Haiti); bois pistolet (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; bois bale (French Guiana) ; doifiesirie (Surinam) ; gito, cedrohy, atau'ba (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Guarea guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson. Guaraguaillo {Guarea ramiflora Vent.), known also as guaraguao macho, is the other native species of this genus. It is a small tree, common and widely distributed in mountain forests only in Puerto Rico. The pinnate leaves 2-7 inches long have 2-6 long-pointed oblong leaflets 3-8 inches long with prominent veins on both sides. The few flowers borne in lateral clusters are pink. MAHOGANY FAMILY (MELIACEAE) 110. Alelaila, chinaberry Melia azedarach L.* This popular introduced tree, planted for its showy clusters of pale purplish 5-parted spreading flowers and for the shade of its dense, dark green foliage, is further characterized by: (1) leaves twice pinnate (bipinnate), composed of many thin lance-shaped to ovate leaflets 1-2 inches long, which are long-pointed and saw-toothed on the edges (or some lobed) and which has a character- istic bitter taste and pungent odor when crushed; and (2) the clusters of nearly round, yellow poi- sonous fruits about % inch in diameter, conspicu- ous when the tree is leafless. A small to medium-sized deciduous tree becom- ing 20-50 feet tall and 1-2 feet in trunk diameter, with crowded, abruptly spreading branches form- ing a hemispherical or flattened crown. The bark is dark or reddish brown, becoming furrow7ed. Inner bark is whitish, slightly bitter and as- tringent. The twigs are green and hairless or nearly so. The leaves are alternate and 8-16 inches or more in length and may be in part three times pinnate (tripinnate). The numerous short-stalked leaflets are borne in pairs along the slender green branches of the leaf axis but single at the ends. These leaflets are %-% inch broad, with the base short- pointed and mostly 1-sided. They are thin, hair- 246 less or nearly so, and dark green on the upper sur- face and paler below. Branched flower clusters (panicles) 4-10 inches long are laterally attached and long-stalked. The numerous showy fragrant flowers on slender stalks are about % inch long and %-% inch across. There are 5 greenish sepals Vi6 incn long; 5 pale purplish or lilac-colored petals % inch long, nar- row, spreading and slightly turned back; usually 10 stamens on a narrow violet tube %6 inch long; a pale green pistil y16 inch long with disk at base, 3-6-eelled ovary, and long style. The fruits or berries (drupes) are smooth but becoming a little shriveled, and slightly fleshy but with hard stone containing 5 or fewer narrow dark brown seeds 5/16 inch long. These fruits are bitter and have poisonous or narcotic properties. Flow- ering throughout the year in Puerto Rico, and the old slightly wrinkled yellow fruits generally present. The sapwood is yellowish white, and heartwood light brown to reddish brown and attractively marked. The wood is moderately soft, weak and brittle, and very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. In Puerto Rico the wood is used for fuel. Uses of the wood elsewhere include tool handles, cabinets, furniture, and cigarboxes. 110. Alelaila, chinaberry 687-921 0—64 17 Two-thirds natural size. Melia azedarach L. 247 Extensively planted for ornament and shade. This attractive tree is easily propagated from seed and cuttings, sprouts from stumps, and grows rap- idly. However, it is short-lived; and the brittle limbs are easily broken by the wind. This species is poisonous and has insecticidal properties, the leaves and dried fruits having been used to protect stored clothing and other articles against insects. Various parts of the tree, includ- ing fruits, flowers, leaves, bark, and roots, have been employed medicinally in different countries. The berries are toxic to animals and have caused deaths of pigs. An oil suitable for illumination was extracted experimentally from the berries. The hard, angular, bony centers of the fruits, when removed by boiling, are dyed and strung as beads. In parts of Asia this is a sacred tree. In Puerto Rico planted and locally naturalized in the coastal and lower mountain regions. Com- monly planted and escaping in the Virgin Islands. Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native of southern Asia, probably from Iran and Himalaya to China, but culti- vated and naturalized in tropical and subtropical countries over the world. Bermuda and through- out West Indies. Also from southern United States and Mexico south to Argentina and Brazil. Hardy also in warm temperate regions, this tropical species is naturalized in southeastern United States and grows north to Virginia and Oklahoma and west to California. Other common names. — lilaila, pasilla (Puerto Rico) ; lilac (Virgin Islands) ; paraiso (Spanish) ; alilaila, lila, lilayo, violeta (Dominican Republic) ; jacinto (Panama); aleli (Venezuela); flor de paraiso (Peru); chinaberry, chinatree, pride-of- China, pride-of-India, umbrella chinaberry, um- brella-tree (United States) ; hoop-tree, West-In- dian-lilac, bead-tree (Jamaica) ; chinaberry, West- Indian-lilac (Trinidad) ; paradise-tree (British Honduras) ; bias (Haiti) ; lilas, lilas du pays (Guadeloupe) ; lilas des Indes (French Guiana); aleli, anesita, lilac (Dutch West Indies) ; cinna- momo (Brazil). MAHOGANY FAMILY (MELIACEAE) 111. Caoba hondurefia, Honduras mahogany Swietenia macrophylla King* Mahogany, the worlds premier cabinet wood and probably the most valuable timber tree in trop- ical America, was not. originally known from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, but 2 species have been widely planted. Honduras mahogany is recognized by : (1) usually dense crown of shiny green leaves, which are even pinnate and 8-16 inches long with 6-12 paired, unequal-sided leaf- lets 21/^-6 inches long; and (2) erect egg-shaped or pear-shaped seed capsules 41^-7 inches long and about 3 inches in diameter, splitting upward from the base into 5 parts. Leaves and fruits are much larger than in West Indies mahogany (Sivietenia nidhagoni Jacq.). A medium-sized to large deciduous tree 60 feet or more in height with clear, straight, erect trunk to 2 feet or more in diameter, becoming buttressed at base. The bark is rough, deeply fissured into flat scales, light brown, and about V£ inch thick, the inner bark dark reddish and bitter. The stout brown twigs have many raised dots (lenticels). The alternate leaves have a slender round yel- low-green axis ending in a narrow dead point, bearing leaflets on short, stalks less than 14 inch long. Blades are 1-21,4 inches wide, elliptic to ob- long, short-pointed at base and abruptly long- pointed at apex, noticeably broader on side toward axis, not toothed on edges, slightly thickened or leathery, green to dark green and slightly shiny on upper surface, and paler beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) 4-6 inches or more in length at base of new leaves bear many small, 248 short-stalked, fragrant, greenish-yellow flowers nearly i/2 hich across. The light green calyx y16 inch high is 5-toothed; there are 5 oblong, slightly concave, greenish-yellow petals 14 inch long, greenish-yellow stamen tube nearly 14 inch long, bearing inside apex 10 tiny brown stamens between as many teeth; and pistil %6 inch long wit orange-red basal disk, light green rounded celled ovary, style, and broad flattened stigma. A few flowers have parts in 4's. The seed capsules are borne on long stout stalks, thick-walled and heavy, and the large, 5-angled axis remains on the tree. The numerous flat, long- winged, brown seeds are 3-31/2 inches long and %-l inch broad, about 900 to the pound. Flowers borne in May and June, and seeds produced gen- erally in the late fall. The thin sapwood 1-2 inches wide is yellowish white. The heartwood is pinkish when freshly cut, later becoming light reddish brown with a golden luster. The wood is moderately light- weight (specific gravity 0.5-0.6), strong, of medi- um to fine uniform texture, with interlocked grain and attractive figure, and growth layers indistinct. It is one of the easiest woods to work and takes an excellent polish. Rate of air-seasoning is rapid, and amount of degrade very minor except when tension wood is present. Machining characteris- tics are as follows: sanding is excellent; planing, shaping, turning, boring, mortising, and resistance to screw splitting are good. The heartwood is resistant to decay and generally is resistant to at- 11. Caoba hondurena, Honduras mahogany One-half natural size. Swietenia macrophylla King 249 tack by dry-wood termites, but the sapwood is very susceptible to decay and insects. From West Indies mahogany the wood differs in being more open-grained, lighter in weight, and softer. This is one of the commonest woods for furni- ture manufacture and cabinetmaking in Puerto Rico, being imported in large quantities from Mex- ico as rough lumber. Limited amounts of small logs come from local plantations also. Other uses mostly elsewhere include face veneer, interior trim, paneling, burial caskets, interiors of boats and ships, turning, musical instruments, molds, dies, and patternmaking. This species is now much more important com- mercially than West Indies mahogany, because, of its more extensive range in Central and South America and its delayed utilization. British Hon- duras was established as a colony for the prized timbers of mahogany and logwood. Timber ex- ported from other tropical American countries is often designated by the country of origin, for example, Brazilian mahogany. With straight tall trunk and few branches, this is a handsome street and shade tree in tropical countries, also producing valuable timber. The bark is high in tannin content. Also reported to be a honey plant. Planted extensively in the public forests of Puerto Rico and as a shade tree in patios and along roadsides in Puerto Rico and St. Croix and perhaps others of the Virgin Islands. One of the most promising species for forestry on well- drained deep sods in the lower mountain and moist limestone regions of Puerto Rico. It withstands shade, grows rapidly, and produces a tree of good form. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Toro Negro. Range.— Southern Mexico (Oaxaca, Veracruz, Tabasco, and Yucatan Peninsula southward), At- lantic slope of Central America from British Hon- duras to Panama, and in Colombia, Venezuela, and portions of upper Amazon region in Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. Until about 1923 it was not known from the Amazon region, where a large supply of timber occurs in the virgin forests. Introduced into southern Florida, Puerto Rico and Virgin Is- lands, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, India, and other tropical areas. Other common names. — caoba de Honduras (Puerto Rico) ; broadleaf mahogany, bigleaf ma- hogany, Central American mahogany (Virgin Islands); caoba, caoba hondurena (Spanish); chacalte (Guatemala) ; caoba amerieana (Colom- bia) ; aguano (Peru) ; mahogany, Honduras ma- hogany, British Honduras mahogany, Venezuelan mahogany, Peruvian mahogany, Brazilian ma- hogany (United States, English, commerce) ; acajou Amerique (French, commerce) ; mahogany Honduras (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; acajou du Honduras (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonyms. — Swietenia candolM Pittier (caoba venezolana, Venzuelan mahogany), S.belizensis Lundell, S. krukovii Gleason & Pan- shin, 8. tessmannii Harms. What is believed to be a natural hybrid between this and the following species {Swietenia macro- phylla X mahagoni) is found in St. Croix. Where trees of the 2 species have been planted together, some of the seedlings are intermediate in appear- ance. The intermediate is known locally as me- diumleaf mahogany because the leaflet width is be- tween that of the parent species. In preliminary experiments the plants grow rapidly and appar- ently show hybrid vigor. Also, the wood is of high quality like that of the second species. MAHOGANY FAMILY (MELIACEAE) 112. Caoba dominicana, Dominican mahogany, West Indies mahogany West Indies mahogany is commonly planted in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands though not native. This first-discovered species of mahog- any, the world's premier cabinet wood, is easily recognized by: (1) its distinctive leaves, alternate and even pinnate, 4-7 inches long, bearing 4-10 paired shiny green leaflets, ovate to lance-shaped, 1-2^4 inches long and V2~7/s, inch broad, long- pointed and very conspicuously unequal-sided; and (2) the odd, egg-shaped or pear-shaped, dark brown erect seed capsules 2!/>^i inches long and li/2-2 inches in diameter, hard and thick-walled, splitting upward from the base into 5 parts and releasing many flat long-winged seeds. A medium-sized to large deciduous tree with maximum size 40-60 feet in height and 3-41/4 feet Swietenia mahagoni Jacq.* in trunk diameter. The trunk is usually short and has swollen or buttressed base when large, and produces a spreading, much-branched crown. Bark on small trees is smoothish, slightly fissured, and gray, becoming dark reddish brown and scaly on large trunks. The inner bark is pink and bit- ter. Young twigs are pale red, becoming brown- ish gray with many raised dots (lenticels). Leaflets are borne along a slender yellow-green axis on slender stalks less than 14 inch long. These leaflets have the inner or upper edge rounded at base but edges not toothed, are slightly thickened or leathery, shiny green above and paler beneath, and have a reddish-brown midrib. The flower clusters (panicles) are lateral, 2-6 inches long, and branched. Several to many small 250 12. Caoba dominicana, Dominican mahogany, West Indies mahogany Two-thirds natural size. Swietenia mahagoni Jacq. 251 greenish-yellow flowers, 5-parted, spreading, and 14 inch across, are borne on short stalks. There are 5 minute sepals, 5 whitish or yellow spreading petals Vs mcn l°n£i 10 stamens inside a short tube i/8 inch long, and pistil on a disk and composed of a 5-celled ovary, style, and flattened stigma. The fruits are borne on long stalks, and the large 5-angled axis remains attached. The light brown seeds are about 2-21/4 inches long and V2 inch broad, approximately 3,200 to a pound. Flowers are borne mainly from March to July in Puerto Rico, and mature fruits are present chiefly in the winter. The sapwood is whitish or yellowish. The heartwood is reddish, pinkish, or yellowish when freshly cut, gradually turning dark rich reddish brown. The wood is moderately hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.7-0.8), and strong. It is very resistant to decay and to attack by dry-wood ter- mites. The wood is used chiefly for furniture, cabinet- making, interior finish, and veneers, being easily worked and taking a beautiful polish. It formerly was employed in shipbuilding, construction, and for beams. Roots and stumps of large trees are especially prized for their irregular wavy grain. Considered superior in quality and durability to the wood of Honduras mahogany. The astringent bitter bark has been used in medicine. Planted as a street and shade tree because of the attractive spherical crown and dense shade. Often grown in southern Florida where also native. Re- ported to be a honey plant. The oldest surviving use of mahogany by Euro- pean colonists is said to be in the cathedral at Santo Domingo (Ciudad Trujillo), Dominican Republic, completed in 1550. It contains much carved mahogany woodwork still in fine condition after more than four centuries in the tropics and a rough-hewn mahogany cross bearing the date 1514, the year construction was begun. The Do- minican Republic has selected the mahogany flower for its national emblem. West Indies mahogany was introduced into Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands more than 200 years ago. Fine old trees recently cut near Gua- yama on the south coast of Puerto Rico ranged up to 52 inches in trunk diameter, one near Ponce measured 50 inches, and some in St. Croix are more than 50 inches. A number of small plantings were made by Dr. Agustin Stahl near Aguadilla, Toa Alta, and Manati about 50 years ago. More extensive forest plantations have been established on both public and private lands within the past 25 years. This species has proven better adapted to dry rocky sites than Honduras mahogany. Trees 20 years old near San German averaged 5 inches in diameter and 35 feet in height. The abundance of young trees developing beneath and near the plantations may be partly responsible for the popular misconception that the tree is native. Planted also in Mona, St, Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Gua- nica, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua. Range- -Native in southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, and His- paniola. Introduced in Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Bermuda, throughout Lesser Antilles, Trinidad and Tobago, and Curacao, south to South America and elsewhere in tropical regions, and naturalized locally. Other common names. — caoba, caoba de Santo Domingo (Puerto Rico, Spanish) ; small-leaf ma- hogany, mahogany (Virgin Islands) ; caobilla (Cuba) ; West Indies mahogany, West Indian mahogany, mahogany (United States, English, commerce) ; madiera (Bahamas) ; Spanish ma- hogany (St. Vincent, Trinidad and Tobago); acajou (Haiti) ; mahogany petites feuilles (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; mahogany, mahogany du pays, acajou de Saint Domingue (Guade- loupe) ; mahok (Dutch West Indies) ; mahoni (Surinam). MAHOGANY FAMILY (MELIACEAE) 113. Tinacio, broomstick A small tree or shrub of dry areas character- ized by: (1) a rounded crown of dense foliage; (2) alternate pinnate leaves with 7-21 lance- shaped to elliptic leaflets slightly oblique at base with sunken veins above; (3) several to many small greenish-white or pale yellow, 5-parted flowers about %fi inch long and broad in branching clusters at leaf bases; and (4) rounded greenish- brown seed capsules %—% inch in diameter, finely hairy, splitting widely into 3 parts and exposing usually 3 orange-red seeds. Deciduous, 15-20 feet high with trunk 4-6 inches in diameter, elsewhere a tree to 50 feet in height. Trichilia hirta L. The brown or gray bark is rough, fissured and scaly or furrowed, and the whitish inner bark is bitter. The twigs are green and finely hairy when young, becoming brownish. Leaves are 6-12 inches or more in length, the slender round green axis bearing leaflets on short lateral stalks Viq-V^ inch long. Leaflet blades are 1-41/2 inches long and V^-D/a inches wide, bluntly long- or short-pointed at apex, the side toward apex of axis broader at the rounded or short- pointed base, not toothed at edges, thin, above slightly shiny green to dark green, and beneath paler and often slightly hairy. 252 3. Tinacio, broomstick Two-thirds natural size. Trichilia hirta L. 253 The narrow flower clusters (panicles) IV2-? inches long are near ends of twigs, the individual flower stalks about Vs inch long and jointed below middK The slightly fragrant cup-shaped to spreading flowers have a light green minute 5-lobed calyx less than y16 inch long; 5 greenish- white or pale yellow oblong petals 3/16 inch long; 10 stamens Vs inch long, with white hairy filaments flattened and united toward base; and on a yellow disk the light green pistil more, than Vs inch l°ng including rounded hairy 3-celled ovary, style, and rounded stigma. The elliptic seeds are 5/i6 inch long, with fleshy coats. Flowering and fruiting over most of the year. The sapwood is light brown and heart wood red- dish brown with darker veins. The wood is de- scribed as resembling cedro (Cedrela) in color, moderately lightweight (specific gravity 0.5). Heartwood very resistant and sapwood resistant to attack by dry-wood termites. Used chiefly for posts and fuel in Puerto Rico. Broom handles have been made from young stems. In Venezuela oars or paddles (canaletes) were made from the wood, which was recom- mended as suitable for interior finish, furniture, implements, and plywood. Planted for shade and ornament in southern Florida. Also a honey plant. Open forests in the limestone and coastal (chiefly dry coast) regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guanica, Susua. Range.— Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, and Grenadines and Grenada. Also from Mexico and Tres Marias Is- lands to Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, and Venezuela Introduced in southern Florida. Other common names. — cabo de hacha, guaita, retamo, palo de anastasio (Puerto Rico) ; broom wood (Virgin Islands) ; jojoban (Dominican Re public) ; jubaban, cabo de hacha (Cuba) ; cabo de hacha, garbancillo, jumay, mapahuite (Mexico); mapahuite, trompillo, eedrillo, cedro Colorado (Guatemala) ; cedro espino (Honduras) ; cola de payo, jocotillo, eedrillo (El Salvador) ; mata piojo (Nicaragua); eanalete, cazabito, eedrillo, trom- pillo, pan de trigo (Venezuela) ; pata de vaca (Co- lombia) ; gajigua (Ecuador) ; redcedar (British Honduras) ; mombin batard (Haiti) : carrapeta (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Trichilia spondioides Jacq. Bariaco (Trichilia triacantha Urban), called also guayabacon, the third representative of this genus, is known only from the dry southwestern part of Puerto Rico. This shrub or small tree is easily recognized by the spiny tips of the leaflets. The pinnate leaves have 3-7 obovate or wedge- shaped leaflets 1/2~^1A inches long and Vi~% inch wide, broadest at the spiny 3-toothed apex. MAHOGANY FAMILY (MELIACEAE) 114. Gaeta A small tree, recognized by: (1) the alternate pinnate leaves with 3 or 5 (or 7) elliptic leaflets having veins sunken and prominent beneath, caus- ing a wrinkled appearance, the end leaflet largest and others paired and smaller toward base; (2) the few 4-parted spreading greenish-white flowers almost V2 inch across; and (3) the nearly round seed capsules %-V£ inch in diameter, light brown and finely hairy, with 1-3 bright orange-red seeds. Evergreen, commonly 15-30 feet high and 3-6 inches in trunk diameter. Bark on small trunks is dark brown, smooth, with many horizontal dots and lines (lenticels), and the inner bark whitish and bitter. The twigs are light to dark brown, with raised dots (lenticels), hairy when young. The leaves are 4-9 inches long. The leaflets are short-stalked or almost stalkless, 1V2~6 inches long and 3/4-2V<2 inches broad, short-pointed at apex and base, edges often slightly turned down, slightly thickened, dark green or green on upper surface and paler beneath. The small flower clusters (like umbels) are lat- eral at base of leaves, %-lV2 inches long and broad, with slender hairy branches. Flowers are 254 Trichilia pallida Sw. finely hairy and slightly fragrant. Calyx is 4-toothed ; petals 4, V4 inch long, whitish, minutely hairy; stamens 8 on a cup-shaped stamen tube; and pistil with 3- or 2-celled ovary, style, and stigma. The few clustered seed capsules split widely into 3 or 2 parts, releasing elliptic seeds V4 inch long. Flowering and fruiting nearly throughout the year (March to December). The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.7), and fine-textured, the sapwood whitish. Though seldom used because of the small dimensions, the wood is very resistant to attack by dry- wood termites. Usually an understory tree in forests of the lower mountain and moist limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Susua, Toro Negro. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico. Other common names. — ramoncillo, caracolillo (Puerto Rico) : caracoli, palo amargo, almendro, almendrillo (Dominican Republic) ; siguaraya (Cuba) ; bois arada, dombou, Marie- Jeanne (Haiti). -14. Gaeta Two-thirds natural size. Trichilia pallida Sw. 255 MALPIGHIA FAMILY (MALPIGHIACEAE) Key to the 2 species illustrated (Nos. 115-116) A. Leaves thin, turning rich red upon drying, upper surface shiny, midrib lighter in color than blade — 115. Byrsonima coriacea. AA. Leaves leathery, with prominent veins, upper surface slightly shiny, lower surface with larger veins often rusty-red hairy — 116. Byrsonima crassifolia. 115. Maricao A medium-sized tree with a spreading crown, characterized by: (1) opposite elliptic to lance- shaped leaves 2-5 inches long and %-2 inches broad, short-pointed or rounded at apex and short- pointed at base, the midrib notably lighter in color than the thin blade, turning rich red upon drying, a few such leaves on most trees at all times; (2) young twigs and flower stalks covered with fine, rusty-red hairs; (3) flowers showy, yellow, %-% inch across with 5 rounded petals narrowed into long stalks; and (4) the nearly round yellow fruits %-Vsj inch in diameter. An evergreen tree 30-60 feet tall and 1-1 V2 feet or more in trunk diameter. The bark is smoothish, gray, becoming slightly rough and warty and V4-% inch thick. Inner bark is pinkish and bitter. Petioles are V^-Vo inch long. The upper surface of the blades is shiny green and hairless, the lower surface lighter green and often slightly hairy on midrib and near edges, which are not toothed. Flower clusters (racemes) are terminal, 2-4 inches long. The many flowers are borne along the erect flower stalks %-V2 inch long and curved downward when young. The calyx Vs inch long is 5-lobed with 10 oblong glands on outside; 5 petals, yellow, widely spreading, 14 inch long, nearly round but narrowed into long stalks; 10 stamens; and pistil with 3-celled ovary and 3 styles. The flowers are slightly fragrant and attract bees. The juicy fruits (drupes) are broader than long and with a large stone, edible, but with a bitter taste. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The sapwood is gray to reddish brown, and the heartwood is reddish brown with a purplish cast and generally marked by darker stripes with a stippled effect. The wood is moderately hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.64), of fine texture and straight to slightly roey grain, and fairly strong but brittle. Its rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining characteris- tics are as follows: planing, shaping, turning, and sanding are good; boring and mortising are excel- lent ; and resistance to screw splitting is poor. The wood is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood ter- mites and only slightly resistant to decay. Though few trees are large enough to produce lumber, the wood is recommended for fancy furni- ture and cabinetwork, turning, flooring, interior trim, and other decorative uses. It is suitable also for general carpentry, heavy construction, ply- wood, and veneer. Elsewhere it has been made into charcoal. The bark is employed in tanning. The trees are rather ornamental when in flower and suitable for shade but are seldom planted for 256 Byrsonima coriacea (Sw.) DC. these purposes. The seeds are slow to germinate, lying as long as a year on the forest floor before germination. Early growth is rapid. Common in secondary forests and frequently on lands degraded by farming in the lower mountain, moist coastal, and moist limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also in St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Susua, Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 29, 69. Range. — Through West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago. Also from Guianas to Colombia and Panama and south to Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. Other common names. — doncella (Puerto Rico) ; peralejo (Dominican Republic) ; peralejo de pinar (Cuba) ; piginio (Colombia) ; manteco sabanero, manteco, manteco de agua, chaparro de chinche (Venezuela) ; hogberry, locust-tree (Ja- maica) ; indano, indano Colorado (Peru) ; mauricef (Dominica, Grenada) ; bois tan (St. Lucia) ; barka-loeust, locust-berry (Barbados) ; serrette (Grenada, Trinidad) ; rosewood (Tobago) ; hicha (British Guiana) ; bois tan, mauricef (Guade- loupe, Martinique) ; hollyhock (Dutch West In- dies) ; holia, moeleri, sabana kwarie (Surinam) ; pau de cortume, pessegueiro bravo (Brazil). The West Indian tree has been placed in a vari- ety {Byrsonima coriacea (Sw.) DC. var. spicata (Cav.) Niedenzu) often accepted as a species (B. spicata (Cav.) DC). Besides the 2 illustrated here, 4 additional tree species of this genus known also as maricao are native in Puerto Rico. Palo de doncella (Byr- sonima luoida DC; synonym B. cuneata (Turcz) P. Wils.) has small spoon-shaped or obovate leaves %-2 inches long and flowers with white to red petals. Two poorly known, doubtfully distinct, local species described from Guana jibo, near Mayaguez, have yellow petals turning red. They are Byrson- ima ophiticola Small, with obovate leaves less than 2 inches long, and B. horneana Britton & Small, with obovate leaves IV2-31/2 inches long. A distinct species rare in dwarf forests and mountain forests of eastern and central Puerto Rico is almendrillo (Byrsonima wadsioorthii Little) . During the preparation of this book, this species was noted as new and was named in 1953. It has elliptic leaves mostly 1^-3 inches long, slightly thickened, with edges turned under, gray hairy beneath, and flowers with white petals turn- ing pink. 15. Maricao Natural size. Byrsonima coriacea (Sw.) DC. 257 MALPIGHIA FAMILY (MALPIGHIACEAE) 116. Maricao cimarron Byrsonima crassifolia (L.) H. B. K. This small crooked tree or shrub of dry forests is characterized by: (1) opposite, mostly elliptic leaves 2^-5 inches long and 1-2 inches broad, short-pointed at apex and base, leathery and with prominent veins; (2) the young twigs, flower stalks, petioles, and very young leaves covered with fine, rusty-red hairs; (3) the flowers %-% inch across with 5 rounded yellow petals narrowed into long stalks, in terminal clusters on stalks which curve downward; and (4) the nearly round yellow fruits V2 hieh or less in diameter, sour but edible. A small evergreen tree or shrub attaining 15-25 feet in height and 10 inches in trunk diameter, with open, wide spreading crown. The baik is gray ro dark brown, becoming thick and very rough, with irregular large warts. The inner bark, more than % inch thick, is streaked with pink and red, and is bitter. The leaves, with petioles %-% inch long, are variable in shape and size, edges not toothed, upper surface green, slightly shiny, and almost hairless at maturity, and lower surface light green and with larger veins rusty-red hairy or nearly hairless. Flower clusters (racemes) are 3-4 inches long. The many yellow flowers are borne along the erect rusty hairy axis on flower stalks %-1/£ inch long and curved downward, also rusty hairy. The calyx is pale yellow, rusty hairy, %6 inch long, 5-lobed with 10 oblong glands at base outside; the 5 bright yellow petals widely spreading, 1/4~% inch long, nearly round but narrowed into long stalks; 10 pale yellow stamens Vs hieh long; and pale green pistil Vs inch l°ng, including 3-celled ovary with 3 slender styles. The fruits (drupes) are juicy and have a large stone. Flowering and fruiting from spring to fall. The i-eddish-brown wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.7), strong but brittle, and only moder- ately durable. Considered suited for construction, though generally too small, and in other places burned for charcoal. The fruits are eaten raw or cooked or prepared in a drink like lemonade and are consumed by hogs and other animals, domestic and wild. In Mexico and Central America the trees are planted for the fruits, which are larger and different in ap pearance. A light brown dye for cotton textiles is extracted from the fruit rind in Guatemala. Be- cause of their many golden flowers the plants are classed as ornamentals and have been introduced for this purpose in southern Florida. Also re- ported to be honey plants. The bark has been em- ployed for tanning and in home remedies. This species is found chiefly in open forests of the lower Cordillera forest regions in southwestern and western Puerto Rico. Public forest. — Susua. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, St. Martin, Dominica, Barbados, Trinidad, and Cura- sao. Also from southern Mexico to Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, and Guianas. Planted in southern Florida. In some parts of its range, such as the savannas of Cuba and the llanos of Colombia and Venezuela, this tree is a common and characteristic shrubby tree on the grassy plains. Some authors have dis- tinguished varieties of this widely distributed spe- cies whose leaves vary in shape, size, and hairiness. Other common names. — maricao verde, per- alejo, peralejo bianco (Puerto Rico) ; doncela (commerce) ; peralejo, maricao (Dominican Re- public) ; peralejo, peralejo de sabana (Cuba) ; nanche, nance, nance agrio, chi, changugo (Mex- ico) ; nance, nancite (Central America) ; chi, tapal (Guatemala) ; nancito, crabo (Honduras) ; nance verde (El Salvador); wild-cherry (Panama); chaparro, chaparro manteca, yuco, peraleja, noro (Colombia) ; chaparro manteco, chaparro de sa- bana, manteco, manteco merey, manero (Vene- zuela) ; savanna serrette (Trinidad) ; era boo, crapoo, wild craboo (British Honduras) ; huria (British Guiana) ; sabana kwari moeleidan, hori, sabana mango (Surinam). 258 Natural size Byrsonima crassifolia (L.) H. B. K. MILKWORT FAMILY (POLYGALACEAE) 117. Violeta, violet-tree Polygala cowellii (Britton) Blake Native only in Puerto Rico, violeta is well known by the beautiful masses of violet-colored flowers about % inch across, slightly pea-shaped, which cover the tree from February to March or April, generally when leafless. Other distinguish- ing characters are: (1) the elliptic yellow-green leaves 2-5 inches long, slightly thickened and leathery, with a peculiar arrangement of many nearly parallel, slightly raised, thin, lateral veins; and (2) fruit a flattened capsule 1*4-1 1/2 inches long, with 2 rounded wings, 1 large and 1 small. A small to medium-sized deciduous tree 15-40 feet tall with trunk 4-8 inches in diameter, rarely to 65 feet in height and to 2 feet in diameter. The gray bark is smoothish to slightly fissured, inner bark light brown and bitter. The slender, light green twigs are minutely hairy when young. The leaves are alternate on short petioles Vi~% inch long. Leaf blades are 1—21^ inches wide, short-pointed to rounded at both ends, slightly turned under at edges, shiny above and dull be- neath. The flowers appear in profusion when the trees are leafless or before the old leaves are shed, borne on slender stalks in short lateral clusters (ra- cemes). Both calyx and corolla are violet. There are 3 small sepals Vs_%6 inch long and 2 large elliptic sepals (wings) %6 inch long; usually 3 unequal petals about %6 inch long, the central petal keeled and enclosing the stamen tube, and sometimes 2 additional petals ys inch long; 8 stamens nearly 14 inch long, united into a split whitish tube; and pistil consisting of green rounded 2-celled ovary y1G inch long and curved style % inch long. The seed capsule has a large curved or rounded wing lVj-lVk inches long on 1 side and a small wing 1/9 inch long on the other and contains 1 or sometimes 2 hairy seeds %6 inch long, maturing in March or April. The yellow or light brown wood is hard and is little used. The trees are worthy of cultivation as orna- mentals for the very showy flowers. They are evi- dently slow growing. In forests of hillsides and arroyos, mostly in the southern coastal region but scattered also through the moist, limestone and lower Cordillera regions of Puerto Rico. Rare on the limestone hills of the northern coast near Toa Baja, Vega Baja, and Arecibo. Public forest. — Guanica. Range. — Known only from Puerto Rico. Other common names. — arbol de violeta, palo de violeta, palo de tortuga, tortuguero (Puerto Rico) ; Puerto Rican violet-tree (English). Botanical synonym. — Phlebotaenia cowellii Britton. The scientific name honors John Francis Cowell (1852-1915), director of the Botanical Garden of Buffalo, New York, who aided in collecting at Coamo Springs the botanical specimens from which this species was described. Trees are unusual in this genus. The 4 other Puerto Rican species are herbs. 260 .7. Violeta, violet-tree Natural size. Poly gala cowcllii (Britton) Blake 261 SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) Alchornea petioles, C rot on Key to the 12 species illustrated (Nos. 118-129) A. Leaves 3 or more at a node ; nodes with rings — 122. Euphorbia petiolaris. AA. Leaves alternate ; nodes without rings. B. Leaves with 3 main veins from base. C. Leaves with coarsely saw-toothed edges and 2 straight lateral veins from rounded base — 118 latifolia. CC. Leaves with inconspicuously wavy-toothed edges and 2 curved veins from short-pointed base — 119 Alchomeopsis portoricensis. BB. Leaves with 1 main vein or midrib. D. Petiole more than 1 inch long ; leaves in more than 2 rows. E. Leaves with several lateral veins at acute angles to midrib. F. Leaves short-pointed at base, the edges not toothed; tiny dotlike brown scales on twigs, and leaf blades. G. Leaves thick and leathery, short-pointed at both ends, petiole silvery brown — 120. poecilanthus. GG. Leaves slightly thickened, rounded or blunt-pointed at both ends, petiole usually reddish tinged — 126. Hyeronima clusioides. FF. Leaves broad at base, with toothed edges, without scales, mostly hairless. H. Leaves short-pointed at apex and rounded at base — 124. Hippomanc mancinella. HH. Leaves abruptly long-pointed at apex and heart-shaped at. base — 125. Hnra crepitans. EE. Leaves with many straight, parallel lateral veins almost at right angles to midrib — 129. Sapium laurocerasus. DD. Petiole short, less than % inch long ; leaves in 2 rows. I. Leaves broadest beyond middle, often with a few teeth toward apex — 123. Gymnanthes lucida. II. Leaves broadest below or near middle, without teeth. J. Leaves many along slender deciduous twigs and appearing to be pinnate, ovate, 1-3 inches long, on very short petioles % inch long — 127. PhyUanthus acid us* JJ. Leaves several, not appearing to be pinnate, 2-6 inches long, on petioles more than % inch long. K. Leaves widely spaced, lance-shaped, slightly thickened, upper surface slightly shiny — 121. Dry petes glauca. KK. Leaves hanging down, elliptic, thin, upper surface dull green, lower surface pale whitish green — 128. PhyUanthus nobilis. 118. Achiotillo Alchornea latifolia Sw. A widely distributed tree distinguished by: (1) reddish-brown smooth bark; (2) long-petioled large yellow-green elliptic leaves with coarsely saw-toothed edges and 2 prominent, long, straight lateral veins at the rounded base, and short- pointed at apex; (3) many small greenish or yellow - green stalkless flowers, the male on branched lateral axes and the female on un- branched axes of different trees (dioecious) ; and (4) seed capsules % inch in diameter, with 2 long styles, 2-seeded. A medium-sized evergreen spreading tree at- taining 30-50 feet in height and l1/^ fpet hi trunk diameter. The inner bark is whitish and slightly bitter. The brown twigs, greenish and with groups of tiny star-shaped hairs when young, have raised nearly round leaf scars. The alternate leaves have petioles li/t -2V2 inches long and blades 4-7i/> (sometimes to 10) inches long and 2i/2-41/2 inches broad, slightly thickened, and slightly shiny on upper surface. The base has 2-4 small glands, and lower surface has minute tufts of hairs in vein angles and, when young, scat- tered small star-shaped hairs. The flower clusters (spikes) are 2-8 inches long, with groups of tiny star-shaped hail's on the slen- der axes. Male flowers are few together, about Vs inch long and broad, with calyx splitting into 3 or 4 lobes and with 8 or fewer stamens. Female flowers single or paired along a drooping axis have a 4-lobed calyx y16 inch long and pistil with 2-celled ovary less than !/8 inch long and 2 long styles V2~% inch long. Seed capsules are nearly round but slightly flat- tened, dark red when immature but becoming dark brown, the 2 long brown styles breaking off. There are 2 red, tubercled seeds V4 inch long. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The heartwood is light brown, and the sapwood similar or whitish. The wood is fairly soft, moder- ately lightweight (specific gravity 6.39), moder- ately strong for its weight, of medium texture, with straight to slightly wavy grain, and without growth rings. Reddish-brown radial canals ap- pear on the surface as small holes. The rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are moder- ate. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing is good; shaping, turning, boring, and mortising are poor; sanding is very poor; and re- sistance to screw splitting is excellent. The wood is not durable and is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites and other insects. In Puerto Rico the wood is used for posts and fuel. It is suitable for kite sticks and other small bent parts, boxes, crates, toys, temporary cement forms, and utility veneer. With preservative treatment it would serve for light carpentry and some types of exterior construction. This rapidly growing tree has been introduced for shade in southern Florida. Commonest in the mountain forests of Puertc Rico, including the upper mountain regions, buiti 262 118. Achiotillo Two-thirds natural size. 687-021 0—64, 18 Alchornea latifolia Sw. 263 also in the moist limestone and moist coastal re- gions. Growing mainly in openings in the forests and along roadsides where there is plenty of light. Also in Tortola. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 1, 4, 5, 10, 19, 22, 23, 35, 43, 52, 58, 64. Range. — Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and Tortola. Also from southern Mexico to Panama. Planted in southern Florida. Other common names. — palo de cotorra (Puerto Rico) ; aguacatillo (Dominican Republic, Cuba) ; bacona, chote (Cuba) ; palo mujer (Mexico) ; carreton, cajeton (Guatemala) ; canelito (Hon- duras) ; pochote, tambor (El Salvador) ; dove- wood (Jamaica) ; bois crapaud, bois vache (Haiti). SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) 119. Palo de gallina This small to medium-sized tree of mountain forests is recognized by : (1) thin, light or yellow- green, elliptic leaves with 3 prominent veins from base of blade, the midrib and 2 long and curved lateral veins, short-pointed at both ends, and with inconspicuously wavy-toothed edges; (2) numer- ous small greenish or yellow-green flowers borne on very short stalks along slender lateral axes 1-3 together and 1-2 inches long, male and female on different trees (dioecious) ; and (3) brown seed capsules 3/16 inch in diameter, 3-seeded. Distin- guished from achiotillo {Alchornea latifolia Sw.) by the smaller and narrower leaves with few lat- eral veins and with less prominent teeth and by the smaller seed capsules with 3 short styles. A generally erect evergreen tree 20-50 feet in height and to l\/2 feet in trunk diameter. Bark on small trunks is smoothish, slightly fissured, and light gray. Inner bark is brownish, with gritty and slightly bitter taste. The light brown twigs are finely hairy when young. The alternate leaves have slender petioles %-lVi inches long and blades 3-5V2 inches long and l%-2% inches broad, slightly shiny. Alchorneopsis portoricensis Urban The flower clusters (narrow racemes) and flow- ers are minutely hairy. Male flowers 1—4 together have a calyx splitting into 3 or 4 lobes and have 5-8 (usually 6) stamens. Female flowers have a 4-lobed calyx and a pistil composed of a rounded, finely hairy, 3-celled ovary and 3 short styles. The seed capsules have 3 whitish seeds Vs inch long, the surface with irregular ridges. Flowering and fruiting perhaps nearly through the year. The sapwood is soft and whitish, and the heart- wood is pale brown. The wood is moderately soft, lightweight, (specific gravity 0.4-0.5), and perish- able. It does not plane well. Used occasionally for fuel. Forests of the upper and lower mountain regions in the eastern half of Puerto Rico. A light- demanding tree generally found in openings in the forest, and often in or beside swampy areas. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo, Toro Negro Range. — Hispaniola and Puerto Rico. Other common name. — palo de gallina (Do- minican Republic) . 264 119. Palo de gallina Two-thirds natural size. Alohorneopsis portoricensis Urban 265 120. Sabinon SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) Croton poecilanthus Urban This tree with watery latex, confined to the east- ern mountains of Puerto Rico, is distinguished by : ( 1 ) lower surface of leaves, petioles, young1 twigs, flower stalks, flowers and fruits silvery green or brown, being covered with tiny round silvery- brown scales; (2) the leaves elliptic, thick and leathery, 3-7 inches long and 2-3 inches wide, short-pointed at both ends, the upper surface green to dark green, and slightly shiny; and (3) the many small silvery-brown male and female flowers almost stalkless on a terminal axis 3-7 inches long. A small or medium-sized evergreen tree attain- ing 20-40 feet in height and 10 inches in trunk di- ameter, with irregular spreading crown. The bark is smoothish and minutely fissured or warty, gray or brown. Inner bark is pink, slightly bitter with a burning taste. There is a small amount of whitish watery or nearly transparent latex. The leaves are alternate on petioles %-2 inches long, the blades not toothed on edges. The flower clusters (racemes) have all male flowers, or also a few female flowers at base, or all female flowers (monoecious). Male flowers % inch long and broad have a gray-green scaly calyx with 3 or 4 deep lobes %6 inch long, 5 whitish scaly petals %6 inch long, and about 20 whitish spreading stamens. Female flowers about the same size have a cup-shaped, gray-green, scaly calyx -y16 inch long including the 5 short lobes, and pistil with gray-green, scaly, 3-celled ovary and 3 large whitish styles, deeply forked and appearing as 6, afterwards turning black and remaining at- tached to fruit. The seed capsules are nearly round but longer than broad, slightly 3-angled, about !/2 mcn l°ng- At maturity the capsule separates into 3 brown parts, each falling from the axis and splitting open to release a brown seed % inch long. Flowering and fruiting nearly throughout the year. The sapwood is whitish, and the heartwood is light yellow. The wood is moderately hard and moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.6). It is used only for posts and fuel. An understory tree in the upper Luquillo forest region and extending down the slopes into swampy areas and along stream courses in the upper por- tion of the lower Luquillo region of Puerto Rico. Public fokest. — Luquillo. Range. — Known only from mountains of eastern Puerto Rico. The other native species of this genus include 10 of shrubs and 2 of herbs. 266 4? r? ,/ y 120. Sabindn Natural size. Croton poecilanthus Urban 267 SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) 121. Varital Drypetes glauca Vahl A small to medium-sized understory tree char- acterized by: (1) smooth whitish or light gray bark; (2) broadly lance-shaped, dark green leaves, 3i/2_6 inches long and 1V4-2 inches broad, abruptly long- or short-pointed, usually widely spaced, in 2 rows on horizontal or slightly drooping twigs; (3) small greenish flowers about %6 inch across and ys inch high, 1 to several at base of leaves, the male and female flowers on different trees (dioecious) ; and (4) whitish elliptic fleshy fruits % inch long, borne along the branches at base of leaves. An evergreen tree commonly 10-30 feet high and to 6 inches in trunk diameter, with spreading branches, reported to reach larger size. The bark has small warts (lenticels). The inner bark is light brown or orange and slightly bitter. Young twigs are green, minutely hairy, becoming gray. The alternate leaves have petioles %-% inch long and blades often oblique at base, a little thickened, not toothed on edges, slightly shiny on upper surface, and paler beneath. Male flowers on short, hairy stalks less than Vi inch long have 4—5 yellow-green, minutely hairy, spreading sepals, 6-8 spreading stamens, and a broad lobed disk. Female flowers are single or paired on short hairy stalks about % inch long, with 4 greenish, slightly hairy sepals and pistil with hairy 1-celled ovary and broad stigma. The fruits (drupes) are finely hairy or hairless and 1 -seeded. Flowering and fruiting from spring to fall. The sapwood is whitish and hard. The wood is used for charcoal and posts and in the Lesser Antilles for construction. Widely distributed in the lower mountain re- gions of Puerto Rico. Also reported long ago from St. Croix. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to St. Vincent. (Reported also from Jamaica, perhaps in error.) Other common names. — palo bianco, palo de aceituna, cafeillo (Puerto Rico) ; bois cafe, cafe grand bois (Guadeloupe). Three additional species of this genus are trees or shrubs. Hueso (Drypetes alba Poit.), known also as palo de vaca and cafeillo, has smaller ellip- tic whitish fruits less than % inch long. Cueri- duro or Guianaplum (D. lateriflora. (Sw.) Krug& Urban), native also as far as southern Florida, has rounded dark brown fruits Vi-1/^ inch long. Encinilla (T>. iliri folia Krug & Urban), known only from northern Puerto Rico, has spiny toothed oblong leaves and elliptic fruits about % inch long. 268 121 Varital Natural size. Drypetea glauca Vahl 269 122. Rascaso SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) Euphorbia petiolaris Sims A poisonous shrub or small tree of dry and coastal areas with very toxic and caustic whitish latex irritating' to the skin and easily recognized by: (1) shiny brown bark peeling off in papery layers and very thin; (2) jointed twigs bearing 3-8 leaves at the swollen nodes; (3) slender peti- oles mostly longer than the blades; (4) small, ovate or rounded, thin, green leaf blades about %-% inch long and broad but slightly wider than long, rounded or minutely notched at apex and nearly straight or rounded at base. The plants should be known in order to be avoided. Deciduous and usually growing to 20 feet tall and "2-A inches in trunk diameter. The light brown inner bark, though almost tasteless, contains latex which is very irritating to the mouth. Twigs are light green when young, becoming gray and then dark reddish brown. Petioles are 14-I inch long, reddish tinged, with glandular scales (stipules) at base. The blades have widely spreading lateral veins, are not toothed on edges, and are pale beneath. The inconspicuous minute male and female flow- ers both on the same plant (monoecious) are borne in a stalked green hemispheric cup (involucre) % inch long, which has 5 yellowish petallike lobes each with a gland at base. The many male flowers within consist of a single yellow stamen less than y16 inch long. The female flower is a single light green pistil with stalked 3-angled 3-celled ovary and 3 spreading 2-forked styles. The smooth 3-angled capsule splits into 3 keeled parts, each containing 1 egg-shaped white seed Vs inch long, pointed and pitted. Collected in flower in August and December. The wood is little used because of the small size of the tree and the poisonous or caustic latex. Common in thickets in the dry coastal and dry limestone regions of eastern, southern, and south- western Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix ( ? ) , St. Thomas, St. John, Tor- tola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada. Public forest. — Guanica. Range. — South Caicos Island in Bahamas, His- paniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, St. Mar- tin, Martinique, and Guadeloupe, and Margarita (Venezuela). Other common names. — indio desnudo (Puerto Rico) ; broadleaf spurge (Bahamas) ; palo de leche, palo de yuca (Dominican Republic) ; bon gallon (Haiti) ; black mageniel (St. Martin). Botanical synonym. — A Memo, petiolare ( Sims) Millsp. This is the only native tree species of its genus. About 20 related native species are herbs and shrubs, sometimes placed in segregate genera. 270 122. Rascaso Natural size. Euphorbia petiolaris Sims 271 SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) 123. Yaiti, oysterwood This poisonous small tree or shrub is character- ized by : (1) poisonous milky juice which may irri- tate the skin; (2) slightly thickened stiff shiny leaves reverse lance-shaped (oblanceolate) to near- ly spoon-shaped (spatulate), broadest beyond middle, rounded or blunt-pointed at apex and tapering and long-pointed at base, often with a few small teeth toward the apex; (3) scaly or flaky bark on older trees; and (4) small yellowish- green lateral flowers, the male numerous along an axis (narrow raceme) ^-1 inch or more in length and usually 1 female flower at the base (monoeci- ous). An evergreen tree becoming 30 feet high and 8 inches in trunk diameter, with a narrow crown. The bark is gray or brown, smoothish on young trees with many thin fissures. Inner bark is light brown and slightly bitter. The gray twigs, green when young, have many raised dots (lenticels). The alternate leaves have petioles %— V& inch long and leathery blades lVsH^ inches long and Vz~^A inches broad, green to dark green above and paler beneath. The edges are slightly turned under, and veins are slightly raised in a prominent network on the upper surface. The crowded male flowers are borne 3 above a scale (bract) on the axis, each minute (less than YSo inch long and broad) and consisting of a smaller scale and 2-4 stamens. They are faintly fragrant and attract bees. There is 1 female flower (or none or sometimes 2) J/16 inch long at base of flower cluster, on a stalk % inch long which lengthens greatly in fruit, and consisting of 3 scales and a pistil composed of greenish 3-celled ovary and 3 styles. Brown seed capsules, borne on slender stalks Gymnanthes lucida Sw. 1-2 inches long, are rounded but slightly 3-lobed and broader than long, about % inch in diameter. There are 3 or fewer brown seeds %6 inch long. Flowering and fruiting from spring to fall. The sapwood is whitish or yellowish. The heart - wood is light olive, streaked with dark brown. The wood is very fine-grained, very hard, very heavy (specific gravity 1.1), takes a fine polish, and is durable. Used in Puerto Rico for fenceposts, the gener- ally small size limiting its values. The wood has been made into various small novelties, includ- ing canes, handles, backs of brushes and mirrors, and ornamental articles shaped by woodturning. The white latex is reported to produce inflam- mation of the skin upon contact. It is said that smoke from burning wood is irritating to the eyes. Forests and thickets in both limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Desecheo, Icacos, Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Virgin Gorda. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Guanica. Municipality where especially common. — 9. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bahamas, Greater Antilles, and northern Lesser Antilles from St. Eustatius to Antigua and Guadeloupe. Also in southeastern Mexico (Yucatan), Guatemala, and British Honduras. Other common names. — ramon, tabaco (Puerto Rico) ; tabacon, palo de hueso (Dominican Repub- lic) ; yaiti, aite (Cuba) ; pi] (Guatemala) ; oyster- wood, shiny oysterwood, crabwood (United States) ; crabwood (Bahamas, Jamaica) ; false lignumvitae (British Honduras); bois marbre (Haiti). 272 123. Yaiti, oysterwood Natural size. Oymnanthes lucida Sw. 273 SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) 124. Manzanillo, manchineel The deadly manzanillo or manchineel is the most poisonous tree of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Is- lands and ranks among the most famous poisonous plants in tropical America. The attractive palat- able fruits cause serious illness or even death when eaten, and the milky sap is injurious both exter- nally and internally. Growing along and near sandy seashore or sometimes inland, this tree is characterized by: (1) irritating milky sap in the leaves, twigs, and bark; (2) round, yellow-green or yellowish fruits, tinged with red, I-IV2 inches in diameter, resembling small apples or guavas (guayabas) but very toxic, often littering the beaches; and (3) the long-stalked, shiny, leathery, yellow-green, elliptic leaves with minute wavy teeth on edges, the sides bent upward slightly at the yellowish midrib, and with a raised dot (gland) at base of midrib. An evergreen tree to 40 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter, usually smaller, with widely forking branches and broad spreading crown. The bark is dark brown or gray, scaly or fissured or with warts, as much as % inch thick. Inner bark is light brown or whitish with bitter lasting irritating taste and with poisonous white sap or latex. Twigs are green when young, becoming brownish gray, and smooth. The alternate leaves have round yellow-green petioles 1V2~2 inches long. The leaf blades are 2-4 inches long and l1/!^!/, inches wide, short- pointed, rounded at base, shiny on upper surface and dull and paler beneath. The inconspicuous greenish male and female flowers are borne stalkless along a glandular greenish terminal axis (spike) 2-4 inches long (monoecious). Male flowers are in groups of 5- 15 each, about y16 inch long, composed of calyx with 2 or 3 lobes and 2 or 3 stamens. Female flowers, 1, 2, or none at base of same axis, about !/8 inch long and broad, consist of 3-lobed calyx and pistil with 6-8-celled ovary and 6-8 curved short brown styles. The stalkless fruits (drupes), single or paired but produced in quantities, appear lateral after forking and continued growth of twigs beyond. The sweet-scented fruit has a sunken spot at end and greenish-white mellow flesh which is palatable and not irritating to the taste tbough very toxic. A hard stone encloses G-8 dark brown seeds Vi inch long. Flowering from spring to October, the fruits maturing almost a year later. The sapwood is light brown or yellowish, and the heartwood dark brown. The wood is fairly hard, mediumweight (specific gravity 0.5), and strong, taking a good polish. Though reported to be durable, it is very susceptible to attack by dry- wood termites. The wood has been employed for furniture, cabinetwork, interior finish, and con- 274 Hippomane mancinella L. struction. Though the poisonous sap adds dif- ficulties to logging and handling lumber, the trees can be girdled in advance, or the bark can be burned off or charred before felling. The caustic milky sap is particularly irritating to the eyes and mouth, causing prolonged pain. It also produces severe inflammations and blisters on t lie ^kin of some persons. However, in some places it has been employed in local medicines. Caribs poisoned their arrows with this toxic liquid. As smoke from burning parts of the tree causes in- flammation of the eyes, the wood should not be used for fuel. It is reported that rain water drip- ping from the leaves is injurious. It has been claimed that a person who rested or slept under one of these trees would be injured, blinded, or even killed, but these exaggerated reports are erroneous. Classed as a honey plant, the honey re- ported to be nontoxic. Early explorers, who discovered this tree along beaches, ate the attractive, aromatic, tempting fruits, which resembled wild apples or crab apples, with disastrous and sometimes fatal results. In 1733, a royal ordinance prescribed destruction of all manzanillo trees at St. Barthelemy. However, as recently as 1940, during the late war, famished survivors of a sunken ship were poisoned by eating these fruits after landing their lifeboat on an un- inhabited beach there. Taken promptly to a hos- pital, they recovered after a few days. About 1885, these fruits poisoned 54 German seamen at Curacao, causing the death of 5 and serious illness of the others. Two persons were hospitalized at St. Thomas in 1954 after consuming these dangerous fruits. Prompt treatment includes causing vomiting and use of a stomach pump. Livestock have also been affected and should not be confined in areas with these trees. The fruits have poisoned hogs. Cattle have suffered skin irritation from contact with the plants. Perhaps the wide distribution along tropical shores, including small islands, resulted from dis- semination of the fruits by ocean currents. Near settlements the eradication of these dangerous trees has been undertaken, for example, in south- ern Florida. Fortunately this species is local and not very common in Puerto Rico. However, it is distrib- uted also through the Virgin Islands, being com- monest on St. Croix. The trees grow in coastal woods and thickets, sometimes singly, along and near sandy seashores and on rocky cliffs in both wet and dry areas around the islands. They are less common inland along streams. In the Virgin Islands they are found occasionally along roadsides, fences, and ditchbanks, in pastures and waste grounds, and around houses. Puerto Rico, Desecheo, Mona, 124. Manzanillo, manchineel Natural size. Hippomane manoinella L. 275 Ieacos, Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, and Virgin Gorda. Public forest. — Guanica. Range. — Chiefly along shores in southern Flor- ida including Florida Keys and throughout West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago and in Bonaire, Curasao, and Aruba. Also Atlantic and Pacific coasts of Mexico and Central America to Colombia, Ecuador, and Vene- zuela. On Revillagigedo, Galapagos, and other islands. Other common names. — poison-guava, man- chioneel (Virgin Islands) ; manzanillo (Spanish, commerce) ; manzanillo de costa, pinipiniche (Cuba) ; manzanillo de playa (Costa Rica) ; man- zanillo de playa, limoncillo (Venezuela) ; manchi- neel (United States, English) ; mancinillier (French) ; maximilier (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; mangeniel, manzalinja, manzanilla (Dutch West Indies). The English name manchineel is a corruption of the Spanish word manzanilla (little apple), from which the Latin scientific name also is derived. This genus has only one species. Symptoms and treatment of manzanillo or man- chineel poisoning in the Grenadines have been summarized by Richard A. Howard * as follows : "Serious nausea and diarrhea are usually followed by shock and by an appalling muscular weakness. Sloughing off of mucous membranes occurs within a (lay or two if even a small quantity of the fruit is eaten. The juice of the tree or the fruit in the eye will cause violent conjunc- tivitis and usually temporary blindness. Arrowroot is considered the best antidote for this poison in the Grena- dines. A suspension of arrowroot starch is given in lib- eral doses when the fruit has been eaten and poultices of arrowroot starch are applied to external burns from the juice of the manchineel." 1 Howard, Richard A. The vegetation of the Grenadines, Windward Islands, British West Indies. Harvard Univ. Gray Herbarium Contrib. 174, 129 pp., illus. 1952. SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) 125. Molinillo, sandbox, hura Hura crepitans L. This handsome large tree, with sap and seeds both poisonous, planted along highways and in pastures and wild, is recognized by: (1) a globu- lar crown of dense foliage; (2) the trunks and branches usually with many blackish spines %-3/4 inch long on the smoothish light brown bark; (3) heart-shaped leaves with blades curved up at the midrib, 5-8 inches long and 4-5 inches broad, abruptly long-pointed, with or without teeth on edges, and with long round green petioles about as long as the blades; (4) copious watery or slightly whitish latex, which is very irritating and poisonous; and (5) the large dark brown seed capsule 2i/2-31/2 inches in diameter and ly^-lVo inches high, grooved into about 15 sections. Deciduous or nearly so, to 80 feet in height, with straight trunk 2-4 feet or more in diameter. The thick bark forms a sheath around the base of each spine. Inner bark is light brown, irritating to the taste. The leaves are alternate on the stout green to brown twigs. Blades are slightly thickened, dark green and slightly shiny above and paler beneath, in a variation hairy, especially on the veins be- neath. Male and female flowers are borne on the same tree (monoecious), the former numerous in a ter- minal crowded cluster (spike) 1-2 inches long and % inch in diameter at the end of a slender green stalk 2i/>-4 inches long and resembling a short ear of corn. Individual male flowers are 3/16 inch long and i/8 inch broad, dark red, consisting of a cup- like calyx and 8-20 stamens in 2 or 3 rings on the central column. Female flowers, also dark red, are single and lateral near ends of twigs, on stout stalks Vo-1 inch long, and include a cup-shaped calyx 14 inch long and broad and a pistil, the ovary of about 15 cells inside the calyx, a long tubular style ^-l1/^ inches long, and a prominent enlarged and flattened stigma Vo-W-i inches across, including about 15 narrow lobes. The seed capsule is flattened and sunken in the center. When dry it splits and explodes violently with a loud noise, scattering the hard 1-seeded sections at a distance. The brown seeds are rounded and flattened. %-l inch long and broad. Flowering from winter to summer, the fruit ma- turing in spring and summer. The sapwood is whitish to light yellow, and the heartwood is pale yellowish brown, pale olive gray, or dark brown. The wood is moderately soft, mod- erately lightweight (specific gravity 0.38), brittle, fine-textured and often with interlocked grain. Air-seasoning is rapid but moderately difficult with warping. The wood is very susceptible to at- tack by dry-wood termites and variable in dur- ability. In Puerto Rico the wood is used chiefly for fenceposts and fuel. Elsewhere it is used for gen- eral carpentry, interior construction, boxes, crates, veneer, plywood, furniture, joinery, and poles. Formerly, dugout canoes were hollowed from large trunks. The caustic, poisonous latex causes inflammation or eruption upon contact with the skin of some persons and is very irritating to the eyes, report- edly causing temporary blindness. It makes the tree unpopular with wood cutters. The juice has 276 125. Molinillo, sandbox, hura Two-thirds natural size. Hura crepitans L. 277 been used to stupefy fish. The seeds are toxic to humans and livestock and have been employed in poisoning animals and in medicine, but such use is dangerous. When exploding, the mature seed cap- sules may injure or frighten persons and livestock. In some tropical areas, including southern Flor- ida, the trees are planted for shade. However, the poisonous sap makes the trees objectionable around houses. Young trees grow rapidly but require plenty of light. Windstorms damage the trees. Common as a roadside shade tree and living fence along the moist coast of Puerto Rico, mostly east of San Juan. Occasionally elsewhere on the island, planted and wild. Through the Virgin Islands scattered in moist forests and pastures and planted along fence rows and for shade. St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Through West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago and on the con- tinent from Costa Rica south to Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and Guianas. Planted also in southern Florida and southern California, Bahamas, and Dutch West Indies. Cultivated and occasionally naturalized in Old World tropics. Other common names. — javilla (Puerto Rico) ; monkey-pistol (Virgin Islands) ; habillo, habilla, jabillo, jabilla (Spanish) ; salvadera, haba (Cuba); tronador, mine (Panama); eeibo ama- rillo, ceiba de leche, acuapar, tronador, castaneto (Colombia); ceiba, ceiba blanca, ceiba habillo (Venezuela) ; catahua (Peru) ; oehoho (Bolivia) ; hura (commerce) ; hura, hura-wood, possumwood, sandbox, sandbox-tree (United States, English) ; monkey-pistol, possumtree (English) ; monkey dinner-bell (British Guiana) ; sablier (French) ; arbre au diable (Haiti) ; bois du diable (Marti- nique) ; zandkokerboom, sandbox-tree (Dutch West Indies) ; possentrie (Surinam) ; assaeu (Brazil, commerce) ; cataua, areeiro (Brazil). The English name sandbox and French name sablier refer to the early use of the hollowed out shell of immature seed capsules to hold sand, em- ployed in blotting ink before blotters came into use. Paper weights have been made by filling the capsnles with lead, but the capsules may come apart on drying. A closely related species of jabillo (Hura poly- andra Bail].), differing in the white male flowers with more numerous stamens in a column %-% inch long, is native from Mexico to Costa Rica. 126. Cedro macho SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) Hyeronima clusioides (Tul.) Muell.-Arg. This medium-sized tree limited to Puerto Rico is characterized by: (1) a very uniform, dense, bright green crown, pyramidal on young trees; (2) twigs, petioles, branches of flower clusters, and flowers covered with tiny dotlike brown scales, which are less conspicuous on both leaf surfaces; (3) the elliptic leaves blunt-pointed or rounded at both ends with wavy and often recurved edges, slightly jointed and bent where the blade is at- tached to the usually reddish-tinged petiole; and (4) numerous minute yellowish-green flowers less than % inch long in lateral branched clusters, male and female on different trees (dioecious). Evergreen tree to 70 feet in height and 3 feet or more in trunk diameter. The bark varies from scaly to fissured and rough, from gray to dark brown, and becomes more than 14 inch thick. Inner bark is brown or reddish and slightly bitter. Twigs are light brown. The leaves are alternate on petioles V^-^Vi inches long and have slightly thickened blades 2%-5 inches long and 11/2-3 inches broad. The upper surface is green and slightly shiny, and the lower surface paler and with midrib often hairy. Flower clusters (panicles) 1— 4 inches long bear flowers almost stalkless along the branches. Male flowers have a cup-shaped, 3-5-toothed scaly calyx, a hairy disk, and 3-5, usually 5, spreading sta- mens. Female flowers have a cup-shaped scaly calyx and a pistil with 2-celled ovary and 2 or 3 2-forked styles. The nearly round fruits are less than y8 inch long, reddish to blackish, slightly fleshy, and 1-seeded. Flowering mainly in summer and fall and in fruit from late summer to winter. The sapwood is light brown, the heartwood rich reddish brown. The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.8), finishes well, and takes a good polish. It is susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. The wood has been employed both for furniture and construction. It is considered heavy for the former use but is very attractive. Distributed in Puerto Rico chiefly in the moist limestone and western lower Cordillera regions. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guilarte, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Toro Negro. Range. — Known only from Puerto Rico. The generic name also is spelled Rieronyma. Reports of tliis species from Jamaica and from Dominica to Trinidad refer to 77. jamaicensis Urban and //. caribaea Urban, respectively. 278 126. Cedro macho Two-thirds natural size. S7-921 0—64 19 Hyeronima clusioides (Tul.) Muell.-Arg. 279 SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) 127. Grosella, Otaheite gooseberry-tree Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels* A small tree cultivated for its edible sour fruits. It is distinguished by: (1) the light yellow juicy berries %-% mch in diameter, somewhat rounded but broader than long and slightly 8- or 6-angled, suggesting a diminutive squash, hanging down in clusters from the branches; (2) the simple leaves alternate in 2 rows along slender deciduous twigs and appearing to be pinnate, ovate, 1-3 inches long and %-1^4 inches broad, short-pointed at apex and rounded at base, on short petioles Vs mcn long; (3) stout twigs rough from rounded raised twig scars; and (4) flowers minute and reddish or pink, 4-parted and Vs-%6 mcn across, usually clustered along slender axes back of leaves. A spreading deciduous tree attaining 20-30 feet in height and 6 inches in trunk diameter. The greenish-gray bark is fissured and slightly scaly. Inner bark is pink and almost tasteless. The con- spicuous persistent twigs are V2 mcn or more in diameter, brownish gray, green and slender at apex. The leaves hang down from green or pinkish- tinged twigs 6-12 inches long which appear to be axes of pinnate leaves and which shed from the stout twigs like leaves. Blades are thin, green and slightly shiny above, and beneath pale blue green with a bloom. At base of each leaf are 2 minute pointed scales (stipules). Flowers are borne mostly on slender leafless axes (panicles) 2-5 inches long, several clustered to- gether on short stalks. Male and female flowers are mixed in the same clusters (monoecious) and have 4 spreading calyx lobes about Vi6 inch long but lack petals. There are 4 stamens also in male flowers, and in female flowers a pistil with 4- or 3-celled ovary and 4 or 3 styles. Fruits hang down in clusters, several along a slender drooping axis. The fruit contains a brownish stone with few seeds. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year, fruiting chiefly in April and August. The heartwood is reddish brown, moderately hard, fine-grained, of medium weight (specific gravity 0.6), strong, tough, and fibrous. It is said to be durable and to take a good polish but, seldom being available, is little used. Widely planted in tropical regions for the juicy sour fruits, which can be eaten raw but usually are made into jelly, preserves, candy, and pickles. The root and seed have been used in medicines. Introduced into the West Indies in 1793. Cultivated and also spreading along roadsides and waste places, chiefly in the coastal regions of Puerto Rico. Also in St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native of tropical Asia and perhaps also East Indies but extensively introduced and spontaneous and sometimes naturalized in tropical regions. Southern Florida, through West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad, Mexico, Central America, and South America. Other common names. — cereza amarilla, cerezo agrio, grosella blanca (Puerto Rico) ; grosella (Spanish) ; guinda, pimienta (El Salvador) ; gro- sella de Nicaragua (Nicaragua) ; cerezo agrio, cereza (Venezuela) ; Otaheite gooseberry -tree, Otaheite-gooseberry, star-gooseberry , West-Indi- an-gooseberry, gooseberry -tree, jimbling (United States, English) ; wild-plum (British Honduras) ; wild gooseberry (British Guiana) ; sybilline (Haiti) ; surelle (St. Barthelemy) ; pomme surelle (Guadeloupe) ; gooseberry (Dutch West Indies) ; goesberie (Surinam) ; roselle (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Phyllanthus distichus (L.) Muell.-Arg., Cicca disticha L., C. acida (L.) Merr. This species is botanically unrelated to the true gooseberry, which is a prickly bush (Ribes grossu- laria L., family Saxifragaceae) grown in tem- perate regions and having fruits with similar flavor. The genus sometimes divided into several, is represented also by 2 native tree species, 1 of which is illustrated here, and by 6 species of herbs and shrubs. Jagiierillo (PhyllantMis juglandifolhis Willd. ; synonyms P. grandifolius auth., not L., Asterandra grandifolia auth.), known also as to- billo and gamo de costa, is a small tree with larger oblong or lance-shaped leaves 2-6 inches long. 280 127. Grosella, Otaheite gooseberry-tree Two-thirds natural size. Phyllanthus acidus (L.) Skeels 281 128. Millo SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) Phyllanthus nobilis (L. f.) Muell.-Arg. Millo is a small tree distinguished by: (1) dark brown twigs with numerous conspicuous, raised, light brown, warty dots (lenticels), the alternate leaves hanging down in 2 rows; (2) thin narrowly elliptic leaves 2-5 inches long and %-l% inches broad, short- or long-pointed at both ends, above dull green or dark green and beneath pale whitish green; (3) tiny 4-parted green flowers, male and female on different trees (dioecious) in lateral clusters scattered along the twig; and (4) green- ish seed capsules %6 inch in diameter, rounded but broader than long, with 5 or 4 peculiar narrow 2-forked styles remaining flattened on apex, slightly fleshy but splitting into 5 or 4 dark blue segments, each 2-seeded. A deciduous tree 25-40 feet high and to 8 inches in trunk diameter, with irregular spreading crown. The bark is light gray, smoothish but becoming slightly fissured and scaly, exposing the brown bark beneath. Inner bark is pinkish and slightly bitter. The leaves have short thin petioles Vs-Vi mch long and at base a pair of pointed scales (stipules) Yis inch long. The male flowers less than % inch across are borne on threadlike stalks about %e mcn long, many clustered together at a node, consisting of 4 sepals less than y16 inch long and 4 stamens of the same length. The small but larger female flowers have stalks V^-Vo mch long, calyx nearly %6 inch across the 4 lobes which are turned downward, and pistil of rounded 5- or 4-celled ovary y16 inch in diameter with 5 or 4 styles united at base, bent downward, each with 2-forked stigma. The brown seeds are Vs mch long. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year, chiefly in the spring and early summer. Often flowering when leafless. The light brown sapwood is hard. Heartwood is brownish, sometimes pinkish and heavy (spe- cific gravity 0.9) . The wood is used only for posts and fuel. Widely distributed in thickets and the under- story of forests in the coastal, moist limestone, and lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also in St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola, and recorded from St. Croix. Purlic forests. — Cambalache, Guajataea, Lu- quillo, Susua. Range. — Widely distributed in tropical Amer- ica. Through West Indies in Cuba, Jamaica, His- paniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, Lesser Antilles from Saba to Grenada, and Trinidad. Also from Mexico to Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Gui- anas, and Venezuela. Other common names. — amort iguado, palo de millo, higuillo, avispillo, siete-cueros, yuquillo (Puerto Rico) ; false gooseberry (Virgin Islands) ; palo amargo (Dominican Republic) ; guaicaje, azulejo, lloron (Cuba) : nistamal (El Salvador) ; carillo (Nicaragua) ; pinturero, yayo (Colombia) ; guarataro (Venezuela) ; chaquirillo (Ecuador) ; ucariviro (Peru) ; bastard hog-berry (Jamaica) ; clawberry, ramon macho (British Honduras) ; mille branches, bois diable, acomat batard (Guade- loupe) ; gooseberry (Dutch West Indies) ; boskof- fie (Surinam). Botanicae synonyms. — Margaritaria nobilis L. f., M. nobilis var. antUlana (A. Juss.) Stehle & Quentin, Phyllanthus antillanus (A. Juss.) Muell.-Arg., P. nobilis var. antillanus (A. Juss.) Muell.-Arg. 282 128. Millo Natural size. Phyllanthus nobilis (L. f.) Muell.-Arg. 283 SPURGE FAMILY (EUPHORBIACEAE) 129. Tabaiba A medium-sized poisonous tree of moist forests confined to Puerto Rico, easily recognized by : (1) abundant irritating and poisonous milky juice; (2) the oblong or elliptic dark green leaves, slightly thickened and shiny, with many straight- parallel lateral veins almost at right angles to mid- rib and 2 raised dotlike glands at upper end of petiole; and (3) the small yellowish-green flowers stalkless on narrow lateral axes %-2 inches long, mostly male with 1 or a few female flowers often present at base (monoecious). An evergreen tree 20-60 feet high and to 2 feet in trunk diameter, with a columnar crown. The light brown bark is smoothish or slightly fissured and thin. Inner bark is whitish,* its thick white latex causing a lingering irritation in the mouth when tasted. The twigs are green, becoming brown or gray. The alternate leaves have green petioles l/2~^-lA inches long and blades mostly 2l/o-Q inches long and 1V2-^Y2 inches broad, sometimes to 8 inches long and 2% inches wide. They are abruptly short-pointed at apex and short-pointed or rounded at base, finely and inconspicuously toothed or almost without teeth, paler and slightly shiny on lower surface. Near the ends of twigs are located the green flower clusters (spikes). Male flowers, in groups of 3-9 above a broad rounded scale, are about %6 inch long and broad, yellow green, and consist, of a cup-shaped 2-toothed calyx and 2 stamens. Fe- male flowers when present at base of axis are borne singly and are long and narrow, Vs_%6 inch long, green, composed of a cup-shaped 3-lobed calyx and pistil with ovary and 3 styles. The seed capsules are nearly round or slightly 3-angled, about % inch in diameter, green, turning Sapium laurocerasus Desf. brown, slightly fleshy but becoming dry, with 3 white seeds about Vi inch long. Flowering and fruiting from spring to fall. The sap wood is whitish, and the heart wood light brown or light yellow. The wood is soft, light- weight (specific gravity 0.38), mostly fine-tex- tured except for many large pores, with grain fre- quently tightly interlocked, and without visible growth rings. Rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining character- istics are as follows : planing is excellent ; shaping and turning are fair; boring and mortising are poor ; sanding is very poor ; and resistance to screw splitting is good. The wood is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites and other insects and to decay. Sap-staining fungi discolor freshly cut wood if it is neither dipped in fungicide nor dried promptly. Though cut occasionally for posts, the wood is unpopular because the caustic latex injures the skin. It is suitable for boxes, crates, interior con- struction, paper pulp, and plywood. Latex of re- lated South American species has been a minor source of rubber. In forests of the lower and upper mountain and moist limestone regions of Puerto Rico. Also re- ported long ago from St. John but not seen in flower there. Sterile specimens possibly of this species were collected at Tortola in 1954. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Rio Abajo, Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 1,10,35. Range. — Known definitely only from Puerto Rico. Other common names. — manzanillo, lechecillo (Puerto Rico). 284 129. Tabaiba Natural size. Sapium laurocerasus Desf. 285 CASHEW FAMILY (ANACARDIACEAE) Key to the 6 species illustrated (Nos. 130-135) A. Leaves simple. B. Leaves elliptic or obovate, rounded at both ends or slightly notched at apex — 130. Anacardium occidentalc. BB. Leaves lance-shaped, long-pointed at both ends — 131. Mangifera indica* AA. Leaves pinnate. C. Leaflets usually 5 (3-7), ovate, blunt-pointed or minutely notched at apex; sap poisonous to the touch — 132. Met opium toxiferum. CC. Leaflets 9-25. 1). Leaflets mostly lance-shaped, long- or short-pointed at apex, with short stalks about % inch long. E. Leaflets inconspicuously toothed — 133. Spondias dulcis.* BE. Leaflets not toothed — 134. Spondias tnombin. DD. Leaflets elliptic, rounded or short-pointed at apex, almost stalkless — 135. Spondias purpurea.* 130. Pajuil, cashew Known for its cashew nuts and fruits, this small tree of sandy areas on the north coast of Puerto Rico, sometimes planted, is identified by: (1) a dense irregular crown of obovate or elliptic, dull blue-green, leathery leaves 2^-6 inches long and 13/4-3 inches broad, rounded at both ends or slight- ly notched at apex, with the edges turned under and with prominent sunken lateral veins nearly at right angles to the midrib; (2) many fragrant pinkish flowers about % inch long, with 5 very narrow petals, short-stalked and crowded toward ends of terminal branched clusters; and (3) the very odd fruits consisting of a shiny gray -brown kidney-shaped or bean-shaped nut (edible only when roasted), about 1-1 14 inches long on a yel- low or reddish, fruitlike, enlarged, pear-shaped stalk or false fruit about l%-3 inches long and l3/4-2 inches broad, juicy and edible, thus appear- ing as if the nut grows outside the fruit. The nut shell contains a caustic poisonous oil which blisters or burns the skin. An evergreen tree to 2(1 feet high and 6 inches in trunk diameter, or often shrubby. The light gray to brown bark is smoothish, becoming slightly fissured. The whitish to reddish-brown inner bark is thick, bitter, and astringent, and contains a milky juice, and larger trunks yield a gum. Twigs are yellow green and finely hairy wheal young, becoming light gray, stiff, and crooked. The alternate leaves have broad yellow-green petioles ^-^ inch long. Leaf blades slightly thickened, pale beneath. The widely spreading flower clusters (panicles) are 4-19 inches long and nearly as broad. Flowers are male and bisexual on the same tree (polyg- amous). Calyx is more than %6 inch long, light green and finely hairy, narrowly 5-lobed nearly to base; the 5 pinkish petals yellow green at first are %-Vo inch long, long-pointed, spreading and curved backward, and minutely hairy ; 10 or fewer stamens, 1 much longer than the others, slightly united at base; and in bisexual flowers a pistil on a disk with 1 -eel led ovary and slender curved style on 1 side. The nuts, which are the true fruits, are attached at end, dry, and do not split open. Inside the poisonous shell is 1 large curved seed nearly 1 inch long, the edible cashew nut. As the nut matures, 286 Anacardium occidentale L. the stalk (receptacle) at base enlarges rapidly within a few days into a fleshy fruitlike structure broadest at apex, popularly known as the fruit. This thin-skinned edible cashew "fruit" has light yellow spongy flesh, which is very juicy and pleas- antly acid and slightly astringent when eaten raw but highly astringent when green. Flowering from February to May, the fruit maturing from April to August. The wood is whitish, brownish, or pinkish, of medium hardness, mediumweight (specific gravity 0.5), moderately strong, and easy to work but susceptible to attack by dry- wood termites. Though little used in Puerto Rico, the wood has been employed elsewhere locally in construction and carpentry, including boatbuilding, yokes, hubs, etc., and for charcoal. The bark has served in tanning. Mucilage repellent to insects and var- nish have been made from the gum, which is similar to gum arabic, and an indelible ink from the milky sap. The tree is valued primarily for the nuts and fruits. Roasted cashew nuts are an item of world commerce. In roasting, the poisonous oil of the shell is removed by heat, but the caustic fumes and drops of oil may blister the skin and inflame the eyes if care is not exercised. The "fruits'1 are eaten fresh or in preserves and have been em- ployed in preparation of wine and vinegar. Cardol oil, the poisonous, thick, black, very acrid oil of the shell of the nut, has been used medici- nally and to preserve book bindings, carved wood, and similar articles against insects. A nutritious oil similar to olive oil has been obtained from the seeds. The bark has been the source of medicines also. As the flowers are attractive to bees, this species has been classed also among the honey plants. Living fences have been made from the trees, which sometimes are grown for ornament. The plants mature at a very early age and are short- lived, flowering and fruiting as early as the second or third or sometimes the first year after sowing. Through the tropics the trees are grown in planta- tions for the nuts and "fruits," but they are semi- wild or naturalized in many regions. In the Vir- gin Islands the trees are uncommon but widely planted for shade and fruit, such as around houses, 130. Pajuil, cashew Natural size. Anacardium occidentale L. 287 along roads, and in waste grounds. Limited to the moist coastal region of Puerto Rico, chiefly on the white sands between Bayamon and Aguadilla. Also in Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda. Range. — Throughout West Indies, except Ba- hamas, from Cuba to Trinidad and Dutch West Indies. Also from southern Mexico to Peru and Brazil, the range extended through cultivation and naturalization. Planted also in southern Florida. Cultivated and naturalized in Africa, India, and elsewhere in the Old World tropics. It has been suggested that Indians from South America may have brought this species to the West Indies in pre-Columbian times. Other common names. — c a j u i 1, maranon (Puerto Rico) ; maranon (Spanish) ; cajuil (Do- minican Republic) ; jocote maranon (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador) ; merey (Colombia, Ven- ezuela) ; caju, casu (Peru) ; cashew, cashew-nut, cashew-apple (United States, English) ; acajou, noix d'acajou, pomme d'acajou, pommier d'acajou (French) ; pomme cajou (Guadeloupe) ; acajou a pomme, noix d'acajou (French Guiana) ; cashu, palu di cashupete, kasjoe, cashew, cherry (Dutch West Indies) ; kasjoe, boschkasjoe, mereke, orvi (Surinam) ; caju, cajueiro (Brazil). CASHEW FAMILY (ANACARDIACEAE) 131. Mango This popular introduced fruit and shade tree, bearing one of the finest tropical fruits, hardly re- quires description. It is characterized by: (1) a very dense round crown and stout trunk; (2) large, leathery, dark green, lance-shaped or nar- rowly oblong leaves long-pointed at both ends or short-pointed at base, drooping in conspicuous red-brown clusters when first produced; (3) nu- merous small yellow-green to pink 5-parted flow- ers about 14 inch across in large showy terminal clusters j and (4) the familiar large, elliptic, yel- low fruits with edible flesh and a large seed in a mass of fibers. A medium-sized to large evergreen tree attain- ing 20-65 feet in height with trunk to 3 feet in diameter. The brown bark is smoothish, with many thin fissures, and thick, becoming darker, rough, and scaly or furrowed. Inner bark is light brown and bitter. A whitish latex exudes from cut twigs, and a resin from cuts in the trunk. The stout twigs are pale green and hairless. The alternate leaves have petioles V2-IV2 inches long and swollen at base. Leaf blades are 6-12 inches long and iy2-3 inches broad, curved up- ward from midrib and sometimes with edges a little wavy. Large branched flower clusters (panicles) are 6-8 inches or more in length, with reddish hairy branches. The. short-stalked finely hairy fragrant flowers are partly male and partly bisexual (po- lygamous). The yellow-green calyx y16 inch long is deeply 5-lobed; there are 5 spreading petals more than i/8 inch long, pink but turning reddish; 5 stamens, 1 fertile and 4 shorter and sterile, borne on a disk; and some flowers have a pistil with 1-celled ovary and slender lateral style. The large aromatic fruits (drupes) on hanging stalks are mostly 3-4V& inches long, slightly nar- rowed toward apex and a little flattened, soft at maturity. The yellow flesh is thick and juicy, the seed 21/2-31/f> inches long, flattened, and weighing about an ounce. Flowering mainly in winter and Mangifera indica L.* spring (recorded from November to July) and maturing fruits mostly from May to September. The sapwood is cream colored or light brown, and the heartwood pale yellow or brown and often with darker spots and irregular lines. The wood is hard, moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.62), tough, strong, and medium-textured and has straight to wavy grain, many large pores, and growth rings. Rate of air-seasoning is moderate, and amount of degrade minor. Machining char- acteristics are as follows: planing, shaping, and turning are fair; boring, mortising, and resistance to screw splitting are good ; and sanding is poor. The wood works easily but with only fair results. It is susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. In Puerto Rico the wood has been used occasion- ally for meat chopping-blocks as well as for fuel. Elsewhere it has been employed for furniture, car- pentry, flooring, construction, boxes and crates, carts, plywood, and dry cooperage. Beautiful fur- niture has been made from a variety with streaked wood. This is perhaps the most popular fruit through tropical America. Though usually eaten raw, mangos are also cooked or made into preserves or juice. Numerous improved varieties with larger and less fibrous fruits have been developed. These superior varieties, propagated vegetatively by budding or grafting, should replace the common unimproved fibrous mangos which are grown from seeds. Mango is an excellent hardy shade tree. It is also among the important honey plants, secreting quantities of nectar, and the flowers reportedly are edible. Livestock eat the fruits. The seeds, flowers, bark, leaves, and resin have been em- ployed medicinally, and the bark and leaves yield a yellow dye. A few persons have skin sensitive to the sap, which produces a rash around the mouth and on the face. Widely planted as a fruit tree and shade tree around houses and along highways and commonly 288 131. Mango Two-thirds natural size. Mangifera indica L. 289 escaping from cultivation and naturalized almost throughout Puerto Rico with the exception of the mangrove, dry limestone, and upper mountain regions. Through the Virgin Islands commonly planted and also spontaneous except in the drier areas. Mona, Culebra, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native of tropical Asia probably from India east to Vietnam. Planted and escaped from cultivation throughout the tropics, including southern Florida and Florida Keys, West Indies, and from Mexico to Peru and Brazil. Grown also in southern California. Though the exact date of introduction into the New World is uncertain, mango reportedly reached Mexico and Brazil before the end of the 17th century. About 1742 this fruit was first in- troduced into the West Indies at Barbados from Brazil and in 1782 readied Jamaica. It is thought that mangos have been cultivated by man for 4,000 years. Other common names. — mango, mango (Span- ish) ; mango (United States, English) ; mangue, manguier (French) ; mangot, mangotine (Guade- loupe) ; manggo, manggaboom (Dutch) ; manja, kajanna manja, bobbie manja (Surinam) ; manga, mango, mangueira (Brazil). CASHEW FAMILY (ANACARDIACEAE) 132. Papayo, Florida poisontree Metopium toxiferum (L.) Krug & Urban This small tree related to poison-ivy of the United States, with caustic sap poisonous to the touch, is abundant in Mona but uncommon in Puerto Rico. It is characterized by : (1) smooth- ish light gray bark mottled with yellow to brown spots; (2) a broad rounded crown of widely spreading stout branches; (3) pinnate leaves with usually 5 (3-7) mostly ovate leathery leaflets blunt-pointed or sometimes minutely notched at apex and nearly straight at base on yellow-green axes and leaflet stalks; (4) many small 5-parted greenish flowers about %6 inch across in branched lateral clusters; and (5) numerous elliptic or ob- long fruits %-'/2 inch long and Vi inch in diam- eter, green turning to orange brown at, maturity. An evergreen tree 15-20 feet in height and 6-12 inches in trunk diameter. The distinctive bark peels off in thin scales or flakes, exposing the yel- low to brown thin inner layer. Inner bark is pink- ish. The stout twigs are brown with many raised orange-brown dots (lenticels), finely hairy when young. The poisonous watery sap turns black upon drying. The alternate leaves clustered near ends of twigs are 6-11 inches long and have leaflet stalks 14— 1 inch long. Leaflets are paired except the terminal one. Leaflet blades are 1^2-3% inches long and l-2Vo inches broad, not toothed at edges, above shiny green, and beneath yellow green and slightly shiny or dull. Some leaflets have scattered black dots composed in part of black dried sap at in- jured places. The slender, narrow flower clusters (panicles) at base of leaves are 6-10 inches long, bearing flowers on short stalks. Flowers are mostly male and female on different trees or partly bisexual (polygamous). There are 5 rounded sepals V32 inch long, 5 yellow-green elliptic petals less than % inch long and with dark lines within, 5 stamens Vi6 inch long, and pistil (rudimentary in male flowers) on a disk, consisting of 1-celled ovary, short style, and slightly 3-lobed stigma. 290 Fruits (drupes) retain the sepals at base and have 1 seed about V4 mcn l°]1g- Pigeons feed upon the great quantities of fruits on Mona. Recorded with flowers in February and with fruits in sum- mer and fall. Sap wood is yellowish or light brown, and heart- wood dark brown streaked with red. The hard, heavy wood is easily worked, takes a fine polish, and is reported to be durable. It is little used in Puerto Rico but has served elsewhere for fence- posts. This species is of interest primarily as a poison- ous tree to be avoided and to be recognized in areas where found. The genus is closely related to that of the well-known poison-ivy and poison-oak {Toxicodendron or Rhus) in the United States. The sap of all parts of the plant is imtating to the skin of many persons and often produces a painful rash or swelling upon contact with leaves or twigs. For example, men clearing land where this tree grows have suffered inflammation of the skin. Sometimes the trees are seen as ornamentals in southern Florida, where they may have persisted from the original forest. A resinous gum from the bark is said to have medicinal properties. Also a honey plant. In* forests and thickets of the dry limestone re- gion and rare in the moist limestone region of Puerto Rico. One of the commonest trees of Mona. Absent from Culebra, Vieques, and Virgin Islands. Public forest. — Cambalache (very rare). Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys, through Bahamas, Cuba, Hispaniola, Mona and Puerto Rico, and Anguilla in Leeward Islands. Other common names. — almendron, c e d r o prieto (Puerto Rico) ; guao de costa (Cuba) ; Florida poisontree, poisonwood, West Indies poisontree (United States) ; poisontree, poison- wood (Bahamas); mancenillier (Haiti). 132. Papayo, Florida poisontree Natural size. Metopium toxiferum (L.) Krug & Urban 291 CASHEW FAMILY (ANACARDIACEAE) 133. Jobo de la India, ambarella Spondias dulcis Parkinson* This exotic fruit tree is characterized by: (1) pinnate leaves 8-12 inches long with 11-23 short- stalked, lance-shaped or oblong leaflets lV2~2i/> inches long, thin and long-pointed, the edges in- conspicuously toothed and turned under; (2) nu- merous small, fragrant, whitish, 5-parted flowers nearly 14 inch across in branched terminal clus- ters; and (3) large elliptic or rounded yellow fruits 2-4 inches long and 2 inches in diameter, sour and edible. A small to medinm-sized deciduous tree reach- ing 20-40 feet in height and IV2 feet in trunk di- ameter, with few stout branches and stout twigs. The bark is smooth and greenish and exudes a res- inous juice. The leaves are alternate. Leaflets have stalks less than y§ inch long and blades paired except the terminal one, %-l inch broad, short-pointed at base. The flower clusters (panicles) are 8-12 inches long, the flowers on stalks about y16 inch long. Flowers are male or female and bisexual on the same tree (polygamous). The small calyx is 5-lobed; the 5 whitish petals less than y8 inch long are spreading and bent downwards; there are 10 stamens ; and the pistil on a disk has an ovary with 5 styles. The thick-skinned fruits (drupes) are borne 2-10 in a drooping cluster. They have a pleasant odor and flavor suggesting apples. The large few- seeded stone 1-1 V^ inches long has stiff spinelike projections into the yellow juicy pulp. In fruit through most of the year. The sapwood is whitish to light yellow, and the heartwood is light brown. The wood is moder- ately soft, lightweight, and not durable. The fruits are made into preserves as veil as eaten fresh. Plants are propagated readily by cuttings. Grown for its fruits in Puerto Rico, chiefly in the coastal regions. Also in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Range. — Native of Society Islands in the South Pacific but planted in various tropical regions and relatively uncommon in the New World. Culti- vated in southern Florida, through West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago, and from Guianas and Venezuela to Brazil. Though introduced into Jamaica as early as 1782, this has not become a popular fruit tree in the West Indies. Other common names. — citara (Puerto Rico) ; pomme cythere (Virgin Islands) ; jobo de la India, manzana de oro (Dominican Republic) ; ciruela dulce, manzana de Otahiti, jobo de la India (Cuba) ; jobo de indio (Venezuela) ; manzana de oro (Ecuador) ; ambarella, golden-apple, vi-apple, Otaheite-apple (English) ; Otaheite-plum (Ja- maica) ; pomme cythere (French) ; mombin es- pagnol, robe (Haiti) ; prune cythere (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; pomme de Cythere (Curasao, Suri- nam) ; fransi mope (Surinam) ; caja manga, im- buzeiro (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Spondias cytherea Sonner., S. dulcis Forst. f . 292 133. Jobo de la India, ambarella Two-thirds natural size. Spondias dulcis Parkinson 293 CASHEW FAMILY (ANACARDIACEAE) 134. Jobo, hogplum, yellow mombin Jobo, which grows wild and is planted as a fence row tree and for its fruit, is recognized by : (1) numerous spinelike projections 14-% inch long on the thick, corky bark of the trunk; (2) a very spreading yellow-green crown, usually with few nearly horizontal branches; (3) pinnate leaves 8-16 inches or more in length with 9-19 asymmet- rical ovate or lance-shaped, short or long-pointed, thin leaflets; (4) numerous small, fragrant, yel- lowish-white, 5-parted flowers nearly 14 inch across in showy branched terminal clusters; and (5) clusters of yellow, cylindrical, soft, juicy fruits li/j-l1/^ inches long and %-l inch in diameter, edible though inferior. A small to medium-sized deciduous tree to 60 feet in height and 2y2 feet in trunk diameter. The whitish-brown or gray bark is smoothish ex- cept for numerous spinelike projections 14-% inch high, becoming rough and furrowed. Inner bark is light pink and slightly bitter. A resin exudes from cuts. The stout twigs are hairless or finely hairy. The alternate leaves have slender and finely hairy axes. The leaflets are more or less paired except for the terminal one, on stalks Vg-1^ inch long. Leaflet blades are 2-4 inches long and 1-1% inches broad, short-pointed or rounded and oblique at base, the edges not toothed or slightly wavy, yellow -green on upper surface and paler beneath. The spreading flower clusters (panicles) are 6- 12 inches or more in length, with flowers on short stalks y16 inch or more in length. Flowers are male or female and bisexual on the same tree (polygamous) . The minute hairy calyx is 5-lobed ; there are 5 yellowish-white petals nearly % mcn long, spreading and curved back ; 10 stamens ; and pistil on a disk, composed of ovary and 4 styles. The pleasantly odorous fruits (drupes) have a thin yellow edible flesh with slightly sour pungent taste and a large few-seeded stone about 1 inch long. Flowering chiefly from winter to summer and maturing fruits from summer to winter. The sapwood is whitish or cream colored, and the heartwood similar when first cut but turning golden brown. Sap-staining fungi in seasoning often turn the wood to a blue-gray color. The wood is soft, lightweight (specific gravity 0.41), with straight to slightly interlocked grain, coarse texture, and numerous pores. It is tough and strong for its weight. Rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining characteristics are as follows : planing is excellent ; shaping, turning, boring, and mortising are poor; sanding is fair; and resistance to screw splitting is good. The wood is perishable and very sus- Spondias mombin L. ceptible to attack by dry-wood termites and other insects. In Puerto Rico the wood serves for fenceposts and fuel. It is used also for soft-drink cases, packing boxes, and matches. It will produce pulp for white paper and utility plywood and could be utilized for cheap furniture and light construction where protected. Other uses elsewhere are as a cork substitute and for charcoal, and the bark as an astringent. The trees are planted as living fenceposts and for shade and ornament, being readily propagated by cuttings and fast growing when not in deep shade. The fruits can be eaten, though inferior to the smaller fruits of purple mombin (/Spondias purpurea L.), and serve to fatten hogs and cattle. A honey plant. Along roadsides and fence rows and in pastures and forests in the coastal, moist limestone, and lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico, perhaps naturalized rather than native. Also in St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests.— Aguirre, Cambalache, Carite, Guajataca, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, San Juan, Susua, Vega. Municipalities where especially common. — 8, 25, 30, 44. Range.— Throughout West Indies except Ba- hamas and from southern Mexico to Peru and Brazil, in part cultivated or naturalized. Planted in southern Florida. Also in Old World tropics, perhaps introduced. Other common names. — jobillo, jobo gusanero, jobo vano, jobo de perro (Puerto Rico) ; jobo (Spanish, commerce) ; ciruela amarilla (Domini- can Republic, Cuba, Mexico, Ecuador) ; jobo de puerco, joboban, ciruela (Dominican Republic) ; jobo hembra (Cuba) ; jocote jobo, jobo jocote (Guatemala) ; ciruela de monte, jocote (Hon- duras) ; jocote, jocote de jobo, ciruela de jobo, jocote montanero (Nicaragua) ; hogplum, wild- plum (Costa Rica, Panama) ; jobo bianco, jobo Colorado, jobo de castilla (Colombia) ; cuajo, guama zapatero (Venezuela) ; yellow mombin, hogplum (United States) ; hogplum (English) ; Bequia-plum (Bequia) ; hoba, hubu, plum-bush (British Guiana) ; mombin, monbin (French) ; mombin franc, myrobalane (Haiti) ; mombin fruits jaunes, prune mombin, prune Myrobolan (Guadeloupe) ; prunier mombin, monbinier (French Guiana) ; macaprein, hoba, yellow-plum (Dutch West Indies) ; mope (Surinam, com- merce) ; moppe, monbe, hooboo (Surinam) ; caja, caja-mirim, caja seira (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Spondias lutea L. 294 134. Jobo, hogplum, yellow niombin Two-thirds natural size. Spondias momMn L. 687-921 0—64 20 295 CASHEW FAMILY (ANACARDIACEAE) 135. Ciruela del pais, purple mombin Occasionally planted in fence rows and for its edible fruits, this small tree, frequently with gnarled branches, is characterized by : (1) pinnate leaves 4—8 inches long with 9-25 almost stalkless, elliptic, thin, yellow-green leaflets, %-lV2 inches long, rounded or short-pointed at apex, short- pointed and slightly oblique at base, with edges slightly wavy toothed; (2) small red or pink 5-parted flowers less than 14 inch across, in lateral clusters; and (3) the yellow or purplish-red, cylin- drical, slightly sour, edible fruits 1-lVi inches long. A small spreading deciduous tree to 30 feet high, with thick trunk to 1 foot in diameter, or sometimes shrubby. The bark is brown or gray, smoothish, soft, and thick, becoming rough and warty on large trunks. Inner bark is whitish and brown streaked, soft, and astringent. The large branches are brittle and easily broken. The stout twigs are green with brown dots (lenticels), be- coming brown. The leaves are alternate and with slender, angled, finely hairy, yellow-green axes. Leaflet blades are more or less paired except for terminal one, Yo-l inch broad, nearly hairless, and dull or slightly shiny. The branched flower clusters (panicles) are short and finely hairy and bear few flowers on stalks about Vs inch long when the trees are leafless or nearly so. Flowers are male or female and bi- sexual on the same tree (polygamous). The mi- nute calyx is 5-lobed ; there are 5 petals about 1/8 inch long; 10 stamens; and pistil on a disk, with usually 5-celled ovary and 3 or 4 short, styles. The short-stalked fruits (drupes) have yellow, juicy and edible pulp and a large stone */£-% inch long, which is fibrous on the outside, and contain 5 or fewer seeds. Flowering in spring and matur- ing fruits in summer. The wood is whitish, soft, lightweight, and brittle. It is seldom used, though elsewhere the ash has been employed in soapmaking. The fruits, which resemble plums (ciruelas) and have a similar flavor, are eaten raw or some- times cooked and produce wine and other alcoholic drinks. They serve also to fatten hogs and cattle. Spondias purpurea L.* In parts of Mexico and Central America this species is one of the most important fruits. The sour young shoots and leaves sometimes are eaten raw7 or cooked and are browsed by animals. Grown commonly as living fenceposts, the trees are easily propagated from cuttings and seeds. They are handsome with their small flowers and showy fruits when leafless. Elsewhere the trees have been employed to support cultivated orchids. In fence rows, along highways, and near homes in the coastal regions, commonest and largest and in a narrow strip along the base of the southern side of the Cordillera of Puerto Rico. Probably naturalized rather than native. Also in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Range. — Planted and naturalized throughout West Indies except Bahamas. Native of tropical continental America and widely distributed from central Mexico to Peru and Brazil, spread through cultivation. Planted in southern Florida. Also introduced into the Old World tropics. Other common names. — ciruela, jobillo, jobo f ranees (Puerto Rico); purple-plum (Virgin Islands) ; ciruela, ciruelo (Spanish) ; jobo, ciruela morada, ciruela sanjuanera (Dominican Repub- lic) ; ciruela colorada, ciruela campechana (Cuba) ; jocote (Mexico, Central America) ; jocote de invierno, jocote jobo, jobo, pitarrillo (El Salva- dor) ; jocote comun (Nicaragua) ; jobito (Costa Rica) ; wild-plum (Costa Rica, Panama) ; hobo Colorado, ciruelo Colorado (Colombia) ; hobo, ciruela colorada (Ecuador) ; aiuela ciruelo (Peru): purple mombin, red mombin, hogplum, Spanish-plum (United States, English) ; Jamaica- plum (Trinidad); jobo (British Honduras); cirouelle (Haiti) ; prune d'Espagne, prune du Chili (Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; prune rouge, prune jaune, mombin rouge (Guadeloupe) ; noba, makka pruim, redplum, Jamacia-plum (Dutch West Indies) ; imbuzeiro, caja, ciroela (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Spondias mombin, L. (1759, not 1753), S. cirouella Tussac, S. purpurea L. forma luten (Macfadyen) Fawcett & Rendle. The yellow-fruited form has been separated from the purple-fruited form by some authors as a species (S, cirouella Tussac). 296 135. Ciruela del pais, purple mombin Natural size. Spondias purpurea L. 297 CYRILLA FAMILY (CYRILLACEAE) 136. Palo Colorado, swamp cyrilla Palo Colorado, a large tree common in the higher mountains, is characterized by: (1) leathery, lance-shaped to narrowly elliptic leaves lVk-3% inches long, blunt and minutely notched at apex, usually turning red before falling; (2) reddish- brown, smoothish thin bark on the large crooked and twisted trunks which splits off in thin plates or scales, becoming whitish pink, spongy at base of tree; (3) leaves confined chiefly to the top of a many-branched crown, which resembles a broom in appearance; and (4) numerous crowded, small, white, 5-parted flowers % long in very narrow lateral flower clusters 3-6 inches long and only % inch broad. This evergreen tree generally becomes 50 feet high and 3 feet in diameter, rarely 60 feet in height and 6 feet in trunk diameter. On exposed moun- tain ridges and summits it may be small or shrubby. The bark on small trunks does not have the reddish-brown color noted above but is gray to brown, smoothish and minutely fissured. The inner bark is reddish to brown and bitter. Young twigs are brown, turning gray. The alternate leaves have petioles Vs-1/^ inch long. The leaf blades are variable in form and size, commonly %-l inch broad, sometimes smaller, pointed at base, with edges curved under. They are green and shiny on upper surface and pale green on lower surface. One to 10 flower clusters (spikelike racemes) on a twig are located below most of the leaves. They bear numerous short-stalked flowers %6 inch across and spreading slightly. There are 5 short, pointed sepals; 5 pointed petals y8 inch long, white or also tinged with pink; 5 stamens; and pistil with a 2-celled ovary, short style, and 2 stigmas. The many small, dry, egg-shaped fruits (drupes) Vs inch long are pink to red and contain 2 or 3 light brown seeds. Flowering and fruiting probably during most of the year. The sapwood is light brown, and the seasoned heartwood attractive dark reddish brown. This very hard, moderately heavy wood (specific gravity approximately 0.53) has fine uniform tex- ture, heavily interlocked grain, and prominent an- nual growth rings. The rate of air-seasoning is very slow, but degrade is exceptionally severe, and shrinkage is very high. Because of severe warp- ing, air-dry lumber is unfit for most commercial uses. Machining characteristics are as follows: Cyrilla racemiflora L. planing and resistance to screw splitting are ex- cellent; shaping, turning, boring, and mortising are good ; and sanding is fair. The wood is sus- ceptible to dry-wood termites. In Puerto Rico the wood is seldom used except for fuel, because of the great warping in season- ing. Also, the large, very old trunks are short, often crooked, and usually hollow. However, in Cuba the handsomely colored wood has been made into furniture. The spongy bark at the base of trunk is absorbent, pliable, and astringent and has been recommended as a styptic. Sometimes planted in the United States as an ornamental because of the graceful white, flower clusters and showy autumnal coloration of the foli- age. The flowers produce dark honey, and in Cuba the hollow trunks serve as beehives. Widely distributed in the forests of the upper mountain regions of Puerto Rico, chiefly in the Luquillo Mountains. The wild parrots native only in the Luquillo Mountains nest in these hollow trees. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Range.— Southeastern United States (near coast from southeastern Virginia to Florida and southeastern Texas), Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles in Guadeloupe, Martinique, and St. Vin- cent. Also in southern Mexico (Oaxaca) and British Honduras and from Venezuela to Guianas and northern Brazil. According to its unusual northward distribu- tion, this species is one of the hardiest native trees of Puerto Rico in resistance to cold. Growing wild north to southeastern Virginia, it has been cultivated farther north in eastern United States to New England. Over most of the wide range a small tree or shrub of swamps and river banks but in the mountains of the Greater Antilles it be- comes a large tree. Other common names. — Colorado (Puerto Rico) ; granado, palo Colorado, sabina macho (Do- minican Republic) ; barril, clavellina, llorona, yanilla (Cuba) ; piojillo, piojito (Venezuela) ; swamp cyrilla, American cyrilla, leatherwood, southern leatherwood, titi, white titi (United States) ; bloodwood, beetwood (Jamaica) ; wari- miri (British Guiana) ; bois couche, olivier mon- tagne (Guadeloupe). Botanical synonym. — Cyrilla antillana Michx. 298 136. Palo Colorado, swamp cyrilla Cyrilla racemiflora L. Natural size. 299 BLADDERNUT FAMILY (STAPHYLEACEAE) 137. Sauco cimarron This small or medium-sized tree is character- ized by: (1) opposite pinnate leaves with 5-11 el- liptic or ovate leaflets also paired except for the terminal one, the edges minutely saw-toothed; (2) numerous small 5-parted greenish-white flowers about Vi inch across in a large broad, branched, terminal cluster; and (3) nearly round or slightly 3-lobed fruits Vo-3A inch in diameter, mostly on long, slender, spreading stalks. An evergreen tree commonly less than 30 feet high and 6 inches in trunk diameter with an open crown, hairless throughout except for young twigs and young leaves. The gray bark is much fissured and thin. Inner bark is brown and almost taste- less. The brown twigs are stout and slightly fissured. The leaves, 5-10 inches long, have a slender light green or pinkish-tinged axis, and the leaflets have short stalks V$-% inch long. Leaflet blades are 1V2-4 inches long and V2_2% inches broad, mostly short-pointed at apex and rounded or short-pointed at base, the saw-toothed edges often wavy, thin or very slightly thickened, green and often shiny on upper surface, light green beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) are mostly 6-12 inches long and nearly as broad and have long, slender, horizontally spreading, light green branches bearing many short-stalked fragrant flowers. The calyx consists of 5 light green un- equal elliptic sepals less than Vs mcn long, remain- Turpinia paniculata Vent. ing on fruit ; there are 5 white rounded petals more than % mch l°ng; 5 whitish stamens Vs mcn long; and pistil Vs inch long on a lobed disk with 3- lobed, 3-celled ovary and 3 united styles which often remain on the fruit as points or hooks. The rounded fruits are broader than long and slightly 3-angled, turning from green to brown, dry but not splitting open, 3-celled. There are 3-6 shiny light brown elliptic seeds V4 inch long. Flowering chiefly in spring (February to June), the fruits maturing in summer and fall (July to October) . The sapwood is whitish and hard. The heart- wood is moderately resistant to attack by dry- wood termites. Reported to be brittle, the wood is used only for fuel. Lower and upper mountain forests of Puerto Rico, ascending to summits of peaks. Also in Tortola. Public forests. — Carite, Guajataca, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Municipality where especially common. — 10. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Tortola. Also from southern Mexico and Guate- mala to Panama. Other common names. — sauquillo, lilayo, eu- genio (Puerto Rico) ; cedro hembra (Dominican Republic) ; sauco cimarron, roble giiira, serrucho (Cuba) ; cedrillo (El Salvador) ; cajeta, tinta (Guatemala). 300 137. Sauco cimarrSn Two-thirds natural size. Turpinia paniculata Vent. SOAPBERRY FAMILY (SAPINDACEAE) Key to the 6 species illustrated (Nos. 138-143) A. Leaves simple, elliptic, the edges finely toothed — 142. Thouinia portoricensis. AA. Leaves compound. B. Leaflets 3, elliptic or obovate, broadest beyond middle, short-pointed at both ends, toothed on edges — 143. Thouinia striata. BB. Leaflets pinnate, 4 or more (sometimes only 2). C. Leaflets 4-8, not paired, with wavy-toothed edges, elliptic, those toward apex largest, rounded or notched at apex — 138. Cupania americana. CC. Leaflets mostly paired, not toothed. D. Leaflets 2-8, rounded or blunt-pointed at apex, on slender reddish or dark brown axis; fruit a flattened seed capsule— 139. Matayba doming ensis. DD. Leaflets long- or short-pointed at both ends, on axis often winged ; fruit round, fleshy. E. Leaflets 4, the pair at apex larger, fruit %-l% inches in diameter, edible — 140. Melicoccus Mjugatus.* EE. Leaflets usually 6-12, sometimes only 1 at end ; fruit %-l inch in diameter, yellow, inedible — 141. Sapindus saponaria. 138. Guara Cupania americana L. This tree is characterized by : (1 ) twigs and leaf axes brown hairy; (2) pinnate leaves with 4—8 al- ternate elliptic or obovate leaflets, those toward apex largest, rounded or notched at apex, short- pointed at base, with wavy toothed edges, the up- per surface shiny green and hairy only on veins, and the lower surface paler and densely soft hairy; (3) numerous small whitish 5-parted flow- ers y8 inch across, in mostly terminal branched clusters; and (4) the rounded seed capsules Yo-^A inch long, bluntly 3-lobed, velvety-brown or rusty- brown hairy, splitting into 3 parts and exposing 3 rounded shiny blackish seeds %6 inch long, each in an orange cup. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree attain- ing 20-50 feet in height and 10 inches in trunk diameter with a broadly spreading rounded crown. The gray bark is smoothish or becoming rough and fissured into plates. Inner bark is light brown and slightly bitter. The twigs are stout. The leaves are alternate, 5-10 inches long, with stout axes. Leaflets have short hairy stalks V8-1/4 inch long and blades li/2-6 inches long and %-2% inches broad and slightly thickened. The flower clusters (panicles) 4-8 inches long have brown hairy branches. Flowers are male, female, and bisexual (polygamous). There are 5 hairy sepals nearly % inch long; 5 hairy, narrow stalked petals about as long as sepals, each with 2 scales on the outer edges; 8 stamens on a disk; and pistil composed of hairy 3-celled ovary with short style and 3 stigmas. Seed capsules commonly are many and crowded in terminal branched clusters, short-stalked at base, opening widely into 3 parts, retaining the 3 seeds attached for some time. Flowering in winter and early spring (December to March) and ma- turing fruits in spring and summer. The wood is light brown and hard, of medium weight (specific gravity 0.4). Very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Used in Puerto Rico chiefly for posts and poles and elsewhere for con- struction and shipbuilding. This species has been suggested as an ornamental and shade tree. The seeds and leaves sometimes serve for medicinal purposes. Also a honey plant. Forests, especially along streams, in the moist coast, moist limestone, and lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susiia, Vega. Range. — Greater Antilles and in Lesser Antilles only in Dominica, Martinique, and Barbados, and in Trinidad and Tobago. Also in Colombia and Venezuela. Other common names. — guara blanca (Puerto Rico) ; guarana, guara (Dominican Republic) ; guara, guara comun, guarano, guarana macho, guarana hembra (Cuba) ; guacharaco (Colom- bia) ; guara, patillo. zapatero, cabimo, guamo guara, guamo matias (Venezuela) ; candlewood- tree (Barbados) ; maraquil (Trinidad) ; bois de satanier (Haiti). A closely related species of guara (Cupania triquetra A. Rich.) in Puerto Rico differs in hav- ing twigs and seed capsules with shorter yellow- brown hairs and the seed capsules sharply 3-angled and on longer stalks. 302 138. Guara Natural size. Cupania americana L. 303 139. Negra lora SOAPBERRY FAMILY (SAPINDACEAE) Matayba domingensis (DC.) Radlk. This medium-sized tree of mountain forests is characterized by : ( 1 ) pinnate leaves with 2-8 paired elliptic or lance-shaped stiff and leathery leaflets l^fo-^A inches long and ^-l^ inches broad, on a slender reddish or dark brown axis, rounded or blunt -pointed at apex and short- pointed at base, the upper surface shiny green and with many slightly raised lateral veins, pale or with a brownish cast beneath; (2) minute 4- or 5-parted flowers less than % inch long and broad, numerous in lateral branched flower clusters; and (3) odd, reverse heart-shaped (obcordate) dark brown or blackish seed capsules 1/£-% inch long and broad, mostly flattened and less than %6 inch thick. An evergreen tree attaining 30-60 feet in height and 1% feet in trunk diameter, with a compact, slightly spreading crown. The bark is dark brown, smoothish, about Vi inch thick, often spot- ted with an orange-red lichen. Inner bark is red- dish brown, bitter and gritty. The twigs are red- dish brown or dark brown, finely hairy when young. Some leaves are alternate and others opposite, 3-8 inches long. Leaflets have short stalks Vs-1/4 inch long and blades with minute lighter dots, not toothed on edges. Flower clusters (panicles) are 1-4 inches long, with finely hairy branches. The numerous hairy flowers are male, female, and bisexual (polyga- mous). There are 4 or 5 pointed sepals, 4 or 5 smaller petals, 8 stamens on a disk, and pistil with usually 2-celled ovary, style, and 2 stigmas. Seed capsules are slightly stalked, hard, com- monly 2-lobed and 2- or 1 -seeded, reported as also 3-lobed. The shiny black seeds are %6 inch long and flat. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood uniform pinkish brown or reddish brown. The wood is attractive, very hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.70), strong, fine- textured, of usually ir- regular and interlocked grain, and has a distinc- tive foul odor. The rate of air-seasoning is low, and amount of degrade is moderate. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing and resist- ance to screw splitting are fair ; and shaping, turn- ing, boring, mortising, and sanding are good. The wood is moderately difficult to saw and dulls cut- ting edges. It is very susceptible to damage by dry-wood termites and other insects and is not durable. Chief uses in Puerto Rico are posts and poles, though preservative treatment is recommended. The wood is suitable for furniture, cabinetwork, turnery, interior trim, flooring, handles, agricul- tural implements, vehicle bodies, and light and heavy construction. Forests of the transition zone between the lower and upper mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico. Other common names. — doncella, tea cima- rrona, raton, escoba (Puerto Rico) ; raton, guara (Dominican Republic): caraicillo, macurije (Cuba). A second species known as doncella (Matayba oppositifolia (A.Rich.) Britton) has oblong leaf- lets short- or long-pointed at apex and the leaves opposite. It apparently is rare in mountain forests of Puerto Rico. 304 139. Negra lora Natural size. Matayba domingensis (DC.) RadLk. 305 SOAPBERRY FAMILY (SAPINDACEAE) 140. Quenepa, kinep, Spanish-lime Quenepa is a familiar exotic tree planted for its edible f rait and shade. It is distinguished by : ( 1 ) erect form and a dense symmetrical globular crown of dull light green foliage ; (2) pinnate leaves with 4 paired elliptic leaflets 3-5 inches long and 1*4- 2^4 inches broad, long- or short-pointed at both ends and slightly oblique at base, almost stalkless along an axis sometimes winged; and (3) small greenish -white fragrant flowers about %6 inch across, very numerous in terminal branched clus- ters; and (4) round or elliptic green fruits y^-iy^ inches in diameter with thin, sweet and acid, juicy flesh and 1 (sometimes 2) large seed. An evergreen tree becoming 40-60 feet high, with trunk 1-2 feet in diameter, slightly angled and fluted. The bark is gray and smoothish, the inner bark orange brown, gritty, and tasteless. Twigs are brown or gray, greenish when young. The alternate leaves are 6-8 inches long, with light green axis 2^-3 inches long. Leaflets are thin, not toothed on edges, the pair at apex larger. Flower clusters (panicles) are 3-6 inches long and broad, with several to many narrow branches. Flowers are mostly male and female on different trees but partly of both sexes (polygamous), on spreading stalks V4 mcn l°ng- Calyx is deeply 4- or 5-lobed, the lobes more than y16 inch long; there are 4 or 5 rounded greenish-white petals about y8 inch long; 8-10 stamens on a disk; and pistil composed of 2- or 3-celled ovary with short style and 2- or 3-lobed stigma. Fruits (drapes), borne in clusters, are marketed for their thin flesh, which is gelatinous and slight- ly fibrous, yellowish to salmon colored, and sug- gestive of grapes. The pale yellow elliptic seeds Melicoccus bijugatus Jacq.* 3/i-l% inches long are edible when roasted. Flowering in spring (April to June), the f raits maturing from June to September. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood light brown or pale yellow gray. The wood is of medium weight and fairly hard but reportedly not resistant to decay. Elsewhere it has been used in construction, interior work, and cabinets. Besides furnishing fruit and shade, the trees are honey plants, their pleasantly scented flowers at- tracting bees. Planted as a fruit and shade tree and along highways in Puerto Rico and escaping from culti- vation. Commonest in the dry coastal region. Also in Mona, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native of Colombia, Venezuela, and Guianas. Widely planted and escaping or na- turalized throughout West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Curacao. Cultivated also in southern Florida and California, Bermuda, Central America, Ecuador, and perhaps elsewhere in tropical America. Also introduced in Asia. Other common names. — genip, ginep (Virgin Islands) ; mamon (Spanish, commerce) ; mamon- cillo (Spanish) ; quenepa (Puerto Rico, Colom- bia) ; limoncillo, quenepa (Dominican Republic) ; escanjocote (Nicaragua) ; mamon de Cartagena (Costa Rica) ; Spanish-lime, genip, mamoncillo (United States) ; genip (English) ; chenet (Trini- dad) ; quenepe (Haiti) ; quenette, quenettier, kene- pier (Guadeloupe) ; quenette (French Guiana) ; kenepa, kinnup-tree (Dutch West Indies) ; knip- pen (Surinam). Botanical synonym. — Melicocca bijuga L. 306 140. Quenepa, kinep, Spanish-lime Two-thirds natural size. Melicoccus Mjugatus Jacq. SOAPBERRY FAMILY (SAPINDACEAE) 141. Jaboncillo, wingleaf soapberry Small to medium-sized tree sometimes planted for shade, characterized by: (1) pinnate leaves 8-16 inches long, with usually 6-12 paired elliptic to lance-shaped dull green leaflets, the green axis often with a wing i/j-Vo inch wide; (2) very nu- merous small 5-parted whitish flowers %6 inch across in large branched lateral clusters 6-18 inches long; and (3) shiny brown ball-like berries %-l inch in diameter, borne singly or sometimes 2 or 3 together, containing yellow, sticky, bitter, poison- ous flesh and 1 round black poisonous seed. An evergreen tree 20-60 feet high and 1 foot in trunk diameter, sometimes larger, with broad crown. The light gray or brown bark is smoothish and warty, becoming finely fissured and scaly. Inner bark is light orange brown, slightly bitter and astringent. The stout twigs are light gray with raised reddish-brown dots (lenticels), finely hairy when young. The alternate leaves have paired leaflets with or without a single terminal one. Leaflets are stalk- less or nearly so, 2y2-Q inches long and l-2!/2 inches wide, mostly short-pointed at both ends, often oblique and unequal-sided with side toward leaf apex much broader, thin, not toothed on edges, beneath slightly paler and sometimes soft hairy. The male flowers produced in great quantities seem to fall from the tree almost like rain and litter the ground beneath. Flowers are mostly male but some are female or bisexual (polygamous). In male flowers there are 5 spreading sepals about y16 inch long, unequal, the outer 2 being smaller, whitish and tinged with green ; 5 white hairy petals rounded and smaller than sepals; 8 light yellow stamens more than y16 inch long on a light green disk; and a minute brown nonfunctional pistil. Female flowers have besides the sepals and petals shorter stamens and a greenish pistil more than y16 inch long with 3-celled ovary and slender style. One or sometimes 2 or 3 fruits develop from a pistil, the abortive ones remaining as disklike ap- pendages at base. Inside the translucent yellow flesh is the poisonous seed %-M> inch in diameter. Branches of the flower cluster (panicle) become hard and woody when the fruits mature. Sapwood is whitish, and heartwood yellow or Sapindus saponaria L. light brown. The wood is hard and heavy (spe- cific gravity 0.8) , coarse-textured, and not durable when exposed. Used locally for posts and else- where employed in carpentry. The common names refer to the use of the fleshy fruit as a substitute for soap. When cut up, the fleshy part, which contains about 30 percent sap- onin, produces suds abundantly in water. Crushed seeds serve as a fish poison when thrown into a stream. An insecticide has been made from ground seeds, and medicinal oil ex- tracted also. Other uses of the seeds are as beads in necklaces, as marbles, and formerly as buttons. Infusions of the roots and leaves have been pre- pared for home remedies. A shade tree and honey plant. In the dry coastal region of Puerto Rico, infre- quently planted for shade. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Public forest.- — Aguirre. Range. — Common and widely distributed in tropical America and spread farther through cul- tivation. Southern Florida including Florida Keys (grown also in California and Bermuda) and throughout West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad. Also from Mexico to Ecuador, Galapagos Islands, Peru, Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. Introduced into Old World tropics. Other common names. — soapberry (Virgin Islands) ; jaboncillo (Spanish) ; palo amargo, chorote, mata de chivo (Dominican Republic) ; giiiril, huiril, jaboncillal (Guatemala) ; paeon (Honduras) ; paciin (El Salvador) ; paeon, cuyus (Nicaragua) ; limoncillo (Panama) ; chumbino, chumbimbo, chocho (Colombia) ; paraparo, pepo (Venezuela) ; jurupe (Ecuador) ; sulluco (Peru) ; jisotoubo (Bolivia) ; yequiti, casita, palo-jabon (Argentina) ; wingleaf soapberry, soapberry (United States) ; soapberry (English) ; soapseed Trinidad) ; soap-tree, soapseed-tree, jabon-che (British Honduras) ; savonette pays, graine can- ique, bois savonette (Haiti) ; savonier, savonettier, savonette montagne, bois mausseux, savonette mousseuse (Guadeloupe) ; savonetapel (Curasao) ; sopo sirie (Surinam) ; saboeiro, saboneteiro (Brazil). 308 141. Jaboncillo, wingleaf soapberry Natural size. Sapindus saponaria L. 309 142. Serrasuela SOAPBERRY FAMILY (SAPINDACEAE) Thouinia portoricensis Radlk. This small tree or shrub restricted to dry south- western Puerto Rico is distinguished by: (1) few slender spreading branches and without a definite crown; (2) leathery elliptic leaves simple (some- times compound with 3 leaflets), rounded at apex and short-pointed at base, the edges finely toothed, shiny green above and pale green and densely soft. hairy with prominent veins beneath; (3) many small whitish flowers %6 inch across, 4- or 5- parted, in narrow branched lateral clusters l-2y2 inches long; and (4) brown narrow key fruits V2- % inch long, usually 3 attached together. This species is closely related to the next species, ceboru- quillo (Thouinia striata Radlk.), a large tree hav- ing compound leaves with 3 thinner leaflets and smaller flowers. Intermediate individuals have been found. A deciduous tree becoming 15 feet high and 3 inches in trunk diameter. The gray bark is rough, fissured and divided into thin scaly plates. Inner bark is brownish and slightly bitter. Twigs are brownish green, finely hairy when young, becom- ing gray. The alternate leaves have finely brownish hairy petioles %-lV£ inches long. The blade is usually simple and 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide, the upper surface nearly hairless except on veins. Sometimes there are 3 stalkless leaflets at end of petiole, the 2 lateral leaflets much smaller, ^s-!1/^ inches long. The densely hairy flower clusters (thyrses) are attached along the twigs, often at leaf bases. Flowers are male, female, and bisexual (polyg- amous), borne on short stalks less than % inch long. There are 4 or 5 greenish hairy sepals more than V16 inch long and rounded at apex ; 4 or 5 white petals less than Vs inch long; 8 stamens Vs inch long on a disk; and pistil Vs inch long with hairy 3-celled ovary of 3 nearly separate lobes and 3 -forked style rising between lobes. The dry fruits (samaras), usually 3 developing from a flower, are finely hairy, enclosed 1 seed at base, and have a long narrow curved wing %6 inch wide. Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The sapwood is light brown and hard. The wood is little used. Forests and thickets of the dry limestone region of southwestern Puerto Rico. Public forest. — Guanica. Municipalities where especially common. — 28, 38, 54. Range. — Confined to southwestern Puerto Rico. Other common name. — quebracho (Puerto Rico) . Botanical synonym. — Thy ana portoricensis (Radlk.) Britton. 310 142. Serrasuela Natural size. Thouinia striata Radlk. 687-921 O— 64 21 311 143. Ceboruquillo SOAPBERRY FAMILY (SAPINDACEAE) Thouinia striata Radlk. A small to medium-sized tree of Puerto Rico recognized by : (1) compound leaves with 3 elliptic or obovate leaflets, the middle leaflet largest, broad- est beyond middle, saw-toothed on edges, and short-pointed at apex and base, the lower surface soft hairy and with prominent veins; (2) small whitish flowers less than % inch long and broad, 4-parted, numerous, and short-stalked in very nar- row clusters 1V&-4 inches long and % inch wide at leaf bases; and (3) brown narrow winged key fruits %-3/4 inch long, borne in 3's. An evergreen tree to 50 feet in height and 8 inches in trunk diameter, with an erect crown. The bark is gray, rough, broken into thin rectan- gular scaly plates. Inner bark is light brown and slightly bitter. The brownish twigs are finely hairy, green when young. The alternate leaves are 4—8 inches long, with leaflets at the end of a minutely hairy petiole V^-21/^ inches long, the leaflets with short stalks about i/& inch long. Leaflet blades are 2^-6 inches long and 1-3 inches broad, slightly thickened, the upper surface yellow green and hairless except on veins, the lower surface light green and densely soft hairy. The lateral flower clusters (panicles) commonly have 2 main finely hairy branches. Flowers are male, female, and bisexual (polygamous), borne on stalks less than y% inch long. There are 4 yellow-green hairy sepals less than y16 inch long; 4 white narrow hairy petals more than y16 inch long, notched at apex; 8 stamens on a disk; and pistil composed of hairy 3-celled ovary and slen- der style 3-lobed at apex. The fruits (samaras) are dark brown at the nar- row base, slightly hairy, 1-seeded, with a long light brown wing 14 inch broad. Flowering and fruit- ing from spring to fall. The sapwood is light brown. The wood is hard, tough, and heavy (specific gravity 0.9). It is used chiefly for posts. Forests of the moist limestone and lower Cordil- lera regions in western Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Mari- cao, Rio Abajo, Susua. Municipalities where especially common. — 7, 9, 23, 24, 31, 34, 68. Range. — Known only from Puerto Rico. Other common names. — quiebra-hacha, que- bracha, serrasuela, guaba (Puerto Rico). Botanical synonym. — Thy ana striata (Radlk.) Britton. 312 143. Ceboruquillo Two-thirds natural size. Thouinia striata Radlk. 313 SABIA FAMILY (SABIACEAE) 144. Aguacatillo A medium-sized, tree of mountain forests char- acterized by: (1) petioles with an enlargement at base and %-l1/4 inches long; (2) dark green ellip- tic leaves mostly broadest beyond the middle, 3-8 (sometimes 10) inches long and 1V&-3-/4 (some- times 4) inches wide, short-pointed or blunt at apex, short-pointed at base, edges not toothed ex- cept on young plants; (3) very numerous minute white 5-parted flowers less than Vs inch long and broad in much-branched clusters; and (4) few to many nearly round fruits %-% inch long, dark brown, violet, or black, and fleshy. An evergreen tree reaching 30-60 feet in height and 2 feet in trunk diameter. The bark is smooth - ish but slightly warty, gray, and thin, becoming fissured on large trunks. Inner bark is brownish and bitter. The grajr twigs, hairless except when young, have scattered reddish-brown, corky warts (lenticels) % inch or less in length. The leaves are alternate, with the few lateral veins sunken, slightly shiny on both sides, and paler beneath. Young plants produce larger leaves. The branched flower clusters (panicles) are ter- minal and lateral, 2-8 inches long and broad, and minutely hairy. The flowers have a few minute, hairy, overlapping scales at base. There are 5 rounded overlapping sepals y16 inch long, with hairy border, remaining attached at base of fruit; petals 5, white, the outer 3 larger and more than y16 inch long and 2 small narrow scales; 5 stamens opposite the petals and united with them at base, 2 fertile stamens opposite the small petals and 3 sterile (staminodes) ; and pistil with ovary, style, and 2 minute stigmas. Fruits (drupes) are light green when immature, nearly round but longer than broad, have a large 1 -seeded stone, and remain attached for some time. Meliosma herbertii Rolfe Flowering and fruiting nearly through the year. The sapwood is light brown, and the attractive heartwood light brown with darker streaks and often an attractive orange overcast. The wood is moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.42), firm, tough, with moderately coarse texture, straight to frequently interlocked grain, and faint growth rings. It is low in durability and very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. The rate of air- seasoning is moderate, but the amount of degrade is considerable. Machining characteristics are as follows : planing and resistance to screw splitting are excellent; shaping, turning, boring, and mor- tising are poor; and sanding is good. Few trees become large enough for commercial timber. Uses elsewhere include construction and carpentry. Though difficult to work, the wood is suitable also for furniture, cabinetwork, paneling, interior trim, and boxes and crates. Forests of the lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Tortola. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Toro Negro. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Tortola, and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to Grenada. Also in northeastern Venezuela. Other common names. — arroyo, cacaillo, cacao bobo (Puerto Rico) ; cacao cimarron, cacao bobo (Dominican Republic); gross grain (Grenada); bois violet, graines violettes, graines vertes (Guadeloupe) ; wild cocoa (Trinidad). Arroyo {Meliosma obtusifolia (Bello) Krug & Urban) is a related, less common tree species known only from mountain forests of Puerto Rico. It has leaves rounded at apex and smaller nearly round fruits about % inch in diameter. Other common names are cacaillo, cerrillo, ciralillo, and guayarote. 314 144. Aguacatillo Two-thirds natural size. Meliosma Herbert ii Rolfe 315 BUCKTHORN FAMILY (RHAMNACEAE) Key to the 4 species illustrated (Nos. 145-148) A. Leaves with 1 main vein or midrib, edges not toothed ; twigs not spiny. B. Leaves mostly short-pointed at apex, lateral veins curved and prolonged near margins. C. Leaves slightly thickened, the lower surface, petioles, and twigs with rusty brown hairs, especially when young — 145. Colubrina arborcscens. CC. Leaves thin, the lower surface pale green and minutely hairy — 146. Colubrina reclinata. BB. Leaves rounded at both ends and slightly notched at apex, nearly hairless — 147. Krugiodendron fcrreum. AA. Leaves with 3 main veins from base, edges often minutely toothed ; twigs with paired or single spines — 148. Sarcomphalus reticulatus. 145. Abeyuelo, coffee colubrina This usually small tree is identified by: (1) rusty-brown hairs on young twigs, young leaves, veins or lower surface of mature leaves, petioles, and flower clusters; (2) slightly thickened elliptic leaves IV2-6 inches long and %-3 inches broad, blunt- or short -pointed at apex and rounded at base, with the prominent lateral veins curved and prolonged near margins, the upper surface slight- ly shiny green and nearly hairless, and the lower surface lighter green and finely hairy; (3) small, spreading, 5-parted, greenish and rusty-brown hairy flowers %6_1/4 incn across in small lateral clusters; and (4) rounded dark brown or blackish seed capsules about Vi mcn m diameter, 3-seeded. Commonly 10-15 feet high and 2 inches or less in trunk diameter but sometimes 25 feet or more in height, evergreen, with spreading crown. Bark of small trees is brown or gray, smoothish, and thin, peeling off in small thin flakes, on larger trunks becoming fissured. Inner bark is light brown or pink and slightly bitter. Older twigs are gray or reddish brown. Leaves are alternate in 2 rows and have petioles VatVz inch long. Blades are IV2-6 inches long and %-3 inches broad, not toothed on edges. Trees planted in moist sites of Puerto Rico are so different in their more vigorous rapid growth that they scarcely seem to represent the same spe- cies. They become 40-50 feet in height and 6-10 inches in trunk diameter, with long stout nearly horizontal branches bearing 2 rows of large coarse leaves. These much larger leaves have stout peti- oles %-l inch long and blades 8-11 inches long and 4—6 inches wide. The flowers are similar, though the seed capsules may be slightly larger. The drawings illustrate both the typical and large- leaf forms. Flower clusters are 1/2 hrch across or smaller, almost stalkless, with several, mostly short-stalked flowers. The short cuplike base (hypanthium) bears 5 spreading, pointed sepals more than y16 inch long, greenish and on outside rusty-brown hairy, and 5 smaller narrow yellow petals folded around the 5 opposite stamens; and the pistil con- sists of 3-eelled ovary covered by the broad disk, a style, and 3 stigmas. Colubrina arborescens (Mill.) Sarg. Seed capsules, borne few to several together along twig mostly back of leaves, are nearly round or slightly 3-lobed, with cuplike base (hypan- thium) in lowest third to half, splitting into 3 parts and separating from base. The shiny black seeds are V8~44 inch long. Flowering and fruiting probably irregularly from spring to fall. The sap wood is whitish or light brown, the heartwood yellowish brown. The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.7), strong, and durable. Used chiefly for posts in Puerto Rico and formerly for piling because of resistance to decay in water. Elsewhere employed in construction where suffi- ciently large. Planted as a shade tree in southern Florida, Guatemala, and El Salvador. Recent forest plan- tations of this species in the Guilarte Forest con- tain rapid-growing trees of good form. The shiny seeds of this and related species have been made into necklaces and similar ornaments in Jamaica. Thickets and forests in the coastal and lime- stone regions, chiefly in the drier areas of Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Icacos, Vieques, Culebra, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada. Public forests. — Boqueron, Cambalache, Gua- jataca, Guanica, Guilarte, Rio Aba jo. Municipality where especially common. — 49. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys and West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Antigua and in Barbados. Also southern Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, and introduced in El Salvador. Other common names. — corazon de paloma, cuerno de buey (Dominican Republic) ; bijaguara, birijagua, fuego (Cuba) ; cascalata (Mexico) ; coxte, costex, guayabillo (Guatemala) ; chaquirio, chaquira (El Salvador) ; coffee colubrina, naked- wood, wild-coffee (United States) ; common snake- bark, bitters (Bahamas) ; greenheart, snake-wood, black velvet, wild ebony, mountain ebony (Ja- maica) ; blackbead-tree (Barbados) ; bois de fer, bois mabi, bois pel£, bois ferblanc (Haiti). Botanical synonyms. — Colubrina colubrina (Jacq.) Millsp., C ferruginosa, Brongn. 316 145. Abeyuelo, coffee colubrina Typical form (above) and large-leaf form (below), two-thirds natural size. Colubrina arborescens (Mill.) Sarg. BUCKTHORN FAMILY (RHAMNACEAE) 146. Mabi, soldierwood This small tree or shrub of dry areas is charac- terized by : (1) finely hairy brown twigs; (2) thin, elliptic leaves 1-3 inches long and V^-lVij inches broad, short-pointed at apex and rounded at base, with the lateral veins curved and prolonged near margins, green and hairless on upper surface, and pale green and minutely hairy beneath; (3) the small, spreading greenish 5-parted flowers nearly 3/16 mcn across, several in almost stalkless clusters at bases of leaves; and (4) the rounded, slightly 3-angled, reddish- brown seed capsules V4 inch in diameter, 3-seeded. Evergreen, usually 10-15 feet high and less than 4 inches in trunk diameter, with spreading crown of thin foliage. The orange-brown bark is smoothish on small trunks but becomes fissured, splitting off in thin scales. Inner bark is light, brown and bitter. The twigs are slender. The alternate leaves have hairy petioles V4-1/£ inch long. The blades commonly have 2 brown gland dots on the margin near base. Flower clusters about Vi inch across, hairy. Each flower has a short cuplike base (hypanthium) on which are borne 5 spreading, pointed, greenish sepals more than Vi6 inch long, hairy on outside, and 5 smaller, narrow, yellow petals folded around the 5 opposite stamens; the pistil has a 3-celled ovary covered by the broad disk but with style and 3 stigmas protruding. Colubrina reclinata (L'Her.) Brongn. Seed capsules have a cuplike base (hypanthium) in lowest third and split apart from the base to release the shiny brownish-black elliptic seeds %6 inch long. In flower from July to November and in fruit from July to January. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood dark brown. The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.8), strong, and reported to be durable. It is used only for posts in Puerto Rico. From the bark is produced the popular fer- mented drink "mabi." Elsewhere decoctions from the bitter bark and the leaves have been used in local medicines. The plants have been grown as ornamentals in southern Florida. Thickets and woods in the dry coastal and dry limestone regions of southwestern Puerto Rico. Also in Culebra, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Anegada. Public forest. — Guanica. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bahamas, Greater Antilles, and Lesser Antilles south to St. Vincent. Also in southern Mexico (Veracruz and Yucatan) and Guatemala. Other common names. — palo amargo, mabi (Dominican Republic) ; jayajabico, carbonero de costa, carbonero (Cuba) ; soldierwood, naked- wood (United States) ; smooth snake-bark (Bahamas) ; bois mabi, bois de fer (Haiti) ; bois mabi, mambee (Guadeloupe). 318 146. Mabd, soldierwood Natural size. Colubrina reclinata (L'Her.) Brongn. 319 BUCKTHORN FAMILY (RHAMNACEAE) 147. Bariaco, "ironwood," leadwood One of several similar species with small leaves, this small tree or shrub is characterized by : (1) densely leafy spreading branches in horizon- tal layers; (2) mostly opposite, nearly hairless, elliptic (sometimes ovate) leaves %-2 inches long and !/^— 114 inches broad, rounded at both ends and slightly notched at apex, reddish when immature, later green or yellow green, shiny on upper sur- face and dull beneath; (3) yellow-green 5-parted flowers 3/16 inch across, a few in clusters Vi-1/^ inch long at leaf bases; and (4) elliptic dark brown or black fruits Vi-% inch long. An evergreen tree or shrub commonly 10-15 feet high and 2-6 inches in trunk diameter. The gray bark is smoothish or slightly fissured, becoming ridged and scaly on large trunks. Inner bark is reddish brown, slightly bitter. The slender twigs are minutely hairy, gray or light brown, the young green portions bearing the lateral flowers. Raised leaf scars and dots (lenticels) make the twigs slightly rough. The leaves have short, finely hairy petioles V&-%6 i,lch long and blades usually slightly thick- ened, not toothed on edges. Flower clusters (cymes) have 5 or fewer flowers, each on a stalk about Vs inch long. The short cup- shaped base (hypanthium) is less than V16 long, bearing 5 spi'eading pointed yellow-green sepals y16 inch long and 5 stamens; the pistil Vi6 inch long bordered by the disk has ovary, short style, and 2 stigmas. Petals are lacking. The fruits (drupes) are 1-seeded. Flowering and fruiting at different times during the year. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood is orange brown to dark brown, streaked. The wood is exceedingly hard, exceedingly heavy (spe- cific gravity 1.3-1.4), very fine-textured, and very Krugiodendron ferreum (Vahl) Urban resistant to decay and to attack by dry-wood ter- mites. Because of the small size of local trees, the wood has little use in Puerto Rico except for posts. Used elsewhere for cabinetwork, veneer, cross- ties, and canes. The wood is one of the densest in the world, the heaviest of the native woods in the United States and perhaps also of Puerto Rico. Thickets and woods in the limestone regions of Puerto Rico, mostly in the southwest. Also Mona, Desecheo, Caja de Muertos, Icacos, Culebra, Vie- ques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Anegada. Public forests. — Guajataca, Guanica. Range. — Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bahamas, Greater Antilles, Lesser Antilles south to St, Vincent and Bequia, and in Bonaire and Curagao. Also in southern Mexico, Guate- mala, British Honduras, and Honduras. Other common names. — espejuelo, palo de hierro, quiebra-hacha (Puerto Rico) ; ironwood, guatafer, bois de fer (Virgin Islands) ; quiebra- hacha, ciguamo, palo de hierro (Dominican Re- public) ; cocuyo, hueso de tortuga, coronel, carey de costa, palo diablo, acero (Cuba) ; quiebra-hacha (Guatemala) ; leadwood, black-ironwood (United States) ; black-ironwood (Jamaica) ; axemaster, quebracho (British Honduras) ; bois de fer (Haiti, Guadeloupe) ; manggel cora, ironberry (Dutch West Indies). The generic name means Krug's tree, This genus of a single species was dedicated to Leopold Krug (1833-98), German consul in Puerto Rico, businessman, botanist, and patron of science, who studied the flora of the West Indies. 320 147. Bariaco, "ironwood," leadwood Natural size. Krugiodendron ferreum (Vahl) Urban 321 148. Cascarroya BUCKTHORN FAMILY (RHAMNACEAE) Sarcomphalus reticulatus (Vahl) Urban This small tree of dry forests is distinguished by : ( 1 ) small gray or brown spines Vs~% inch long, paired or single at some nodes; (2) densely rusty hairy twigs; (3) mostly small, thickened, stiff and brittle elliptic leaves 1-3 inches long and %-2 inches broad, rounded at both ends, with 3 main veins from base, the lower surface with prom- inent network of raised veins and finely soft hairy ; (4) many small yellow-green 5-parted flowers %6 inch across, finely and densely hairy, in branched clusters; and (5) elliptic brown fruits %-% incn long, with brown hairy base ^ inch across. An evergreen tree or shrub to 20 feet high and 4 inches in trunk diameter. The dark gray or brown bark is smoothish. Inner bark is dark red, gritty, and tasteless. The brown or gray twigs are angled when young. The alternate leaves have short hairy petioles about % incn l°ng- Leaf blades are often slight- ly heart-shaped at base, with edges often minute- ly toothed and turned under, the upper surface green to dark green, dull or a little shiny, finely hairy or becoming nearly hairless, with slightly sunken veins, and the lower surface light green. The flower clusters (panicles) are mostly ter- minal, V2-2yo inches long, densely hairy, and bear many crowded, almost stalkless, slightly fragrant flowers less than y% inch long. The conical green hairy base (hypanthium) y16 inch long bears 5 spreading, pointed, yellow-green sepals Vi6 inch long, hairy on outside, 5 minute long-stalked con- cave pale yellow petals y16 inch long, and 5 sta- mens opposite the petals and the same length; and within the yellow-green disk is the pistil y16 inch long composed of a green hairy 3-celled ovary and 3 styles united below. The fruits (drupes), a few in a cluster, are slightly longer than broad, light green and turn- ing to brown, finely hairy or hairless. The large stone encloses 3 or fewer shiny brown flattened seeds. Flowering and fruiting in summer. The wood is light brown or yellowish, hard, and heavy (specific gravity 0.9). Used in Puerto Rico for posts. In Dominican Republic hogs and goats eat the fruits. Reported to be a honey plant. Forests and thickets of the dry limestone re- gion of southwestern Puerto Rico. Also in Caja de Muertos, St. Croix, and Tortola. Public forest. — Guanica. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, and Lesser Antilles at Barbuda and Long Island near Antigua. Other common names. — cacao rojo, azufaito, cascarilla, espejuelo (Puerto Rico) ; saona cimar- rona, saona de puerco, sopaipo (Dominican Repub- lic) ; coquemolle (Haiti). A related tree species (Sarcornphal/us domin- gensis (Spreng.) Krug & Urban) has the twigs, leaves, and flowers all hairless. It is recorded from the British Virgin Islands, Vieques, and the north- eastern end of Puerto Rico. Another species (Sarcomphalus taylorii Brit- ton ) , a shrub or small tree of Mona Island and Ba- hamas, has obovate leaves less than 1 inch long, bright green on both sides, and notched or rounded at apex. 322 148. Casearroya Natural size. Sarcomphalus rcticulatus (Vahl) Urban 323 149. Motillo ELAEOCARPUS FAMILY (ELAEOCARPACEAE) Sloanea berteriana Choisy A large tree of mountain forests, recognized by : (1) the mostly large elliptic leaves 6-18 inches long and 3-8 inches broad, short-pointed at both ends and the petioles with a swelling at each end; (2) the pale yellow widely spreading flowers %-% inch across, 4- or 5-parted, several in lateral clusters; (3) the elliptic brown seed capsules 14,4 inches long, hard and thick-walled, splitting usu- ally into 4 parts and commonly present on ground under trees; and (4) pronounced buttresses at the base of the trunk. This evergreen tree becomes 100 feet tall, with a straight trunk 2-3 feet in diameter. The smooth- ish dark gray bark has reddish-brown warts about V4 inch long and broad. Inner bark is light brown, with slightly bitter gritty taste. The brown twigs are finely hairy when young. The alternate leaves have stout petioles %-3^2 inches long, green turning brownish. Leaf blades vary greatly in size and are thin or slightly thick- ened, without marginal teeth, nearly hairless, dark green and with slightly sunken veins on upper sur- face, and green beneath. Flower clusters (racemes) are unbranched, 2 inches or less in length, with several flowers on slender, finely hairy stalks 1/£-% inch long. There are 4 or 5 pale yellow, pointed, finely hairy sepals 5/1G inch long; no petals; numerous hairy sta- V4T mens Vi inch or less in length, attached on a broad disk; and the hairy pistil V4 inch long, consisting of 4- or sometimes 3-celled ovary, style, and 4 or sometimes 3 stigmas. The 4-parted seed capsules, inconspicuously fine hairy, hard and with walls %6 inch thick, release a few rounded or elliptic seeds about V2 inch long. Flowering chiefly from spring to fall, with fruits nearly through the year. The sapwood is yellowish brown, and the heart- wood multicolored, varying from yellow brown to pinkish brown or dark brown, sometimes with darker brown stripes. The wood is very hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.80), strong, and medium- textured, and has growth rings and irregular grain. It is considered hard on tools, is classsed as durable, and is susceptible to attack by dry- wood termites. Its rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining characteristics are as follows : planing, turning, mortising, and sanding are good ; shaping and bor- ing are excellent; and resistance to screw splitting is poor. In Puerto Rico the wood has been used sparing- ly for furniture and also in local construction and for crossties. Lacking attractiveness and uniform color for furniture and cabinetwork, it is suitable for heavy construction, farm implement parts, handles, heavy-duty flooring, and boat parts. Forests of the lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. A dominant tree in the rain forest, usually growing in the moist ravines and becoming an emergent tree in the upper story of the forest. Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Toro Negro. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to Martinique. Other common names. — cacao motillo, cacaillo, cacao roseta, cacaotillo, roseta (Puerto Rico) ; ca- cao cimarron (Dominican Republic) ; petit coco, chataignier petit coco, cocoyer (Guadeloupe, Martinique). Another species (Sloanea amygdalina Griseb.) is rare in the mountain forest at Maricao Forest in the western Cordillera. This tree has smaller el- liptic leaves with blades 2V2-6 inches long, blunt or notched at apex, fewer flowers usually single or no more than 3 together, and smaller seed capsules %-l inch long, densely covered with short spines Vie inch long. It is native also in Hispaniola and Cuba but was not listed from Puerto Rico by Brit- ton and Wilson. 324 149. Motillo Two-thirds natural size. JSloanea berteriana Choisy 325 MALLOW FAMILY (MALVACEAE) Key to the 3 species illustrated (Nos. 150-152) A. Leaves with mostly 11 or 9 main veins from base ; petioles and lower leaf surfaces densely covered with whitish- gray star-shaped hairs ; flowers with yellow petals, turning orange and reddish with age — 150. Hibiscus tiliaceus.* A.A. Leaves with mostly 7 main veins from base, petioles and blades with scattered minute scales. B. Leaves abruptly long- or short -pointed at apex ; flowers with red petals — 151. Montezuma speciosissima. BB. Leaves long-pointed at apex ; flowers with pale yellow petals, turning to purple — 152. Thespesia populnea* 150. Emajagua, sea hibiscus Hibiscus tiliaceus L* This small tree or shrub is characterized by: (1) long-pet ioled, heart-shaped and nearly round leaves 4—7 inches long and broad, with mostly 11 or 9 main veins from base, shiny yellow green and hairless on upper surface; (2) the young twigs, petioles, lower leaf surfaces, calyx, and seed cap- sules densely covered with whitish-gray star- shaped hairs; (3) widely spreading or prostrate crooked branches; (4) the large funnel-shaped yellow flowers 3-31/2 inches long and broad, turn- ing orange and reddish with age; and (5) the ellip- tic, gray-green, hairy seed capsules 1-1 Vi inches long, which split into 5 parts. An evergreen tree attaining 10-20 feet in height, with a short crooked trunk to 6 inches in diameter and a broad crown. The bark is gray and smooth, the thin inner bark fibrous. The twigs have rings at nodes and become brown and hairless in age. Leaves are alternate and have petioles 2-5 inches in length. Leaf bl ades are abruptly short- or long- pointed at apex and heart-shaped at base, with edges not toothed, and slightly thickened. There are 2 large short-pointed whitish hairy scales (stipules) I-IV2 inches long at base of leaf, soon shedding and leaving a ring scar. A few flowers are borne in terminal branching clusters (panicles) or lateral near ends of twigs, each on a whitish hairy stalk %-2 inches long. At the base of a flower there is a gray-green hairy cup (involucre) % inch long with usually 9 or 10 narrow pointed lobes. The calyx, also gray-green hairy, is 1-1 Vi inches long, tubular with 5 narrow long-pointed lobes. Petals 5 (greenish tinged in dried specimens), 21/2-3V2 inches long, rounded but broader on 1 side, with star-shaped hairs on outside. Numerous stamens are on a column about 2 inches long united with petals at base. The pistil consists of a densely hairy conical 5-celled ovary with long slender style and 5 broad stigmas. The long-pointed seed capsules split and break open the calyx and involucre which remain at- tached. There are many brownish-black seeds Vs-3Aa inch long. Flowering and fruiting through the year. The sapwood is whitish, and heartwood is dark greenish brown. The wood is moderately soft, porous, and moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.6). Used chiefly for fuel, sometimes elsewhere for floats or as a cork substitute. An important use of the fibrous bark, which can be peeled off in long strips, is for cordage. Be- sides ropes, fish nets, mats, and coarse cloth for- merly were made from the bark, which even could be eaten in times of famine along with the roots and young leaves. Also, the fiber has served for tying tobacco. The trees sprout from stumps and when cut back produce long vigorous shoots from which quantities of ropes can be made. Different parts of the tree have served in home medicines. Also a honey plant. Grown as an ornamental for the showy flowers. The plants are easily propagated by cuttings and are started in fence rows as living fenceposts. In coastal swamps near mangroves, leaning trunks and branches form roots in the mud and aid build- ing the land. Roadsides, thickets, and swampy areas in the lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Vieques, St. Thomas, and St. John. (Re- corded long ago from St. Croix.) Public forests. — Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Rio Aba jo, Toro Negro. Range. — Seashores throughout the tropics, probably of Old World origin and naturalized in America. Southern Florida including Florida Keys, Bermuda, and through West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago. Also from Mexico to Peru and Brazil. Other common names. — majagua (Puerto Rico, Spanish) ; damajagua (Dominican Republic) ; majagua hembra (Cuba) ; majao (Honduras) ; algodoncillo, mahoe (Panama) ; sea hibiscus, lin- den hibiscus, tree hibiscus, mahoe (United States) ; mahoe (English) ; seaside majoe (Jamaica, Trini- dad and Tobago) ; mahot (St. Vincent) ; blue moho, wild cotton (British Honduras) ; maho, kayuwa (British Guiana) ; coton marron, mahaut franc (Haiti) ; bois flot, bois de liege, grand mahot, mahot gombo (Guadeloupe) ; bois flot (Marti- nique) ; pariti (French Guiana) ; maho (Surinam). Botanical synonym. — Paritium tiliaceum (L.) St.-Hil., Juss., & Camb. The Spanish common name majagua, of which the English name mahoe is a corruption, is an American Indian word applied in tropical Amer- ica to several unrelated trees with useful fibrous bark. Mahoe (Hibiscus elatus Sw.*) is a related large upland tree native in Cuba and Jamaica and intro- duced into Puerto Rico in experimental forest plantations. It has a tall straight trunk and 326 ^;iii.:;:'a;'' M^v- 150. Emajagua, sea hibiscus Two-thirds natural size. Hibiscus tiliaceus L. 687-921 0—64 22 327 larger flowers about 4 inches long and broad. The petals are dark red at base, changing in color from pink to yellow and red. This genus is represented also by 10 or more species of native and introduced shrubs and herbs, including the vegetable okra (Hibiscus esculenttcs L.). Amapola or Chinese hibiscus (H. rosa- sinensis L.*) is a popular ornamental shrub with purple, rose, or white petals, introduced from tropical Asia. 151. Maga MALLOW FAMILY (MALVACEAE) Montezuma speciosissima Sesse & Moc. Maga, a widely planted native tree is easily rec- ognized by its very large red spreading flowers 3-31/2 inches long and 3!/2-5 inches broad, with 5 rounded overlapping petals. Though generally in flower, identification may be made also by : (1) the long-petioled heart-shaped leaves with blades 41/0-9 inches long and 4-6% inches broad and usu- ally 7 main veins from base; and (2) the nearly round pointed green fruit 1^4-2 inches in diameter. A medium-sized evergreen tree becoming 30-50 feet tall and 6-18 inches in trunk diameter, for- merly larger. The gray or brown bark is rough and relatively thick (V2 inch), deeply furrowed on large trunks. Inner bark is light brown, fi- brous, and slightly bitter. The stout, warty twigs are green when young, turning brown; young twigs and other green parts have scattered mi- nute brown scales. The alternate leaves have yellow-green petioles 2-5 inches long. Leaf blades are abruptly long- or short-pointed at apex, heart-shaped at base, with edges not toothed, slightly thickened, green or yellow green above and paler beneath. Flowers are solitary at leaf bases on stout stalks 4-5V2 inches long, longer than petioles. Though several are formed on a twig, only 1 flower opens at a time. The cup-shaped green calyx is about % inch long and broad, slightly thickened, shed- ding as a ring after flowering, with 3 narrow green scales (bracts) % inch long at base falling from the bud. The 5 very large petals are 3-3!/2 inches long and 2-3 inches broad, rounded but broader on 1 side, with minute star-shaped hairs on out- side. Stamens many, 3/i& inch long, on a whitish column about 2% inches long united at base with petals and shedding with them. The pistil is com- posed of a slightly conical yellow-green ovary about % inch long and broad, 4- or 3-celled, slen- der white style 2*4 inches long, and 4 or 3 yellow united stigmas ^-^ inch long. The fruits are fleshy or leathery, not splitting open. There are a few brown seeds V2 mch long, averaging about 1,200 to the pound. They lose viability within a month. Flowering and fruiting throughout the year. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood is rich chocolate brown resembling old mahogany. The wood is rather hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.7), fine-textured, very durable, and very resist- ant to attack by dry-wood termites. A now scarce furniture wood used also occasionally for turnery, musical instruments, posts, and poles. This tree was formerly widely planted along roadsides and for timber in the public forests. As it proved to be an alternate host of the pink boll- worm (Pectinophora gossypiella, Saunders), its planting was discontinued in the cotton region. Subsequently, propagation of this species has near- ly terminated except for landscaping. Forest plantings stopped when it was found that trees which at first grew straight and rapidly later near- ly ceased growth, became excessively branchy, and produced numerous cankerlike defects on the trunk. Trees in plantations on good soils in the moist limestone region averaged 3.6 inches in di- ameter at an age of 9 years. Another objection to extensive planting even for the flowers is that the trees are very susceptible to a scale insect which deforms trunk and branches and sometimes causes death. In southern Florida and elsewhere the trees have been introduced for ornament and shade. This handsome tree is Puerto Rico's own and should be a candidate for adoption as the official tree. When originally described, it was confused with Mexican collections by the same Spanish botanists, and the range was erroneously given as Mexico. The scarcely appropriate name for this genus of a single species confined to Puerto Rico honors Montezuma, Aztec ruler in Mexico at the time of the Spanish conquest in 1513, but the spe- cific name means very beautiful. Native in the moist limestone forest region of Puerto Rico. Extensively planted on the humid coast, lower Cordillera, and lower Luquillo forest regions. Cultivated also in St. Thomas. Public forests. — Wild and planted in Camba- lache, Guajataca, and Rio Abajo. Planted in Carite, Luquillo, and Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 49, 53. Range. — Native only in Puerto Rico. Planted in St. Thomas, Dominican Republic, Cuba, Ja- maica, southern Florida, and British Honduras, and perhaps elsewhere. Other common names. — maga colorada (Puerto Rico) ; purple haiti-haiti (St. Thomas) ; tulipan del Japon (Dominican Republic). Botanical synonyms. — Thespesia grandiflora DC, Montezuma grandiflora (DC.) Urban, Maga grandiflora (DC.) Urban. 328 151. Maga Two-thirds natural size. Montezuma speciosissima Sess£ & Moc. 329 MALLOW FAMILY (MALVACEAE) 152. Emajagiiilla, otaheita, portiatree Thespesia populnea (L.) Soland.* This tree or shrub of coastal woods, also planted for ornament and shade, is characterized by: (1) large bell-shaped flowers 2 inches long and broad, with 5 overlapping petals, pale yellow but turning to purple, single at leaf bases; (2) dark gray, rounded but flattened, slightly 5-ridged, hard, dry fruits about I14 inches or more in diameter and % inch high; (3) long-pet ioled, long-pointed, deeply heart-shaped, dark green shiny leaves with blades 4-8 inches long and 2^-5 inches broad, with usually 7 main veins from base; and (4) tough fibrous bark. An evergreen tree to 30 feet in height and 8 inches in trunk diameter with dense crown, the long spreading lower branches of crowded plants forming dense thickets. The bark is gray and slightly fissured, becoming thick and rough. Inner bark is yellowish and fibrous. The stout twigs are green and covered with very small brown scales when young, becoming gray. Petioles, leaf blades, flower stalks, calyx, and fruits have scattered minute inconspicuous brown scales also. The alternate leaves have petioles 2^ inches long. Leaf blades are slightly thickened and leathery, lighter beneath, not toothed on edges. Flowers lateral on a twig, opening 1 at a time, on stout stalks shorter than petioles, i/£-2 inches long. The cup-shaped green calyx is about % inch high and l/2 inch across, remaining at base of fruit, with 3-5 narrow green scales (bracts) l/2 inch or more in length on outside, falling from the bud. The broad, rounded, oblique petals 2 inches or more in length are pale yellow, purplish at base and turning to purple, with minute star- shaped hairs on outside. Stamens many, on a column 1 inch long joined to petals at base. The pistil has a 5-celled ovary with slender style and 5 broader stigmas. The fruits, which remain attached for some time but do not split open, contain several brown hairy seeds about % inch long and % inch broad. Flow- ering and fruiting from spring to fall. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood chocolate brown. The wood is moderately soft, mediumweight, durable, and takes a fine polish. It is classed as resistant to attack from dry-wood termites. Used in boatbuilding and for fuel and elsewhere in cabinetwork. Rope has been made from the tough fibrous bark. It is reported that the flowers are eaten as food and that the fruit is employed medicinally for the treatment of skin eruptions. Planted as a street tree and ornamental and liv- ing fencepost. However, this tree is a host of the cotton stainer, a red insect which stains the fibers of growing cotton, and is eradicated in West Indian islands where cotton is an important crop. For this reason, the elimination of this tree from cotton areas of Puerto Rico has been advocated, and further propagation has been discouraged. Coastal woods and thickets along seashores and borders of mangrove in Puerto Rico. Also in Mona, Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. Range. — Widely distributed on tropical shores, believed to be native in the Old World tropics and planted and naturalized elsewhere. Southern Florida including Florida Keys (planted also in California), Bermuda, and throughout West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago. Also occasionally cultivated in continen- tal tropical America from southern Mexico ( Yuca- tan) and British Honduras to Brazil and Chile. Other common names. — majaguilla, frescura, jaqueca, palo de jaqueca, clamor, santa maria (Puerto Rico) ; haiti-haiti (Virgin Islands) ; alamo, alamo bianco (Dominican Republic) ; majagua de Florida (Cuba) ; frescura (Nicara- gua) ; demon, algodon de monte (Colombia); cremon (Venezuela) ; macoi (Chile) ; portiatree, seaside mahoe (United State) ; seaside mahoe (English); cork-tree, Spanish-cork (Bahamas); John-Bull-tree (Jamaica, Bequia) ; mahot bord- de-mer (St, Lucia) ; tulip tree, mahault de Londres (Trinidad) ; Spanish-cork, cork-tree (British Honduras) ; beach maho, maho (British Guiana) ; gros mahaut (Haiti); catalpa (Guadeloupe); otaheita, palu santu (Dutch West Indies) ; bosch- katoen ( Surinam ) . 330 152. Emajagiiilla, otaheita, portiatree Natural size. Thespesia populnea (L. ) Soland. 331 BOMBAX FAMILY (BOMBACACEAE) Key to the 3 native species, all illustrated (Nos. 153-155) A. Leaves digitate (palmate), with 5-8 lance-shaped or oblong leaflets — 153. Ceiba pentandra. AA. Leaves simple. B. Leaves with 5-9 main veins from base — 154. Ochroma pyramidale. BB. Leaves with 1 main vein or midrib — 155. Quararibaea turbinata. 153. Ceiba, silk-cotton-tree Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn. This giant, tree, one of the largest in tropical America, is easily recognized by the massive gray- green or gray smooth ish trunk (spiny when small) which reaches an enormous size of 5-8 feet or more in diameter above the unusually large narrow but- tresses and by the very broad flat crown of hori- zontal branches. Other distinguishing character- istics are: (1) the palmately compound leaves (digitate) of 5-8 lance-shaped or oblong leaflets 3-8 inches long, drooping from the end of a long petiole; (2) numerous spreading 5-parted whitish to pink flowers 114— IV2 inches long and broad ; and (3) oblong or elliptic seed capsules 3-6 inches or more in length and 2 inches in diameter, contain- ing many seeds and woolly hairs, the kapok of commerce. Ceiba is a rapidly growing deciduous tree be- coming 80 feet or more in height. The buttresses, 6-12 inches thick, extend horizontally out from the trunk over the large roots as much as 10 feet and almost as high. Many stout conical spines V8-1 inch long are present on branches and small trunks but are mostly absent on large trunks. The thick inner bark is light brown and almost taste- less. The thin crown is commonly broader than the height of the tree. Twigs are stout, green at tip, and becoming gray. Leaves are alternate, with slender green petioles 3-9 inches long. The leaflets hang down on short stalks 1/8_% iric-h long and are 3-8 inches long and 34-l3/4 inches broad, short-pointed at base and apex, not toothed on edges, thin, above bright green to dark green, and beneath dull green. Great quantities of flowers are produced in la- teral clusters near the ends of twigs in winter or early spring (December to February) though not every year, often while the tree is leafless. Flower stalks are I-IV2 inches long. The calyx is cup- shaped, about i/2 inch long and broad, with 5-10 shallow teeth. The 5 petals are about 1V4 inches long, whitish to rose colored, and densely brown silky hairy on the outer surface. Five stamens, longer than the petals, are united into a column near the base.. The pistil consists of 5-celled ovary, a long style curved near apex, and enlarged stigma. Seed capsules mature in spring and summer, splitting open along 5 lines. Many rounded black seeds less than 14 inch long (about 3,200 to a pound) are imbedded in a dense mass of gray woolly hairs. The wood is very light brown but nearly al- ways turned to blue gray by sap-staining fungi, the sapwood almost the same color and not readily distinguished. It is very soft, exceedingly light- weight (specific gravity 0.23), weak, coarse-tex- tured, and straight-grained. The rate of air-sea- soning and amount of degrade are moderate. The wood machines easily but not satisfactorily. Ma- chining characteristics are as follows: planing, sanding, and resistance to screw splitting are ex- cellent; shaping and boring are poor; turning is very poor; and mortising is fair. Logs and lum- ber are very susceptible to attack by insects and de- cay. However, blue-stain can be prevented by dip- ping the lumber in a fungicide solution soon after sawing. The wood is seldom used in Puerto Rico al- though sometimes has served for interior sheath- ing. It resembles heavier grades of balsa (guano) but is twice as strong and could be used similarly. It is suitable for boxes, slack cooper- age, toys, light construction, patternmaking, and utility-grade plywood. Because it. is easily worked and in spite of lack of durability, the wood has been employed for tubs and basins. Indians made drums of the wood and hollowed out the trunks for dugout canoes of large size. Trees are occasionally planted for shade and ornament, and young cut branches or cuttings will root, when planted. In many tropical towns a giant spreading ceiba occupies the center of the plaza. Classed as a valuable honey plant. It is reported that the leaves are edible when cooked. Kapok, the woolly or silky hair from the seed pods, is an important product of this species. The harvest is mainly from planted trees in Java and the Philippines. A growing tree produces about 600-900 seed capsules or 6-9 pounds of clean floss annually. This fiber is fine, lightweight, and elas- tic and does not become matted under pressure. Because of these characteristics and its insulating qualities, kapok is preferred for linings of sleep- ing bags and was a strategic material in the last war. Another use is for life preservers. In many places kapok has been used locally in stuffing pil- lows and mattresses, and commercial development lias been suggested where the trees are sufficiently common. The fiber is brittle and inflammable and not suitable for spinning into threads. An oil suitable for making soap and illumination has been extracted from the seeds. Ceiba is scattered and widely distributed in Puerto Rico along river banks and open hillsides on the coastal plain and in the lower mountain 332 153. Ceiba, silk-cotton-tree Two-thirds natural size. Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn. 333 regions and is commonest in the drier, southern areas. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Lu- quillo, Rio Abajo, San Juan, Susua, Toro Negro, Vega. Range. — Nearly throughout West Indies from Cuba and Jamaica to Trinidad and Tobago. In- troduced in Bermuda and Bahamas and planted also in southern Florida and California. Widely distributed from Mexico to Ecuador, Brazil, and Guianas. Also in tropical Africa and Asia. Other common names. — kapok (Virgin Islands) ; ceiba, ceibo (Spanish, commerce) ; pochote (Mexico, Central America) ; bongo, cot- ton-tree (Panama); ceiba de lana, bonga, ceiba de Garzon (Colombia) ; silk-cotton-tree, kapok (English) ; cotton-tree (British Honduras) : kumaka (British Guiana) ; mapou (Haiti, Guade- loupe) ; frontager (commerce, Guadeloupe, Mar- tinique, French Guiana) ; bois coton, kapokier ( French Guiana,) ; katoenboom, katunbom, kapok- boom, silk-cotton-tree (Dutch West Indies) ; kan- kantrie, kaddo bakkoe (Surinam) ; sumauma, mai das arvores, cyyba, mocmayn (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Bomb ax pentandrum L., Ceiba anfractuosa (DC.) Maza. Some authors have separated the New World trees from those of the Old World as a variety or species {Ceiba. pentandra (L.) Gaertn. var. cari- baea (DC.) Bakh., C. caribaea (DC.) A. Chev.,/7. occidental is (Spreng.) Burkill). The Spanish and generic names are from an old Caribbean word which is said to mean boat. BOMBAX FAMILY (BOMBACACEAE) 154. Guano, balsa Balsa, a very rapidly growing tree known in Puerto Rico as guano, is easily recognized by : (1) an open crown of a few coarse spreading branches ; (2) smooth pinkish-gray bark; (3) large, nearly round, heart-shaped leaves 8-16 inches long and broad with 7-9 main veins spreading from base (palmately veined) and with long petioles; (4) the large, tubular bell-shaped, whitish and green- ish flowers 5 inches long, with 5 petals, borne singly; and (5) the odd dark brown cylindrical seed capsules 7-10 inches long and l-D/2 inches in diameter, covered with light brown wool after opening. A medium-sized to large evergreen tree, becom- ing 50-80 feet in height and 2y2 feet in trunk diameter, with slight buttresses when large. Inner bark is fibrous, pinkish, % inch or less in thick- ness. The twigs are stout, 1/2 mcn m diameter, greenish, rusty-brown hairy when young, with large brownish leaf scars and thick pith. The alternate leaves have stout reddish-tinged petioles about as long as the blades and 2 broad rounded scales (stipules) Vo inch long at base. Leaf blades are short-pointed or slightly 3-pointed (sometimes 5-pointed), edges mostly without teeth, slightly thickened, green and hairless on upper surface and yellow green with minute star- shaped hairs on lower surface, Young plants have very large leaves with blades as much as 2 feet long: and broad. The flowers are formed on long stout stalks near ends of twigs. They are 3-4 inches broad, slightly fleshy, bearing minute star-shaped hairs. The thickened brownish-green calyx has a tube about 2 inches long and 5 large spreading lobes IV2 inches long, the 2 outer lobes narrow and pointed, 2 lobes very broad and notched, and 1 broad on 1 side. There are 5 whitish petals 5 inches long, broad and rounded at apex and narrow below. The stamen column about 5 inches long has an enlarged terminal pollen-bearing portion of many spirally twisted antbers and surrounds the pistil 334 Ochroma pyramidale (Cav.) Urban with its 5-celled, conical ovary, long style 4!/2 inches in length, and 5 spirally twisted stigmas. The seed capsules are 10-angled and grooved and split into 5 parts to expose a mass of tawny-brown, long, soft bairs, in which many small dark brown seeds % mcn l°ng are loosely imbedded. Flowers appearing from winter to summer, and fruits and seeds mature in spring and summer. Balsa is the lightest of commercial woods, weigh- ing less than cork. However, the Puerto Rican guano (specific gravity 0.22) is heavier than balsa of major commercial sources. The sapwood, the main source, is whitish, often with yellowish or pinkish hue, and the heartwood is pale brown or reddish tinged. The wood is very soft, weak, and has very coarse, straight, uniform grain. It is absorbent unless treated (frequently with paraf- fin), warps badly, and requires very sharp tools to work. Also it is perishable, decays and becomes discolored readily, and is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. The rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining characteristics are as follows: planing is good; shaping is poor; turning, boring, and mortising are very poor; sanding is fair; and resistance to screw splitting is excellent. Balsa wood was a strategic material in the Sec- ond World War, being employed chiefly for life- rafts, lifebelts, and similar equipment, and in air- plane construction. The best grades were used in making British mosquito bombers. Nearly all the wartime supply came from Ecuador. In the First World War, 80,000 balsa floats were made for a submarine mine barrage 250 miles long in the North Sea. Peacetime uses elsewhere include insulation, toys, floats for fishnets, and lightweight boxes. Because of the insulating qualities, boxes of balsa have been used for shipping cold perishables with- out ice, The wood can serve as a substitute for cork. The Puerto Rican guano can be used in many ways like the heavier grades of balsa, It is 154. Guano, balsa Two-thirds natural size. Ochroma pyramidale (Cav.) Urban 335 suitable for certain types of fruit and vegetable containers, novelties, toys, and temporary forms. The Spanish common name balsa, meaning raft and perhaps of aboriginal origin, is associated with the use of the buoyant logs by the Indians for rafts. The woolly or silky hairs of the seed capsules are employed for stuffing pillows and mattresses, be- ing similar to the kapok fibers of commerce ob- tained from the related tree, ceiba. It is reported that these fibers have been used also in felt hats. Ropes have been made from the fibrous bark, which also contains tannin. The trees are sometimes grown as ornamentals for the large leaves and large flowers, such as in southern Florida. Scattered in the moist coast, moist limestone, and lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Requir- ing full sunlight, it is confined to open areas, such as roadsides, clearings, and cutover forests, where the wind-borne seeds are widely distributed. Ger- mination is rapid, especially following fire. Trees attain mature size within 6-10 years, sometimes averaging 10 feet in height growth a year. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Luquillo, Rio Abajo, Susua. Range. — Widely distributed in tropical America with minor variations distinguished as species by BOMBAX FAMILY 155. Garrocho This small tree is limited to deep shade of moist forests and characterized by : ( 1 ) straight erect trunk and axis with horizontal branches attached in circles of 5 or 4 together at the same point; (2) elliptic leaves 3-9 inches long and 1V2~4 inches broad, short-pet ioled, slightly thickened, strongly odorous when dry; (3) lateral whitish funnel- shaped flowers % inch long, mostly single and al- most stalkless at base of leaves; and (4) rounded, orange, fleshy fruits % inch in diameter. An evergreen tree becoming 20 feet in height and 6 inches in trunk diameter. The branches, at- tached in whorls about 1V2_2 feet apart along the axis, are distinctive of this genus. The gray- brown bark is smoothish but finely warty. Inner bark is yellowish and slightly bitter. Twigs are brown, with faint rings where leaves are borne. The alternate leaves have petioles Vi_% mcn long. Blades are short-pointed at both ends, with- out teeth on edges, dark green and slightly shiny with sunken lateral veins on upper surface and dull yellow green beneath. At base of young leaves is a pair of narrow pointed gray scales (stipules) %6 inch long, which shed early, leaving a ring scar. The flowers are attached on very short stalks along the twigs, bear minute star-shaped hairs, and have a peculiar odor. The narrow green calyx tube is %-V2 mcn long, slightly and irregularly 2- or 3-lobed; there are 5 spreading whitish petals some authors. Greater Antilles and Lesser An- tilles from St. Kitts to Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago. Also from southern Mexico to Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. Planted also in south- ern Florida and Dutch West Indies. Other common names. — false cork-tree (Virgin Islands) ; balsa, palo de balsa, balso (Spanish) ; palo de lana, lana, lanero (Dominican Republic) ; lanero, ceibon botija (Cuba) ; coreho (Mexico) ; lana, cajeto, lanilla, guano, coreho, jujul (Guate- mala) ; guano, tambor (Honduras) ; algodon (El Salvador) ; gatillo (Nicaragua) ; lana, cottontree (Panama) ; tucumo, ceiba de lana, lana (Colom- bia); huampo, topa (Peru); balsa, balsa-wood (United States, English, commerce) ; corkwood, downtree, bombast mahoe (Jamaica) ; bois flot (St, Lucia, Dominica, Trinidad and Tobago) ; polak (British Honduras) ; coton fleurs, mahau- deme (Haiti) ; bois flot (Guadeloupe, Marti- nique) ; fromager mapou, bois liege, bois pripri, patte lapin, bois lievre (Guadeloupe) ; balsa (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Ochroma bicolor Row- lee, 0. boliviano, Rowlee, 0. grandiftora Rowlee, 0. lagopus Sw., O. lagopm var. bicolor (Rowlee) Standi. & Steyerm., 0. lirrwriensis Rowlee, 0. obtma Rowlee, 0. peruviana Johnst., 0. tomentosa Willd., O. velutina Rowlee. (BOMBACACEAE) Quararibaea turbinata (Sw.) Poir. more than V2 mcn l°ng? stamen column % inch long, with many anthers clustered at apex; and pistil with 2- or 3-celled ovary, slender style, and enlarged stigma inside the stamen column. The rounded, orange fleshy fruits are slightly broader than long, with calyx remaining at base, and have 1 or 2 large seeds. Flowers are produced chiefly in spring (February to May), and fruits mature slightly later (February to July). The sapwood is whitish and hard. The wood is little used in Puerto Rico. Formerly the stems were used for goad sticks, as the Spanish common name indicates. Because of the peculiar branch- ing, small stems could serve as hatracks. An understory tree of the moist coast, moist limestone, and lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Also Vieques, St. John, and St. Croix. Re- discovered in St. Croix in 1954, more than 150 years after an earlier collection there. Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, Lu- quillo, Rio Abajo. Municipality where especially common. — 46. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, Vieques, St. John, and St. Croix, and Lesser Antilles from St. Eustatius, St. Kitts, and Antigua to Grenada. Also recorded from Surinam. Other common names. — palo de garrocha, asu- billo (Puerto Rico) ; molinillo (Dominican Re- public) ; swizzle-stick-tree (Lesser Antilles) ; millerwood (St. Eustatius). 336 155. Garrocho Two-thirds natural size. Quararibaea turbinata (Svv.) Poir. 337 CHOCOLATE FAMILY (STERCULLACEAE) Key to the 3 species illustrated (Nos. 156-158) A. Leaves deeply 5-lobed, with 5 main veins from heart-shaped base ; petiole nearly as long as blade — 157. Sterculia apetala.* AA. Leaves not lobed. B. Leaves with 3 or sometimes 5 main veins from the oblique base, with edges finely saw-toothed — 156. Guazuma ulmifolia. BB. Leaves with 1 main vein or midrib, not toothed on edges — 158. Theobroma cacao* 156. Guacima, jacocalalu This tree is recognized by: (1) long widely spreading branches, horizontal or slightly droop- ing, with the alternate leaves in 2 rows in a flat- tened arrangement; (2) bark becoming furrowed and rough or slightly shaggy; (3) young twigs covered with minute rusty-brown or light gray star-shaped hairs; (4) the ovate to lance-shaped leaves 2^-5 inches long and 1-2V& inches wide, long-pointed, finely saw-toothed, and with 3 or sometimes 5 main veins from the rounded oblique base; (5) small brown-tinged yellow 5-parted flowers in clusters at base of leaves; and (6) fruit round to elliptic, hard, very warty, black, %-l inch long. A small to medium-sized tree to 50 feet high and 2 feet in trunk diameter, with spreading rounded crown. The bark is gray or gray brown, 14 inch or more in thickness. Inner bark is light brown, fibrous, and slightly bitter. Evergreen except in areas with long dry seasons. The long slender twigs become dark brown. The slender petioles Vi-1/£ mch long are covered with minute rusty-brown or light gray star-shaped hairs. Leaf blades are thin, nearly hairless or sometimes densely hairy, green on upper surface and paler beneath. At night the leaves hang vertically. Branched flower clusters (panicles) are 1-2 inches long at base of leaves and bear many small, slightly fragrant flowers on minutely hairy stalks. The spreading flowers are about % inch long and half as broad, consisting of a 2- or 3-lobed rusty- brown or light gray hairy calyx less than Vs mcn long, turned back and then greenish, 5 yellow petals each with a slender 2-forked appendage, and yellowish stamen column with about 15 anthers surrounding the pistil, composed of hairy light green 5-celled ovary, style, and 5 united stigmas. The warty seed capsules, which mature in fall and winter, are 5-celled, open at the apex or irreg- ularly by pores, and contain many seeds Vs inch long. Flowering from spring to fall (March to October) and with fruits throughout the year. This is a variable species with differences in shape and amount of hairiness in the leaves and in shape and method of opening of seed capsules. Some botanists distinguish 2 species, both widely distributed with almost the same range and both occurring in Puerto Rico. Trees in moist areas have nearly hairless foliage with rusty-brown Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. hairs, while those in dry areas have densely light gray hairy foliage and have been separated as a different species (G. tomentosa H. B. K.). Sapwood is light brown and heartwood is pink- ish to brownish. The wood is moderately soft, lightweight to moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.5), easily worked, and not durable. It is very susceptible to attack by dry- wood termites. ^ In Puerto Rico the wood is used chiefly for posts. Various uses of the wood elsewhere include gen- eral carpentry, interior construction, furniture, barrel staves, boxes and crates, tool handles, gun- stocks, shoe lasts, violins, and charcoal for gun- powder. The trees sometimes serve as shade in pastures. Immature fruits and foliage are browsed by horses and cattle, especially in dry periods, and the fruits are fed to hogs. These mucilaginous green fruits, fresh or cooked, are edible, and it is re- ported that a beverage can be prepared by soak- ing the crushed fruits in water. In some areas rope and twine are made from the tough fibrous bark and young stems. The flowers attract bees and are a source of honey. Different parts of the plant are employed in home medicines. This species is characteristic of openings, stream banks, clearings, and second growth of disturbed areas and is less common in forests. It requires light, grows rapidly, and is hardy in dry as well as moist areas. Thus, it has been classed as a weed tree. It is reported to be one of the com- monest and most widely distributed tree species in Cuba and one of the commonest plants of Central America. Along stream courses and in thickets, pastures, and forests in the coastal and lower mountain re- gions of Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Public forests. — Aguirre, Cambalache, Guaja- taca, Guanica, Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua. Municipalities where especially common. — 8, 21, 66. Range. — Throughout West Indies (except Ba- hamas) from Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago and cultivated in Dutch West Indies. Also from Mexico to Ecuador, Peru, northern Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. Other common names. — guacima, guacimo (Spanish) ; guacima cimarrona (Dominican Re- public) ; guacima.de caballo (Cuba); tablote, 338 156. Guaeima, jacocalalu Two-thirds natural size. Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. 339 majagua de toro (Mexico) ; tapaculo (Guatemala, El Salvador) ; caulote (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Colombia) ; contamal (Guatemala) ; chi- charron (El Salvador) ; guacimillo (Nicaragua) ; guacimo bianco (Costa Rica) ; guacimo de ternero (Panama) ; iumanasi, papayillo (Peru) ; coco (Bolivia) ; camba-aca, guazuma (Argentina) ; bastard-cedar (Jamaica, Trinidad) ; bois d'orme, West-Indian-elm (Trinidad) ; pigeon-wood (To- bago) ; bay-cedar, caulote, pixoy (British Hon- duras) ; bois d'orme, orme d'Amerique (French bois de hetre, hetre gris, hetre vert, mahot-het (Guadeloupe) ;goeaazoema (Dutch West Indies mutamba (Brazil). Botanical synonyms. — Guazuma guazur, (L.) Cockerell, G. tomentosa H. B. K., G. uln, folia var. tomentosa (H. B. K.) K. Schum. The common name jacocalalu, applied to th species in St. Thomas, is said to be an Africa word for an edible plant like spinach. CHOCOLATE FAMILY (STERCULIACEAE) 157. Anacaguita, panama-tree Sterculia apetala (Jacq.) Karst. This large and handsome, introduced shade tree is distinguished by: (1) a dense broad spreading crown; (2) the abundant foliage of long-petioled, broad, deeply 5-lobed, pleated leaves with thick and leathery blades 8-12 inches long and wide; (3) large clusters of many bell-shaped yellowish flowers tinged with red or purple, 5-lobed and about % inch long and % inch across; and (4) the large, dark brown, hard, dry fruits, each of 5 or fewer spreading pods 2%-3^ inches long, opening widely to release the large black seeds and covered within with stiff needlelike bristles, which pene- trate and irritate the skin. An evergreen tree to 50 feet high. The trunks are commonly 3 feet or more in diameter, develop- ing narrow prominent buttresses taller than broad. The bark is smooth and gray or brown. Inner bark is orange brown, gritty, and tasteless. Young twigs, flowers, and young leaves are thickly cov- ered with brown, much-branched or star-shaped hairs. Older twigs are stout and light gray, with large, nearly round leaf scars. The alternate leaves have round yellow-green petioles 5-8 inches or more in length. Blades have 5 main veins from the heart-shaped base (palm- ately lobed) , the lobes ovate and short-pointed, not toothed on edges. The green and slightly shiny upper surface becomes almost hairless, while the gray to brownish-green lower surface is densely woolly with minute star-shaped hairs. Branched flower clusters (panicles) about 8 inches long are borne near the ends of twigs. The numerous flowers are partly male or female and partly bisexual (polygamous), with a 5-lobed calyx but have no petals. Stamens and pistil are borne at the end of a stalk Vi-% inch long, with 7-15 anthers on a very short tube, and the woolly pistil, when present, consisting of a 5-celled ovary % inch in diameter and a style of the same length but curved downward. There are 2-5 elliptic seeds % inch long in each pod (follicle) , maturin usually in spring. Flowering in spring and cm casionally in summer and fall. The sapwood is whitish, and the heartwood ligl brown to reddish brown. The wood is light weigr i (specific gravity 0.30-.45), soft, spongy, fibrou coarse-textured, and has growth rings. It wort easily but discolors rapidly and is susceptible t decay. Possible uses are interior construction an packing boxes. Large trunks have been hollowe into dugout canoes elsewhere. The principal value of this species is for shad and ornament, since the wood is seldom used. ] is reported that the edible seeds when ground ca be made into a beverage and when roasted tast like peanuts. Pigs eat the seeds also. Flowers leaves, and bark have been employed in horn medicines. Also a honey plant. Individual trees have been planted for shad and ornament in various parts of Puerto Rico am in St. Thomas and perhaps others of the Virgil Islands, but the species is not native. This specie is honored as the national tree of the Republic o Panama and as the origin of that country's name Range. — Southern Mexico and Central America to Peru and Brazil. Naturalized in Jamaica anc Trinidad. Planted in southern Florida, Cuba Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands, anc I elsewhere in the tropics. Other common names. — anacahuita (Domini can Republic) ; chicha (commerce) ; anacaguita camaruca (Cuba) ; bellota (Mexico, Guatemala) castafio (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador) panama, (Central America) ; camajuru, camajon- duro (Colombia) ; camoruco, pata de danta, sun- sun, cacaito, cacaguillo (Venezuela) ; panama-tree (English) ; pistache deslndes (Haiti). Botanical, synonym. — Sterculia carthaginensu Cav. 340 157. Anaeaguita, panama-tree Two-thirds natural size. Sterculia apetala (Jacq.) Karst. 341 CHOCOLATE FAMILY (STERCULIACEAE) 158. Cacao, chocolate-tree Cacao, the source of cocoa and chocolate, is a small cultivated tree characterized by: (1) low spreading crown; (2) large elliptic or oblong leaves hanging downward, 8-14 inches long and 2i/>— IV2 inches broad, long-pointed, broadest above middle, and rounded at base; (3) many flowers in clusters along trunk, branches, and larger twigs, 1 to several on slender pink stalks %-l inch long, oddly star-shaped, 5-parted, and spreading, % inch across, whitish, tinged with orange and pink ; and (4) the large oblong or egg-shaped, yellow or purplish, fleshy fruits 6-12 inches long and 3-4 inches thick, pointed, ridged and grooved, and hanging downward from trunk. This evergreen tree, cultivated under larger shade trees, becomes 25 feet high and 6 inches in trunk diameter. The dark brown bark is fis- sured and rough, and inner bark is light brown and tasteless. The twigs are brown and minutely hairy when young. The alternate leaves hang down from petioles V2-l inch long. Blades are slightly thickened, not toothed on edges, green or dark green on upper surface and paler beneath. Flowers have 5 narrow, pointed, widely spread- ing pink sepals 14 inch long ; 5 petals ^4 inch long, hood-shaped at base, with a very narrow middle part bent backward, and spoon-shaped at apex; 5 short stamens united into a cup at base and with 5 very narrow lobes 14 inch high ; and pistil com- posed of 5-celled ovary, style, and stigma. In the large 5-celled fruits are many large chocolate-colored or purplish seeds 1 inch or more in length and bitter tasting. There are about 200 Theobroma cacao h* seeds to a pound. Flowering in summer and fall. Fruits mature chiefly in spring and summer. The light brown, hard wood is not used in Puer- to Rico. Cacao is planted widely in wet tropical regions for its seeds or "beans," from which cocoa and chocolate are prepared by grinding and roasting. It is one of the best known cultivated plants origi- nating in the New World. The Spanish Conquis- tadores found it already being cultivated by the Mexican Indians. Besides the main use in Mexico for preparing drinks, the seeds served the natives as money. Sweetened chocolate now is an im- portant ingredient of candies and desserts as well as a popular beverage. Cacao (cocoa) powder and syrup from the seeds are official in the United States Pharmacopoeia, serving as a flavoring agent and concentrated nutriment. In active and abandoned coffee plantations, chiefly in the western part of the lower mountain regions of Puerto Rico. Cacao is planted to a limited extent also in St. Croix. Range. — Native of southern Mexico and Cen- tral America and spread by cultivation south to Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. Introduced and planted throughout the West Indies, mostly on a small scale. Propagation worldwide in moist tropical regions. Other common names. — cacao (Spanish) ; cacao, cocoa, chocolate-tree (English) ; cacao, cacaoyer (French); cacao, cacateiro (Brazil). Several cultivated varieties have been given de- scriptive common names. 342 158. Cacao, chocolate-tree Two-thirds natural size. Theobroma cacao L. 687-921 0—64 23 343 DILLENIA FAMILY (DILLENIACEAE) 159. Dilenia, India dillenia Dillenia indica L* A showy exotic introduced in gardens as an ornamental shade tree, distinguished by: (1) the symmetrical, usually conical dense crown; (2) large oblong or oblanceolate shiny green leaves with saw-toothed edges and with many straight parallel lateral veins 1/4~% inch apart leaving mid- rib at, an angle of about 45 degrees and each ending in a tooth; (3) beautiful very large white flowers, with yellow stamens, 8-9 inches across the 5 petals ; and (4) large, hard, light green fruits 5-8 inches in diameter, resembling a cabbage head, covered by very thick sepals. An evergreen tree attaining 50 feet in height with straight trunk to 1 foot in diameter, with large spreading branches arising a few together along the trunk. The brown bark is smoothish, with faint horizontal ring scars, and becoming slightly scaly. Inner bark is pinkish brown and bitter. The stout brownish-gray twigs have many broad leaf scars and at apex bear crowded alter- nate leaves and have pointed buds V2 mch ^onSi covered with pointed gray silky hairy scales. The leaves have stout, light green, grooved petioles iy^-1% inches long. Blades are 6-15 inches long and 21,4-6 inches wide, abruptly long- pointed at apex and narrowed toward the short- pointed base, often broadest above middle, above shiny green with midrib and lateral veins slightly sunken, and beneath lighter green with prominent lateral veins which are inconspicuously hairy. Flowers are borne singly near end of twig on a long stout stalk. There are 5 spreading light green sepals, concave and fleshy ; 5 spreading obovate white petals about 4 inches long; very numerous curved bright yellow stamens in a globelike mass ; and a central ring of about 16-18 crowded but nearly separate pistils (carpels), each 1-celled and bearing a white slender spreading stigma % inch long, narrow, flat, and pointed, the stigmas spread- ing as rays in a circle. The heavy fruits hang down singly, only 1 at the end of a leafy twig. They are rounded but broader than long and slightly irregular, being shaped by the 5 rounded hard sepals which are more than 1 inch thick at base with whitish flesh, the outer 2 short and the inner 3 tightly overlap- ping. The sepals do not open but enclose tightly the aggregate fruit of crowded light brown ovaries about 3 inches across, each with thick soft sour walls and containing several light brown flattened seeds Vi inch long in transparent gelatinous flesh. Observed in flower in July and August and with fruits nearly through the year. The light brown sapwood is slightly soft. The wood is not used in Puerto Rico. In India the fruit is eaten, the entire fruit being made into jelly or a drink or sometimes cooked as a vegetable. The bulk consists of the very thick sepals, which have a very sour taste. The smaller juicy fruits inside are sour also. Planted in Puerto Rico as an ornamental and shade tree and experimentally in St. Thomas. Elsewhere in the tropics examples may be seen in botanical gardens. Range. — Native of tropical Asia from India to Malaya. Introduced into other tropical regions, sparingly in the New World, including southern Florida and southern California, Greater Antilles, and Central and South America. Other common names. — coca (Dominican Re- public) ; India dillenia, dillenia (United States). 344 "' ',i>; v:^ J".C.A. 159. Dilenia, India dillenia Two-thirds natural size. Dillenia indica L. 345 160. Maricao verde TEA FAMILY (THEACEAE) Laplacea portoricensis (Krug & Urban) Dyer This tree native only in Luquillo Mountains is distinguished by: (1) alternate elliptic leaves 2-41/k inches long and %_i3/4 inches wide, rounded at apex and long-pointed at the very short-stalked base, with slightly wavy-toothed edges, the lower surface with 2 faint lines parallel with midrib, and orange red when new; (2) fragrant showy white flowers nearly 2 inches across the 6-9 petals, al- most stalkless and single at base of leaves; and (3) oblong dark brown capsule %-l inch long and %-i/2 inch in diameter, 6-10-ridged, remaining at- tached after opening. A medium-sized evergreen tree to 40 feet in height and 1V2 feet in trunk diameter. Bark on old trunks is gray and fissured. The twigs are gray, finely hairy when young. The terminal bud is long and narrow and covered by a hairy scale (stipule). The dark green leaf blades are often broadest above middle, turned under a little at edges, only slightly thickened, and beneath with prominent veins and paler and sparsely hairy. The large flowers are very conspicuous and at- tractive, contrasting with the foliage. A flower has 0 overlapping, unequal, rounded, leathery, finely hairy sepals %-Vjj inch in diameter; 6-S bright white unequal obovate petals about % incl long, some notched, soon falling; more than IOC unequal stamens 14 inch long with yellow anthers; and pistil more than %6 inch long with broad, rounded, hairy, 6-10-celled ovary and 5 or 6 styles, The finely hairy capsule splits open along the ridges to release many thin, narrow, winged, brown seeds nearly y2 mcn l°ng- These old open capsules serve as an aid in identification. Re- corded as flowering and with fruits in several months nearly through the year. This tree perhaps is worthy of trial as an orna- mental for its showy flowers. The wood is little used. Found only in the lower Luquillo forest region. Public forest. — Luquillo. Range. — Restricted to eastern Puerto Rico. Other common names. — maricao, nino de cota (Puerto Rico). Botanical synonyms. — Haemocharis portori- censis Krug & Urban, W ' ickstroemia portoricensis (Krug& Urban) Blake. 346 L60. Maricao verde Natural size. Laplacea portoricensis ( Krug & Urban ) Dyer 347 MANGOSTEEN FAMILY (GUTTIFERAE) Key to the 5 species illustrated (Nos. 161-165) A. Leaves stiff, ending in long-pointed sharp spine — 165. Rheedia portoricensis. AA. Leaves rounded or notched at apex. B. Leaves thick, with many straight parallel lateral veins nearly at right angles to midrib. C. Lateral veins only about %2 inch apart; fruit nearly 1 inch in diameter, inedible — 161. Calophyllum brasiliense. CC. Lateral veins more than %6 inch apart; fruit 3-10 inches in diameter, edible (mamey) — 164. Mammea americana. BB. Leaves very thick and fleshy, with lateral veins inconspicuous or scarcely visible. D. Leaves with rounded apex, the edges rolled under, seed capsules %-% inch in diameter — 162. Clusia krugiana. DD. Leaves with rounded or notched apex, the edges slightly turned under; seed capsules 2-2% inches in diameter — 163. Clusia rosea. 161. Maria, santa-maria Maria, a native and widely planted tree for tim- ber, ornament, and shade, is identified by its dense crown with opposite stiff elliptic leaves 2^-5 inches long and 1*4-24^ inches broad, dark green and slightly shiny on upper surface, with very many straight parallel lateral veins only about Vs2 inch apart and nearly at right angles to midrib, and without smaller veins. Other distinguishing characteristics are: (1) numerous small fragrant white flowers %-Vo inch broad in a lateral branched cluster 1-2 inches long; (2) the round, light brown, 1-seeded fruits nearly 1 inch in di- ameter; and (3) the whitish latex produced in small quantities. A medium-sized evergreen tree 40-65 feet high, becoming larger, and up to IV2 reet or more in di- ameter, with straight axis and usually a spreading crown. The bark is light gray and smooth or slightly fissured, becoming spotted with numerous dark protuberances on large trunks. Inner bark is whitish and bitter. The twigs are green, 4- angled, and minutely hairy when young, becoming gray. The petioles are XA~^A inch l°ng- Blades are rounded or minutely notched at apex, short- pointed at base, not toothed on edges, and slightly leathery. Some leaves have a rust, or fungus dis- ease, producing on the upper surface wartlike nar- row swellings V\$-XA inch long, becoming brown, and corresponding sunken brown areas on lower surface. Flower clusters (racemes) at leaf bases or on twigs back of leaves are much shorter than the leaves and have several flowers on slender stalks. Flowers are male and bisexual on the same tree (polygamous). There are 4 white rounded and concave sepals, 2 about XA inch long and 2 about half as long, widely spreading and turned back; petals commonly absent (or 1-4, smaller than the largest sepals and white) ; male flowers have about 40-50 stamens in a prominent orange cluster more than !/4 inch across and often a rudimentary pistil. Bisexual flowers have 8-12 stamens and a pistil consisting of round green ovary % inch in diam- eter, 1-celled with 1 ovule, short bent style, and flattened whitish stigma. 348 Calophyllum brasiliense Camb. The fruit (drupe) has a hard, dry shell and con- tains 1 large rounded seed. Flowering chiefly in spring and summer, the fruit maturing from late spring to winter, mostly in the fall. The sapwood is light brown or whitish, and the heartwood varies from light pinkish to reddish brown, often with fine darker stripes. The wood is hard, moderately heavy (specific gravity 0.55), fairly strong, and coarse-textured, and frequently has interlocked grain. It is moderately durable in contact with the ground but is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. Air-seasoning is slow and very difficult, and the amount of de- grade is considerable. Machining characteristics are as follows : planing is fair; shaping, mortising, sanding, and resistance to screw splitting are good ; and turning and boring are poor. Maria is classed as a construction wood, but the small trees now available are chiefly for posts. The attractive wood resembles mahogany and can be used for many of the same purposes but is some- what more difficult to season and work. Else- where it is used for furniture, cabinetmaking, flooring, shingles, interior construction, shipbuild- ing, house framing, agricultural implements, han- dles, vehicles, structural timbers, poles, and cross- ties. The latex or resin from the trunk, called bal- samo de maria, has been employed medicinally. The fruits are reported to be good food for hogs, and an oil has been extracted from the seeds. The tree is widety planted for ornament and shade along highways. When young, its crown may be shaped into a hedge or other forms. The fruits are apparently distributed by bats with the result that dense clumps of seedlings sometimes develop directly beneath coconut palms along the coast. Extensively planted in forest areas because of its adaptability to degraded soils and the ease with which it may be established by direct seed- ing. Seedlings do not survive transplanting well if lifted without a ball of earth. Almost the only valuable tree which grows well on the extremely laterite soils of the western mountains, where it attains 8 inches in diameter in 25 years. 161. Maria, santa-maria Natural size. Calophyllum brasiliense Camb. 349 Introduced for ornament and shade in southern Florida, and in parts of the West Indies planted as shade for coffee and cacao and for windbreaks. In Grenada the trees are windbreaks for nutmeg plantations. Probably native only in the moist coastal and moist limestone forest regions of Puerto Rico. Now distributed as well throughout the lower Cordillera and lower Luquillo regions with a few trees on the dry coast. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, and St. Thomas. Public forests. — Native in Cambalache, Guaja- taca, Rio Abajo, and Vega. Introduced into Carite, Guilarte, Luquillo, Maricao, Susiia, and Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 17, 34, 62, 74. Range. — This species with its geographic varie- ties also known as species is widely distributed through the West Indies and from Mexico to Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and Guianas. The variety in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, Calophy'lhim brasiliense var. antiUanum (Britton) Standi., also classed as a species by some authors, ranges from Cuba and Jamaica through the Lesser Antilles to Grenada, is naturalized in Bermuda, and is intro- duced in southern Florida. Other common names. — palo de maria, santa maria, aceite de maria (Puerto Rico) ; false- mamey (Virgin Islands) ; santa maria, maria (Spanish) ; baria, mara, palo maria (Dominican Republic) ; ocuje, ocuje Colorado (Cuba) ; barillo, mario, vario (El Salvador) ; cojon, cachicamo (Venezuela) ; jaeare-iiba, lagarto-caspi bianco (Peru) ; santa-maria, Brazil beauty-leaf (United States) ; santa-maria (English, commerce) ; wild- mamee (Jamaica) ; came-marie, damage, dalemarie (Haiti) ; galba (Guadeloupe, Dominica, Marti- nique, St. Vincent) ; galba odorant, calaba (Guadeloupe) ; koelarie, mani kwaha, koerahara (Surinam) ; guanandi, olandi, landi (Brazil). Botanical synonyms of Calophyllum brasilien.se var. antiUanum (Britton) Standi. — Calophyllwrn calaba Jacq., not L., C. antiUanum Britton, C. jacquinii Fawc. & Rendle. The common name maria is said to be of Carib Indian origin rather than Spanish. A closely re- lated species (Calophyllum lucidum Benth.) or variety known as galba occurs in Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, and British Guiana. 162. Cupeillo MANGOSTEEN FAMILY (GUTTIFERAE) Clusia krugiana Urban i This tree with orange or yellow latex is common in upper mountain forests of Puerto Rico. It is characterized by : ( 1 ) opposite, very thick, stiff and leathery, obovate dark green leaves, broadest near the rounded apex, gradually narrowed toward an almost stalkless base, and with edges consider- ably rolled under; (2) terminal branched clusters of several to many spreading yellow flowers about V2 inch across, male and female on different trees (dioecious) ; and (3) round green fleshy seed cap- sules %-% inch in diameter, splitting open and becoming 5-parted and star-shaped, exposing the orange pulp in which the light brown seeds are imbedded. A small to medium-sized evergreen tree to 40 feet high and 6-12 inches in trunk diameter, with a spreading crown of thick branches, sometimes with a few prop roots. The gray bark is smooth - ish, often covered with mosses, and within is pink- ish and slightly bitter, containing orange or yel- low latex. Twigs are stout and brownish, ringed at nodes. The stout broad petioles are only about Vs mch long. Blades are 2-5 inches long, \y<r-k inches broad, with the veins inconspicuous or scarcely visible on both sides, dark green and often slightly shiny above, and pale yellow green beneath. The flower clusters (cymose) are lVs^Vo inches long, the fleshy branches paired, and flower stalks Vs-% mc;h l°ng- There are 4 sepals about %6 inch long and 4 oblong yellow petals more than Vi inch in length. Male flowers have many stamens %6 inch long. Female flowers have pistil %6 inch long with 5-celled ovary and 5 blackish stigmas on top. The round green fruit retains the calyx at base and 5 stigmas at apex and when split open is IV2. inches across the 5 lobes. Several light brown seeds % inch long are imbedded in orange pulp. Flowering and fruiting probably through the year. The light brown wood is hard and heavy (spe- cific gravity 0.9) . As the trunk is seldom straight, the wood is used mostly for fuel. Common in the dwarf forests on mountain sum- mits in the upper Luquillo and Cordillera forest regions in Puerto Rico. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo, Maricao, Toro Negro. Range. — Puerto Rico and Hispaniola (Domini- can Republic). Cupey trepador (Clusia minor L.), a related shrub, small tree, or vine, has fleshy leaves with petioles %-3/i inch long, and clusters of few flowers with white to pink petals. Cupeillo de altura (Clusia gundlachii Stahl). or cupey de altura, a vinelike shrub or sometimes tree known only from Puerto Rico, has fleshy leaves with petioles Vi-% mcn l°ng, clusters of many small flowers, and oblong fruits about %, inch long. The fourth native species of this genus is described below. 350 62. Cupeillo Two-thirds natural size. Clusia krugiana Urban 351 MANGOSTEEN FAMILY (GUTTIFERAE) 163. Cupey, wild-mammee, copey clusia A tree with yellow resinous latex easily recog- nized by : (1) very broad spreading dense crown ; (2) opposite, very thick, stiff and leathery, obovate leaves, rounded or slightly notched at apex and gradually narrowed toward the short-pointed base; (3) showy, large, spreading, white flowers about 3 inches across the 6-8 obovate petals notched at apex, male and female on different trees (dioecious) ; and (4) nearly round fleshy seed cap- sules 2-2 1^ inches in diameter, yellow green turn- ing brown, splitting into 7-9 parts and containing many yellow seeds in orange-red pulp. Medium-sized evergreen tree to 60 feet high and 2 feet in trunk diameter, usually with prop roots at base. Like jagueyes or matapalos (Fieus spp.) , the trees often begin as air plants or epiphytes, the seed germinating in the fork of a tree and send- ing long aerial roots to the ground. In time these rapidly growing roots come together and encircle the host tree, finally forming a trunk around it and strangling and killing it. The gray bark is smoothish, slightly fissured and warty. Inner bark is pink brown and gritty, with yellow latex. The green twigs are stout and ringed at nodes. Petioles are V2-I inch long, green, stout, flat- tened, and enlarged at base. Blades are 3-6 inches long and 2-41/2 inches wide, broadest beyond middle, the edges slightly turned under, fleshy and with lateral veins scarcely visible, green to dark green and slightly shiny above and dull yellow green beneath. Flowers are terminal, 1-3 at end of twig on stalks i/o inch or more in length and curved down- ward. The buds are white, tinged with pink, about % inch in diameter. There are 4—6 rounded con- cave sepals i/2~% inch long, white and tinged with pink, and 6-8 white obovate fleshy petals about 1V4 inches long. Female flowers have a brown ring or cup of sterile stamens and a pistil with 7-9-celled ovary and green resinous mass of 7-9 stigmas V2 inch across. Male flowers have sepals, petals, and many stamens united in a ring, the inner ones in a resinous mass. The ball-like fruits are not edible and are con- sidered to be poisonous, though eaten by bats. They are broader than long, changing in color from yellow green to brown at maturity, retaining the sepals at base and flat blackish stigmas in a circle % inch across at apex. The seeds are %6 inch long. In flower or fruit throughout the year. The heartwood is reddish brown, and the sap- wood lighter colored. The wood is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.67), strong, of medium to fine texture, straight-grained, and without growth rings. It is moderately difficult to saw and raa- Clusia rosea Jacq. chine and is very susceptible to attack by dry-wood termites. The rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are moderate. Machining character- istics are as follows : planing and boring are fair ; and shaping, turning, mortising, sanding, and re- sistance to screw splitting are good. The wood is used mainly for fuel, fenceposts, rural construction, and crosst ies. It is suitable also for light and heavy construction, cheap furniture, farm implement parts, and tool handles. The yellow resinous latex of bark, fruit, and other parts of the tree hardens upon exposure and has been used variously, including calking the seams of boats in the Virgin Islands, as plaster, and in medicine. It is chronicled by Oviedo that the early Spanish conquistadores in the "West Indies made playing cards of the thick leaves, drawing the figures and spots with a pin and shuffling these substitutes in their gambling games in the absence of regular cards. Another early use was for writing paper. By strangling and killing more valuable trees, this species may be classed as a forest pest. How- ever, the leathery leaves and large flowers make it an attractive ornamental. As the heavy foliage is salt tolerant, this tree is suitable for ornamental plantings on exposed ocean front properties. Common in forests on river banks and hillsides- throughout Puerto Rico except in the upper moun- tain regions. Also in Mona, Desecheo, Vieques,- Culebra, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola, and recorded long ago from St. Croix. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guanica, Luquillo, Maricao, Susua, Vega. Municipalities where especially common — 11, 14, 20, 30, 31, 34, 45, 60, 62, 69. Range. — Nearly throughout West Indies from Bahamas and Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago and. Bonaire and Curacao. Very rare in Florida Keys but planted in southern Florida. Also from south I ern Mexico (Chiapas) to Colombia, Venezuela, anc French Guiana. Other common names. — pitch-apple, wild-fig. strangler-fig, false-mamey (Virgin Islands) ; cu pey, copey (Spanish) ; cape, gaque, cucharo (Co lombia) ; copey, tampaco, chuchi copei (Venezu ela) ; copey clusia, monkey-apple (United States) pitch-apple (Bahamas) ; balsam-tree, wild-fig (Ja maica) ; monkey-goblet (St. Vincent) ; Scotch-at torney, Scotchman, matapal (Trinidad) ; parrot- apple (Tobago); kufa (British Guiana); figuie1 maudit cimarron (Haiti) ; figuier maudit, figuie'( marron, abricotier maudit (Guadeloupe) ; arali<<; aralie grande feuille (Martinique); dam niacin, cuchiu, kopijk (Dutch West Indies) . i&c- 352 r &>A- 3. Cupey, wild-mammee, copey elusia Natural size. Clusia rosea Jacq. 353 MANGOSTEEN FAMILY (GUTTIFERAE) 164. Mamey, mammee-apple Mamey, a handsome wild or planted fruit tree, is best known for its brown nearly round edible fruits 3-10 inches in diameter. Other characters are : ( 1 ) an erect trunk with very dense shiny green columnar crown; (2) bark containing pale yellow latex, which is evident where cut; (3) op- posite elliptic leaves 4— 614 inches long and 2V4- 3% inches wide, thickened and leathery, glossy green to dark green above, and with numerous closely arranged, parallel lateral veins; and (4) large fragrant white flowers l1/^-^ inches across the usually 6 spreading petals, borne on twigs mostly back of leaves. An evergreen tree to 60 feet high and 2 feet in trunk diameter. The brown or gray bark is smoothish to slightly fissured, inner bark light brown or pinkish and bitter. The stout twigs are green when young, turning brown. Petioles are 14-% inch long and stout. Blades are rounded at apex and rounded or short-pointed at base, turned under slightly at edges, with veins slightly sunken on upper surface, and yellow green beneath. The leaves have gland dots visible with a hand lens against the light. The flowers are single or a few together on stout stalks %-% inch long, male and female and bi- sexual (polygamous). The flower bud is whitish green, turning brown, round to elliptic, V2~% hong, splitting into 2 sepals about % inch long. There are 4-6, usually 6, obovate spreading white petals 3/4-1 inch long. Male flowers have in the center numerous small crowded yellow stamens V2 incn high and % inch across, united at base. Female flowers have a pistil composed of 2- or 4-celled ovary with short style and usually broadly 2-lobed stigma. The fruit (berrylike) has a thick skin and firm bright yellow or reddish flesh with white sap. There are 2-4 very large oblong reddish-brown stones or seeds with rough fibrous surface. Ob- served in flower from May to October and with fruits during most of the year. The sapwood is light brown, and the heartwood reddish brown. The surface of this attractive wood often is flecked with small dark oily exuda- tions. It is hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.62), strong, medium-textured, and frequently has ir- regular and interlocked grain. Air-seasoning is moderate in rate but very difficult, and the amount of degrade is considerable. Machining character- istics are as follows : planing, turning, boring, and mortising are good; shaping and resistance to screw splitting are excellent ; and sanding is poor. The wood is very susceptible to attack by dry- Mammea americana L. wood termites but is moderately durable in the ground. The scattered trees in Puerto Rico serve for fruit, fenceposts, and fuel. Elsewhere the wood is employed for some types of general construction and carpentry and for piling. The fruits are eaten raw or made into preserves and marmalades. The skin and flesh next to the seeds are bitter. In the French West Indies an aromatic liqueur, known as "eau de Creole" or "creme de Creole," is distilled from the flowers. The gummy latex from the bark and the powdered seeds have been used as insecticides, to extract ehiggers and insects from the skin, and to kill ticks and other parasites of dogs and other domestic animals. When twisted into the shape of a cone, the leaves serve as pots for planting tobacco seed- lings and protect the young plants from root- destroying insects. The large seeds are reported to be poisonous, though not eaten by livestock. They are highly toxic to certain types of insects, to fish, and to chicks. Planted in Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands (St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola) for the edible fruits and for shade and ornament. A com- mon tree along roadsides and fence rows. Appar- ently native to the moist coastal forest of Puerto Rico. Municipalities where especially common.— 31, 47. Range. — Native of West Indies. Spread by cul ti vat ion over tropical America in southern Flor ida, Bermuda, West Indies from Bahamas anc Cuba to Trinidad and Tobago, and Mexico soutl to Brazil and in the Old World tropics. Other common names. — mamee (Virgin Is lands) ; mamey (Spanish) ; mamey de Santo Do mingo, mamey amarillo (Cuba) ; zapote mame3\ zapote de niho, zapote de Santo Domingo (Mex ico) ; ruri (Nicaragua) ; mamey de Cartagen (Panama, Ecuador); mata-serrano (Ecuador);: mamey, mammee-apple (United States, English) ;| apricot (Dominica) ; abricot, abricotier (Hait Guadeloupe, Martinique) ; abricot des Antille I abricot de Saint-Domingue, abricot pays (Gui- deloupe, Martinique) ; mamie, abricotier, abr cotier d'Amerique (French Guiana) ; maim! mamaya (Dutch West Indies) ; mammi, mami boom, mamaja (Surinam) ; abrico do Para, abr coteiro (Brazil). The generic name is derived from the nati' 1 West Indian name. 354 34. Mamey, mammee-apple Two-thirds natural size. Mammea americana L. 355 MANGOSTEEN FAMILY (GUTTIFERAE) 165. Palo de cruz Palo de cruz is easily identified by its opposite, elliptic or obovate, shiny dark green leaves which are small, thick and stiff, with sunken midrib, and curved downward from the long-pointed base to the long-pointed sharp spine V§— 14 mcn long. Other distinguishing characteristics are: (1) reg- ular opposite branching of twigs at right angles from the axis; (2) pale yellow latex in inner bark, twigs, leaves, and fruits; (3) small, pale yellow, pinkish-tinged flowers about 1/4 inch across, sev- eral or 1 at leaf bases: and (4) bright yellow ellip- tic berry 1-1 14 inches long. Commonly a small tree to 20 feet high (formerly to 65 feet, according to earlier reports) and 4 inches in trunk diameter, evergreen, with narrow crown of drooping or horizontal branches and dark green foliage. The bark is brown and smooth or slightly fissured. Inner bark is reddish, bitter, with pale yellow latex in innermost part. The twigs are green and slightly angled when young, becoming gray and enlarged at nodes. The leaves have short erect petioles y^/% inch long and blades lV^-^/i inches long and %-2 inches broad. Margins are turned under slightly, and the lower surface is light green. Lateral flowers on stalks about Vi-% inch long are bisexual and male and female on the same or different trees (polygamous or dioecious). There are 2 yellow-green sepals Vie inch long; 4 pale yellow petals pinkish at base, V%-x/± inch long; sta- mens about 7-10 (about 18 stamens around a broad Rheedia portoricensis Urban whitish disk in male flowers) ; and pistil with rounded pinkish 2-celled ovary less than Vs inc& long and 2-lobed flat stigma (sometimes ovary is 3-celled and stigma 3-lobed) . The fleshy fruits are pointed and contain usually 2 large seeds. Flow- ering and fruiting at different times during the year. The sapwood is very light brown, and the heart- wood light brown. The wood is very hard, heavy (specific gravity 0.9) , and very fine-textured. Be- cause of the small size of this tree its wood is usee only for posts. Forests of the lower Luquillo Mountain region and thickets of the moist and dry coastal regions^ Also in Vieques. A handsome small tree of pos^ sible ornamental value. Public forests. — Carite, Luquillo, Susua. Range. — Known only from Puerto Rico an<; Vieques. Other common name. — guayabacoa (Puert Rico). Botanical synonym. — Rheedia acummat ; (Spreng.) Planch. & Tr., not R. acuminata (Rui: &Pav.) Planch. &Tr. The common name palo de cruz (tree of cross > refers to the branching of twigs at right angles to the straight axis in the shape of a cross. A second native species (Rheedia hessii Britton ) known only from near Maricao apparently is rar It has narrowly lance-shaped leaves less than 1 inch long:. 356 v^iO "i v 1 > I / W 7^7^^ U\ 1 \ \ \ \ \ V*" //A lAY * '5. Palo de cruz Natural size. Rheedia portoricensis Urban 357 ANATTO FAMILY (BIXACEAE*) 166. Achiote, anatto Achiote, or anatto, a small tree planted for the orange-red dye on the seeds, has become natural- ized. It is characterized by : (1) thin ovate leaves long-pointed at apex, heart-shaped at base, and long-petioled ; (2) large, showy, pinkish or pur- plish-tinged or whitish flowers D/2-2 inches across the 5 spreading petals, several or few in terminal clusters; (3) reddish-brown to dark brown, rounded seed capsules 1-11,4 inches long and broad, densely covered with soft prickles up to ^ inch long; (4) orange sap in the inner bark; and (5) twigs ringed at nodes. A small evergreen tree commonly less than 15 feet high and 4 inches in trunk diameter. The bark is light brown and smoothish, with many warty dots (lenticels), or fissured. Inner bark is pinkish toward outside and orange within, and often slightly bitter. The twigs are green and with minute, rusty, reddish-brown scales, becom- ing dark brown. The alternate leaves have slender petioles 1-3 inches long. Leaf blades are 314-71/2 inches long and 21/2-41/2 inches broad, thin, with minute scales when young but becoming hairless or remaining slightly scaly on lower surface, green or dark green on upper surface, and gray to brownish green beneath. Flower clusters (panicles) are branched, and the fragrant flowers are on scaly stalks. There are 5 brownish-green sepals about % inch long, covered with reddish-brown scales and soon fall- ing; 5 broad, rounded, pinkish or purplish-tinged or whitish petals about 1 inch long ; numerous pur- plish stamens about % inch long; and pistil % inch long composed of bristly 1-celled ovary, style, and short 2-lobed stigma. Seed capsules are somewhat flattened and split into 2 parts. There are many angular seeds about %6 inch long, with bright orange-red fleshy seed coat. Flowering mainly in spring and maturing fruits chiefly in summer. The sapwood is whitish, and the heartwood is light brown or yellowish. The wood is soft, Bixa orellana L.* lightweight (specific gravity 0.4), porous, weak, and not durable. Commercially important for the orange-red dye called anatto. Extracted in the kitchen by boiling the seeds in cooking fat or oil, anatto is used to color rice, margarine, butter, cheese, soups, andi other foods but adds no flavor. It is a dye for oils, varnishes, and cosmetics also. Indians have painted their faces and bodies with this pigment, which also is reported to give relief from insects. The conspicuous pinkish flowers and prickly fruits also make this plant an attractive ornamen- tal, and the flowers are a source of honey. Ropes and twine have been made from the fibrous bark, and a gum similar to gum arabic has been obtained from the branches. It is said that fire can hi* started by friction of two pieces of the soft wood I In some places the seeds and leaves have been em ployed in domestic medicine. Grown around houses and occasionally natural ized in nearby thickets on the coastal plains on Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, Sm Thomas, and St. John. Range. — Native of continental tropical Amer' ica but spread by cultivation and now from Mexio to Argentina and Brazil. Widely planted an< naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions 0 the world. Through West Indies from Cuba an. Jamaica to Barbados and Trinidad. Uncommo in cultivation in southern Florida. Othek common names.- — achote, bija (Puert Rico) ; roucou (Virgin Islands) ; achiote, achol* (Spanish) ; bija (Dominican Republic, Cub:. Venezuela); chaya, xayau (Guatemala); cuaji chote (El Salvador); onoto, onotillo, caituc (Venezuela); shambu (Peru); urucu (Bolivi . Argentina) ; annato, annatto, anatto-tree (Enj lish) ; roucou (Trinidad and Tobago) ; atta (Bri. ish Honduras) ; onoto (British Guiana) ; roucoi roucouyer (French) ; achiot (French Guiana rucu, roucou (Dutch West Indies) ; roucou, koeso: wee (Surinam) ; urucu, achiote (Brazil). 358 6. Achiote, anatto 687-9210—64 24 Natural size. Bixa orellana L. 359 COCHLOSPERMUM FAMILY (COCHLOSPERMACEAE*) 167. Rosa imperial, Brazilian-rose, cochlospermum This introduced, cultivated ornamental is dis- tinguished by : ( 1 ) quantities of large, showy, bright yellow roselike flowers 3-4 inches across, borne in terminal clusters usually when the trees are leafless; and (2) long-petioled, deeply pal- mately lobed leaves with usually 5 long-pointed toothed lobes. The double-flowered form with many petals grown in Puerto Rico does not mature fruits and seeds. A small to medium-sized deciduous tree to 25 feet tall and 1 foot in trunk diameter, with rela- tively few stout branches. The bark is gray, smoothish and becoming slightly furrowed. Inner bark is brown streaked, fibrous, slightly bitter, and yields a gum. Twigs are green when young, becoming brown. The alternate leaves have petioles 3-7 inches in length, green and tinged with red, and a pair of minute threadlike stipules at base which soon shed. Leaf blades measure about 4-8 inches long and broad, are heart-shaped at base, and have us- ually 5 (rarely 3 or 7) spreading lobes, each with a prominent central vein and small teeth along the edges. Upper surface of the thin blades is green to dark green and slightly shiny, and the lower surface lighter gray green, finely hairy to nearly hairless. Flowers are borne on long stalks in erect spread- ing terminal clusters (panicles), sometimes a few on shrubby plants only 3-5 feet high. There are 5 green to yellow-green sepals V&~% inch long, the outer 2 pointed and smaller and the inner 3 rounded and broader. In the double-flowered Puerto Rican form there are many widely spread- ing, rounded, elliptic, bright yellow petals D/2-2 inches long. Numerous spreading orange stamens %-% inch long with curved slender filaments and curved narrow anthers are in the center, but a functional pistil is lacking. Blooming mostly from January to March, during the drier part of the year. The more widespread single-flowered form not found in Puerto Rico has only 5 petals about 2 inches long, notched at apex, and in the center of the many stamens a pistil consisting of a green rounded ovary %6 inch in diameter, 5-carpeled, and a slender curved yellow style about 1V4 inch long. On wild trees the large elliptic dark brown capsules about 3 inches long and 2 inches in diam- eter hang down from curved stalks. The incon- spicuously hairy, thin-walled capsules split into Cochlospermum vitifolium (Willd.) Spreng.* 5 parts, releasing many dark brown kidney-shaped seeds %6 inch long, imbedded in masses of soft cottony white hairs. The whitish to light brown wood is soft, spongy, very lightweight, perishable, and of little use. Planted for ornament on the coastal plains of Puerto Rico and in the Virgin Islands, growing: rapidly and best in dry areas. Reported to be a i honey plant. The trees are propagated easily by, cuttings. The more attractive double-flowered form in Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, Dominica, and: perhaps a few other islands of the West Indies is preferred for cultivation but apparently is little • known elsewhere. Both the normal and double- flowered forms are grown in St. Thomas. Hedgef- and living fences can be formed by planting; branches and pruning them back. Elsewhere, rope has been made from the fibrou: bark, and the cotton around the seeds is used fo stuffing pillows. A home remedy has been ex tracted from wood and leaves. Range. — Continental tropical America fror western Mexico through Central America ant northern South America to Ecuador, Peru, Be livia, Brazil, Guianas, and Trinidad, chiefly in dr forests. Planted for ornament in the West Indies, such as in Cuba and Puerto Rico, and other trop: ■•, cal areas and as far north as southern Florida an , i southern California. Other common names. — rosa china, emperatri : de la selva, rosa de Maximiliano (Puerto Rico); rose-of-Sharon (Virgin Islands) ; botija, paloboco (Cuba) ; tecomasuche (Mexico, Guatemala, L Salvador) ; rosa amarilla, chuun, cocito, apom panaco (Mexico) ; jicarillo (Honduras) ; ch pochote, pumpo, pumpumjuche, tecomatii (Guatemala) ; bombon, tecomasiichil (El Salv; dor) ; poroporo (Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panam | Colombia) ; bombon, catamericuche (Nicaragua carnestolendas, bototo (Colombia, Venezuela' papayote (Colombia); bototillo, bototito, botu I (Eucador) ; huimba, quillo-sisa (Peru); cochl i spermum, shellseed (English); rose-of-Pe:l (Dominica) ; wild-cotton, pochote (British Hot duras) ; kanakuchiballi, wild-cotton (Britil Guiana) ; njoe fodoe (Surinam). Botanical synonyms. — Maseimilianea vitifoi (Willd.) Krug & Urban, Cochlospermum hibs coides Kunth. The descriptive specific name, meaning "graf i leaf," recalls the similarity of the leaves to those cultivated grapes. 360 7. Rosa imperial, Brazilian-rose, cochlospermur Two-thirds natural size. Cochlospermum vitifolium (Willd.) Spreng. 361 CANELLA FAMILY (CANELLACEAE) 168. Barbasco, canella This small tree characteristic of dry areas is identified by: (1) a dense crown of obovate or spoon-shaped, leathery shiny green leaves lVi-^1/^ inches long and %-l1/£> inches broad, rounded at apex and gradually narrowed toward base, aro- matic and with peppery stinging taste; (2) small dark red, purplish-tinged flowers y± incn l°ng and broad, several to many in terminal flat-topped clusters shorter than the leaves; (3) round red (or purplish-black) berries about % inch in diam- eter; and (4) aromatic, gray, smoothish, slightly warty bark with burning or stinging taste. An evergreen tree to 20 feet high and 5-8 inches in trunk diameter, or shrubby. The thin bark sometimes is fissured. Inner bark is whitish. The twigs are green at apex, becoming gray, with spicy taste. The alternate leaves are crowded near ends of twigs, with petioles Vg-Vi inch long. Leaf blades are broadest beyond middle, with edges slightly turned under, thickened, with few indistinct veins, minutely gland dotted, and paler beneath. Flower clusters (corymbs) are branched, about 1 inch long and broad, with fragrant spreading flowers on stalks about % inch long. There are 3 broad, rounded, blue-green sepals less than Vs incn long; 5 elliptic rounded fleshy petals 3/16 inch long, dark red but purplish on outside; about 20 red stamens united by filaments and anthers into a tube more than % inch long; and pistil %6 inch long consisting of light green 1-celled ovary with short style and very slightly 2-lobed stigma, pro- truding through stamen tube. Berries are fleshy, with a few black seeds %6 inch long. Flowering and fruiting probably irregularly through the year. The sapwood is olive brown, and the heartwood blackish. The wood is very hard and very heavy (specific gravity 0.9-1.0). In Puerto Rico it is seldom utilized except for posts because of the Canella winterana (L.) Gaertn. small size of the trees. Uses elsewhere have beeur for plows, poles, and beams. Canella bark, the wild cinnamon bark of com- merce, has served in medicine though rarely a present as an aromatic stimulant and slight toni< and also as a condiment. The leaves have beei employed similarly and as a fish poison. The ber ries are reported to be hot like black pepper when gathered green and dried. Also a honey plant! the flowers being very rich in nectar. Though thi usually is not regarded as a poisonous plant, tfl leaves and stems were toxic to poultry in feedinj, trials in St. Croix. Planted around houses in the Virgin Island; In southern Florida this is a hardy ornaments I shrub grown for the numerous bright red berrieii borne m spring. Thickets in the dry coastal and limestone rt> gions of Puerto Rico and also at Cabezas de Sam Juan at the northeastern corner of the islanu Also on Mona, Icacos, Vieques, St. Croix, S\ Thomas, St. John, and Anegada. Public forests. — Guanica, Maricao, Susua. Range. — Southern Florida including FloricJ Keys, Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico ard Virgin Islands, and Lesser Antilles from St. Ma ■ tin and Barbuda to St. Lucia and Barbados. Other common names.— canela (Puerto Rico wild cinnamon, caneel, pepper cinnamon, cil!i ment-bush (Virgin Islands) ; canela de la tien i canelilla (Dominican Republic); curbana, pic- pica, malambo, canela blanca (Cuba) ; canella, ci i naraon canella (United States) ; canella, wild ci i namon, whitewood bark (English); cinnamon bark (Bahamas) ; canelle poivree (Haiti) ; can] lier blanc, canellier batard, bois canelle (Guaa loupe). Botanical synonyms. — Canella alba Mui: Winterana canella L. 362 8. Barbasco, canella Natural size. Canella winterana (L.) Gaertu. 363 FLACOURTIA FAMILY (FLACOURTIACEAE) Key to the 5 species illustrated (Nos. 169-173) A. Flowers in short lateral clusters ; fruit a rounded or an elliptic seed capsule. B. Leaves many, evenly spaced on long slender twigs, appearing pinnate ; seed capsules %6 inch or less u diameter. C. Leaves with lower surface gray green, hairy ; edges toothed — 169. Casearia arborea. CC. Leaves green on both surfaces ; edges appearing as if without teeth — 172. Casearea sylvestris. BB. Leaves few ; seed capsules about % inch in diameter. D. Leaves less than 3 inches long, hairless ; seed capsules round — 170. Casearea decandra. DD. Leaves 2%-5% inches long, hairy on veins ; seed capsules elliptic — 171. Casearia guianensis. AA. Flowers in long-stalked lateral clusters : fruit of seed capsules resembling dried flowers with 6 or 7 large brow i sepals attached — 173. Homalium racemosum. 169. Rabo raton Casearia arborea (L. C. Rich.) Urbai This very common small tree is distinguished by: ( 1 ) many crowded lance-shaped or narrowly oblong leaves flattened in 2 rows on long, slender, nearly horizontal or slightly drooping twigs; (2) the leaves long-pointed, finely saw-toothed, and the lower surface gray green and covered with minute hairs; and (3) small greenish-white bell- shaped flowers %6 inch long and broad and seed capsules %6 inch in diameter in clusters at leaf bases. An evergreen tree to 30 feet high and 6 (rarely 10) inches in trunk diameter, or shrubby. The thin gray-brown bark is smootbish. Inner bark is light brown and slightly bitter. The twigs are finely hairy and brown, green when young. The alternate leaves have short hairy petioles Vs inch long and thin blades lV^-4 inches long and V2-I inch broad, short-pointed at base, shiny green and almost hairless on upper surface and densely gray-green hairy beneath. Many minute gland dots and lines can be seen when a leaf is examined with a hand lens against the light- Several to many small flowers are borne in lat- eral clusters (umbels) about V2 inch across at bases of leaves, each on a short., hairy, jointed stalk less than Vs inch long. The whitish or greenish-white, bell-shaped flowers consist of the calyx with 5 finely hairy, spreading lobes about !/8 inch long; 10 stamens attached to calyx and alternating with smaller hairy sterile stamens (staminodes) ; and pistil with 1-celled ovary with style and rounded stigma. Seed capsules become reddish and black- ish. Flowering and fruiting through the year. Sapwood is hard and brittle, very light browi . The tree is used chiefly for posts and fuel in Puert 1 Rico. Abundant and widely distributed along roac- sides and in openings, thickets, and forests, in tr lower mountain, moist limestone, and moist coast? I regions of Puerto Rico. (Also reported long a^j: from St. Thomas, perhaps in error.) Public forests. — Carite, Guajataca, Guilart Luquillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susua, Toro Negr > Municipalities where especially common. — 19, 20. 27, 29, 35, 40. 49, 51, 52, 53, 64. Range. — Cuba, Hispaniola, and Puerto Ric 1 Recorded from Honduras, British Honduras, ar : Costa Rica in Central America. Also in Souif America from Guianas to Brazil, Bolivia, ai ( Peru. Other common names. — rabo junco (Puer' Rico) ; palo de yagua, palo salvaje, cascarita (D) minican Republic) ; guaguasi, jique, guasimil (Cuba) ; 11a j as (Peru). Two additional species of this genus are nati I in Puerto Rico besides the 4 illustrated hen Casearia aculeata Jacq., a shrub or small tree ) southern and western Puerto Rico, has ellipii leaves 1-2% inches long, usually hairy beneath a: distinguished by spines %-lVi inches long, oft ! branched, on the twigs. Talantron (Casearia hicolor Urban), appsi ently rare, is a tree species known only from t Cordillera near Utuado. It has narrow oblo ij leaves 3-41^ inches long and 1-1% inches wia- short-pointed at apex and rounded at base. 364 :9. Ratio rat6n Natural size. Casearia arborea (L. C. Rich.) Urban 365 FLACOURTIA FAMILY (FLACOURTLACEAE) 170. Tostado, wild honey-tree This shrub or small tree is characterized by : (1) the small, yellow-green elliptic leaves less than 3 inches long, finely saw-toothed, thin, and shedding in winter; (2) the many small greenish-white flowers Vi inch across in clusters about % inch across at nodes when twigs are leafless; and (3) the round seed capsules % inch in diameter, pale yellow or brown, edible but almost tasteless. A deciduous shrub or small tree to 15 feet high and to 3 inches in trunk diameter, with spreading crown. The gray bark is smooth and thin, the inner bark light brown and tasteless. The slender hairless twigs are green when young, becoming brown. The alternate leaves have short petioles Vg-V^ inch long and thin blades lVi-3 inches long and %-lV4 inches broad, long- or short-pointed at apex and short-pointed or rounded at base, green on both sides and slightly shiny above, hairless except for inconspicuous tufts of hairs usually in vein angles beneath. Many finely hairy flowers are bome in lateral flower clusters (umbels) on slender stalks about %6 inch long, jointed near base. The calyx is deeply divided into 5 narrow, finely hairy, spread- ing lobes Yg inch long; 10 hairy stamens attached near base of calyx are alternate with smaller hairy sterile stamens (staminodes) ; and pistil consist- ing of hairy 1 -celled ovary, slender hairy style, and rounded stigma. Casearia decandra Jacqi The fleshy seed capsules are single or sometime paired on twigs back of the leaves and split into parts. There are 2-1 seeds in the orange-colore flesh. Flowering and fruiting at different time during the year. The light brown, hard sapwood perhaps is use as roundwood where the trees are of sufficient siz i The fruits are edible, as the common name ceres (cherry) indicates, but almost tasteless. An ir portant honey plant. Common and widely distributed in thickets ai as an understory tree in moist coastal and lowr mountain forests in Puerto Rico. Also in Viequi St. Thomas, St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gore1 (Reported long ago from St. Croix also.) Public forests. — Cambalache, Guajataca, L, quillo, Maricao, Rio Abajo, Susiia, Toro Negro. Range. — Hispaniola, Puerto Rico and Virgj Islands, throughout Lesser Antilles, Trinidad a Tobago, and Margarita. Also in Costa Rica a northern South America from Colombia and Vei zuela to Brazil and Peru. Other common names.— palo bianco, cerezo, j mausa, cotorrelillo (Puerto Rico) ; wild-che] (Virgin Islands) ; machacomo, tapaculo (Ve zuela) ; fortuga caspi, limoncaspi (Peru) ; jumb apple (Grenadines) ; wild-cherry (Barbado pipewood, biscuit wood (Trinidad) ; bois jai (Guadeloupe). 366 m *vJ &L. J: y 'V 70. Tostado, wild honey-tree Natural size. Casearia decandra Jacq. 367 FLACOURTIA FAMILY (FLACOURTIACEAE) 171. Palo bianco, wild-coffee This small tree is characterized by: (1) thin elliptic or obovate, light green leaves, abruptly short -pointed or rounded at apex, with toothed edges and sunken curved lateral veins, arranged in 2 rows on the twigs: (2) whitish or yellowish spreading flowers %6 inch across, several in clus- ters at leaf bases; and (3) the elliptic fruits nearly V2 inch long, splitting into 3 parts. Evergreen shrub or small tree 15 feet high (re- ported to 30 feet) and 2 inches or more in trunk diameter, with spreading crown. The smooth thin bark is light gray or whitish, the inner bark light brown and slightly bitter. The twigs are green and finely hairy when young, becoming gray. The alternate leaves are borne in 2 rows on short green petioles Vi inch long. Leaf blades are 2V2~ 5V2 inches long and IV4-2V2 inches broad, often widest beyond middle, short- or long-pointed at base, hairless except on veins, the lower surface pale green and with raised veins. Numerous mi- nute gland dots and a few lines can be seen when a leaf is viewed with a hand lens against the light. Lateral flower clusters (umbels) are composed of several flowers on slender hairy stalks %— V4 inch long, which are jointed below middle. The whitish or yellowish calyx %6 inch long consists of 5 widely spreading, finely hairy lobes; there are usually 8 stamens inserted near base of calyx and alternating with smaller hairy sterile stamens Casearia guianensis (Aubl.) Urban (staminodes) ; and pistil composed of 1-cellec ovary, style, and rounded stigma. The elliptic seed capsules, commonly borm singly, are % inch or more in length, greenish slightly fleshy. Flowering and fruiting probably through the year. The sapwood is light brown, hard, and heav;i (specific gravity 0.7). Used only for fuel. Scattered in moist coastal and lower mountain regions in Puerto Rico. Also Vieques, St. Croiss St. Thomas, and St. John. Public fokests. — Cambalache, Luquillo, Rn Aba jo. Range. — Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puert • Rico and Virgin Islands, Lesser Antilles frori Antigua to Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, an L Margarita. Also in southern Mexico, Centrc America, and northern South America in Ven( zuela and Guianas. Other common names. — cafeillo, cafetilb (Puerto Rico) ; cafe cimarron, cafe de gallina, pal bianco (Dominican Republic) ; jia amarilh (Cuba); limoncillo (El Salvador); palo de ]K cruz (Panama) ; palo bianco (Colombia) ; punt) de ral, palo amarillo, huesito, limoncillo (Vera zuela) ; pipewood (Trinidad) ; kibihidan (Britisi Guiana ) . Botanical synonym. — Casearia ramiflora Vab 368 71. Palo bianco, wild-coffee Natural size. Casearia guianensis (Aubl.) Urban 369 FLACOURTIA FAMILY (FLACOURTIACEAE) 172. Cafeillo This rather common and widely distributed shrub or small tree is recognized by: (1) the shiny green lance-shaped to elliptic leaves longer than 2V2 inches, mostly long-pointed, thicker than those of related species, edges wavy and incon- spicuously toothed but appearing as if without teeth, hairless, in 2 rows in a flattened arrange- ment on long, unbranched twigs; (2) many minute greenish or yellowish-white flowers about % inch across, crowded on short stalks at leaf bases ; and (8) rounded, red, fleshy seed capsules % inch or more in diameter, containing usually 3 brown seeds. Evergreen shrub or small tree 10-15 feet high and to 4 inches in trunk diameter, also recorded as up to 65 feet in height, with rounded spreading crown, sometimes several trunks, hairless through- out. The thin gray bark is smoothish with warty dots (lenticels). Inner bark is whitish and taste- less or slightly bitter. The long, slender, un- branched twigs commonly are horizontal or slight- ly drooping, green and afterwards becoming gray. Leaves are alternate on short green petioles ^4 inch long. The blades vary in size as well as shape, 2i/2-7 inches long and 1-3 inches broad, mostly with a long narrow point at apex and short- pointed at base, the upper surface with sunken veins, and the lower surface light green. When examined with a hand lens against the light, the leaves show numerous minute lighter gland dots and lines within the network of veins. Flower clusters (umbels) are lateral, about V2 inch across, with numerous small greenish or yel- lowish-white flowers about Vs mcn across on slender stalks of the same color, Vs mcn l°ng anc^ jointed near middle. Each flower consists of usual- ly 5 spreading calyx lobes more than y16 inch long; about 10 stamens inserted near base of calyx and alternating with sterile stamens (staminodes) ; Casearia sylvestris Sw. and pis':il composed of green ovary with short style and 3-lobed stigma. The rounded, red, fleshy seed capsules split into 3 parts and have usually 3 brown seeds Vie inch long. Flowering and fruiting, throughout the year. Sapwood is light brown, heartwood dark brown. The wood is hard, heavy, strong, and fine-textured. Classed as fuelwood. Suitable for small handles and elsewhere used in carpentry and for poles. A honey plant, the fragrant flowers attracting! bees. Very common, especially in open areas, road sides, and also in forest understory, in moist coasts, and lower mountain regions in Puerto Rico. Also in Vieques, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, anc Tortola. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Gua. jataca, Luquillo, Rio Aba jo, Susua, Toro Negro< Range. — Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerk Rico and Virgin Islands, throughout Lesser An tilles, and Trinidad and Tobago. Also fron southern Mexico to Peru, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. Botanical varieties have been distin guished in different areas. Other common names. — cafe silvestre, cafeilh cimarron, palo bianco (Puerto Rico) ; sarnilla, jii colorada, juba rompehueso (Cuba) ; guayabillo palo de cotona (Mexico) ; corallilo, saemuds (Guatemala); barredera (El Salvador); sombn de armado, sombra de conejo (Honduras) ; comidi de culebra (Nicaragua) ; corta lingua (Panama) dondequiera, mahajo (Colombia) ; tortolito, guar yabito, punteral, tacasito, pabito (Venezuela) avati-timbati, palo rajador, guazatumba, cambagu (Argentina) ; wild-coffee (Trinidad) ; wild-sag.) (British Honduras) ; papelite (Haiti) ; crack-ope: (Saba) ; guassatunga (Brazil). Botanical synonym. — Casearia parvif,or< auth., not (L.) Willd. 370 . 72. Cafeillo Natural size. Casearia sylvestris Sw. 371 FLACOURTIA FAMILY (FLACOURTLACEAE) 173. Caracolillo A large tree characterized by : (1) elliptic leaves with wavy-toothed edges, abruptly short-pointed at apex and rounded or short-pointed at base, spreading in 2 rows; (2) the lateral flower clusters 2-6 inches long bearing few to many grayish or pale green, finely hairy, widely spreading flowers %-y2 inch across the 6 or 7 spreading petals ; and (3) brown seed capsules resembling dried flowers with dead brown sepals attached. Large trees stand out because of their pale or light green foli- age and their white bark. An evergreen tree to 70 feet or more in height and 2 feet in trunk diameter, with narrow or spreading crown. The light gray to white bark is thin and smooth, becoming slightly fissured and scaly. Inner bark is light brown and bitter. The slender twigs are brown, green when young, hair- less or nearly so. The alternate leaves have short petioles %-% inch long. Leaf blades are variable in shape and size, 2-5 inches long and 1^4—2^ inches broad, thin or slightly thickened, hairless or often with minute tufts in vein angles beneath, shiny green above and beneath dull green and slightly paler. The usually narrow flower clusters (racemes or panicles) are borne singly at leaf bases and vary greatly in length and in number of flowers. The slender, finely hairy axis has flowers on short stalks about y16 inch long or sometimes 3 on a branch less than V4 inch long. The calyx borne on the tubular base (hypanthium) has 6 or 7 widely spreading, pointed, hairy sepals Vs-%6 inch long; there are as many spreading petals %6 inch long, pointed, and hairy; numerous stamens in groups of mostly 4—6 opposite the petals and al- ternate with glands; and the pistil with hairy, half inferior ovary conical at both ends and with 3 styles % inch long separate to base or partly united. The seed capsule and spreading sepals fall to- Homalium racemosum Jacq. gether. There is usually 1 rounded brown seed more than y16 inch long. Flowering and fruiting from spring to fall (April to September) . The attractive golden yellow sapwood merges gradually into the grayish-brown to reddish-brown heartwood, frequently with irregular darker streaks and patches. The wood is very hard, very heavy (specific gravity 0.77), moderately, strong, fine-textured, and with interlocked grain. It is resistant to attack by dry- wood termites. Rate of air-seasoning and amount of degrade are- moderate. Machining characteristics are as fol- lows : planing, shaping, turning, mortising, and I sanding are good ; boring is excellent ; and resist- ance to screw splitting is very poor. The wood is used for general construction, al- though its hardness is a disadvantage. It is suit- able for tool handles, sporting and athletic goods, agricultural implements, boat parts, and heavy? construction. Widely distributed in Puerto Rico in forests, thickets, and along streams, in the upper and lower mountain, the limestone, and coastal regions. Public forests. — Cambalache, Carite, Guaja- taca, Guanica, Guilarte, Luquillo, Rio Abajo, Susua, Toro Negro. Municipalities where especially common. — 24, 60. Range. — Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles from St. Kitts to Guadeloupe and Martinique. Also from Mexico to Venezuela, Surinam, and northern Brazil. Other common names. — tostado, guajanilla, cereza (Puerto Rico) ; corazon de paloma (Domin- ican Republic) ; caramacate, marfil, granadillo de; clavo, verdecito (Venezuela) ; bois de hetre, acoma blanc, acoma hetre, acoma franc (Guadeloupe) ; acomat (Martinique) ; bietahoedoe (Surinam). Botanical synonyms. — Homalium pleiandrum Blake, H. hemistylum Blake, H . leiogynum Blake. 372 3. Caracolillo Natural size. Homalium racemosum Jacq. 373 PAPAYA FAMILY (CARICACEAE*) 174. Lechosa, papaya Papaya, a familiar small tree with distinctive pungent odor, is widely grown for its delicious edible fruits and also is naturalized. It is easily recognized by: (1) usually unbranched, soft, suc- culent trunk with thin milky sap, bearing a clus- ter of alternate spreading leaves at apex ; (2) large long-petioled leaves with palmately 7- or 9-lobed blades, deeply cut into smaller long- or short- pointed lobes ; (3) male and female flowers whitish or pale yellow, on different plants (dioecious), the narrow tubular male flowers 1-1 Vk inches long and numerous in branched clusters, and the larger fe- male flowers about 2 inches long, with 5 spreading petals and borne nearly stalkless, single or a few together at base of a leaf; and (4) fruit clustered around the trunk, usually 6-15 inches long, oblong, obovoid, or rounded, and short-pointed. A rapidly growing short-lived evergreen shrub or tree to 20 feet tall, with trunk usually less than 8 inches in diameter (rarely to 24 feet high and 16 inches in diameter) and with a narrow crown. The bark is greenish or grayish brown to light gray, smooth, with prominent broad to nearly horizontal leaf scars. The greenish or yellowish inner bark has a spicy or slightly bitter taste. Be- cause of the soft almost herbaceous stem and short life of a few years, this species is also regarded as a giant perennial herb rather than a tree. Upper leaves are erect spreading and lower leaves drooping. The stout green petioles are 16-24 inches or more in length, round and hollow. Leaf blades are rounded in outline, 8-24 inches in diameter, slightly thickened and fleshy, dull light green above and beneath pale whitish green and covered with a bloom. The slender lateral cluster (panicle) of many fragrant male flowers is 6-24 incbes long or longer. A male flower has short 5-toothed calyx about y16 inch long; whitish corolla of narrow funnel- shaped tube about 3/4-l1/4 inches long and 5 widely spreading narrow oblong lobes more than l/£ inch long and extending 1 inch or more across; 10 yel- lowish stamens inserted in throat of corolla tube, 5 stalkless and 5 short-stalked; and rudimentary narrow pistil about % inch long. The short- stalked female flowers have 5-toothed green calyx %6-% inch long, 5 twisted narrow lance-shaped fleshy pale yellow petals about 2 inches long, soon falling; and pale yellow pistil %-1^4 inches long with large elliptic or round ovary, 1-celled with 5 ridges covered with ovules, and 5 spreading stalk- less much-lobed stigmas. Rarely perfect flowers with both stamens and a pistil are produced (polygamous). Several to many short-stalked fruits (berries) hang down from the trunk of a female tree near its summit, turning from green to orange at ma- turity. The soft orange flesh 1-2 inches thick with Carica papaya L.* milky juice surrounds a large central cavity con- taining many rounded blackish seeds about %6,,j inch in diameter, which are enclosed in a gelati- nous membrane (aril). There are about 8,000 seeds to a pound. In flower and fruit probably, through the year. The whitish or pale yellow wood is very soft,, very lightweight, and fleshy. There is a large, white pith, and the center of the trunk is hollow except at nodes. The wood is not used. Papaya is one of the most popular tropical! fruits. Races differ in size and shape of fruit. Like large melons, giant papayas may reach 18 inches in length and weigh as much as 20 pounds, while the fruits of wild plants often are small, sometimes only 3 inches long, and bitter flavored.! This esteemed melonlike fruit is served at then) breakfast table or as a dessert, often flavored with I juice of limes, but it is also made into preserves- and sherbets. The juice is also extracted andej canned. Green papayas can be cooked as a vege- table like squash. The milky latex or juice of the fruit, leaves, and other parts of the plant contains the enzymei' papain (papaina) which, like pepsin, digests pro-' teins and curdles milk. Thus, papayas when eater-i aid in digestion of other foods. Tough meat isi made tender bv wrapping it in papaya leaves foi" a few hours, by washing in water containing the juice, or by rubbing the juice on. Or the leave; can be boiled with the meat, but if the time is too long or the juice too concentrated, the meat maj fall apart in shreds. Though the tenderizing prop erty of papaya leaves has long been commom knowledge of tropical residents and known alsotc botanists, only in recent years have meat tenderiz ers prepared from this plant become available commercially. Other applications of this enzyme are medici nally to aid digestion in cases of dyspepsia and foi clarifying beer. In some areas the seeds, juice flowers, and leaves have served in home remedies Also the leaves have been stewed as greens. The male flowers may be a source of honey. It is re ported that the leaves have been employed in place of soap for washing delicate fabrics. Childrei make flutes from the hollow petioles. Many races vary in size and quality of fruit The plants are also attractive ornamental? Through the tropics they grow almost as weeds bearing fruit the first year from seed and spread ing along roadsides and in waste places. Plant ; are being heavily affected by diseases, especially viruses. Widely cultivated, escaping, and naturalized h Puerto Rico. Also on Mona, Vieques, St. Croix St. Thomas, St. John, and Tortola. Range. — Native in tropical America, the origi 374 Lechosa, papaya 687-921 0—64 25 Two-thirds natural size. Carica papaya L. 375 nal home unknown. Widely cultivated and nat- uralized in southern Florida, Bermuda, through- out West Indies, from Mexico to Argentina and Brazil, and in the Old World tropics. Other common names. — papay, pawpaw (Vir- gin Islands) ; papaya (Spanish) ; fruta bomba (Cuba) ; melon zapote (Mexico) ; papayo calen tano (Colombia) ; lechosa, papaya (Venezuela) papayo, mamon (Argentina); papaya, pawpaw papaw (United States, English) ; papaye, papa yer (French); papaya, papao, papay (Dutcl West Indies) ; mamao, mamoeiro (Brazil) . CACTUS FAMILY (CACTACEAE) Key to the 2 species illustrated (Nos. 175-176) A. Branches columnar, with 7-11 ridges and grooves; fruits round, spineless — 175. Cephalocereus royenii. AA. Branches flat, oblong joints or pads; fruits pear-shaped, mostly spiny — 176. Opuntia rubescens. 175. Sebucan, dildo This tree cactus of dry areas is easily recognized by: (1) stout erect gray-green columnar branches 2V2-4 inches in diameter with 7-11 ribs, or ridges, and grooves between the branches and trunk, not woody but soft and succulent; (2) absence of leaves, but with many clusters of several spreading needlelike yellow to gray spines %-2V4 inches in length along the ribs; (3) greenish, whitish or purplish-tinged, flowers 2 inches or more in length, tubular and fleshy with many sepals and petals, borne singly and stalkless along ribs near apex; and (4) rounded but much flattened edible red berry up to 1 inch high and 2 inches in diameter, the surface smooth and spineless. A branched cactus 6-20 feet tall with trunk 4-12 inches in diameter, commonly dividing at 1-2 feet above the base into several branches. As twigs and leaves are absent, there is no definite crown as in other trees. The trunk is reddish brown, smoothish except for rows of spines radiating in clusters and with very thin bark. The surface of the smooth grooves in the branches is covered with a bloom at least when young. The spines are in clusters, several radiating out from the central point of attachment (areole), which also bears inconspicuous whitish hairs. Near the rounded apex of branches the ribs bear tufts of longer white hairs about 1% inches in length, which are woolly and somewhat shaggy. The tubular fleshy flowers extend straight and nearly horizontal, opening at night. The flower has an inferior, smoothish, spineless rounded ovary about V2 incft long, 1-celled; a funnelform greenish fleshy tube (hypanthium) with many overlapping oblong, rounded or pointed, whitish or purplish-tinged, fleshy sepals about % inch long and with about 10 whitish narrow pointed petals %-V£ inch long within ; very many white stamens V4-V2 inch long attached at the throat and base of the tube; and protruding white fleshy style almost 2 inches long with many narrow stigma lobes. 376 Cephalocereus royenii (L.) Britton & Ro»> The ovary develops into the fruit, while the re maining flower parts shrivel and dry, remainii attached. The flattened berry contains red jui flesh slightly sweet and edible and many sms shiny black seeds less than x/16 inch long. Probabh flowering irregularly through the year. The trunk is composed mostly of soft water storing tissues, light green near the surface ami, yellowish within, juicy and slightly salty in tasted i The soft wood is a light brown fibrous cylinder with large white rays. The tree cactus is remarkably well adapted to ■ very dry conditions. The root system is broad ant: near the surface where water from light rains car; be absorbed rapidly. The bulk of the plant i made up of water storage tissue, which retain 19 water absorbed after rains for use over long dr If periods. The surface area is greatly reduce! |l through absence of leaves, and loss of water to th 1 air (transpiration) is correspondingly checked The branches have a very thick skin which als retards evaporation and, being green, at the sam time carry on the processes of food manufactur (photosynthesis), normally functions of the gree) leaves. Further, the formidable spines protec the juicy stems from animal life. Scattered in dry forest on plains and hills a lower elevations in southern and southwester; Puerto Rico and rare at Cape San Juan in the dr extreme northeastern corner. Also on Mons Desecheo, Icacos, Culebra, and Vieques. Throug! Virgin Islands on St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. Johi Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and probabl, smaller islands. Public forest. — Guanica. Range. — Mona, Puerto Rico and smaller adja cent islands, Virgin Islands, and St. Kitts ani Antigua in northern Lesser Antilles. Other common names. — pipe-organ cactus cactus (Virgin Islands). Botanical synonyms. — Cereus royenii (L. Mill., Pilocereus royenii (L.) Riimpl. r- j , u , Cephalocereus royenii (L.) Britton & Row End of branch with flower and fruit (upper right), two-thirds natural size. 377 CACTUS FAMILY (CACTACEAE) 176. Tuna de petate, pricklypear Distinguishing characters of this large treelike cactus are: (1) numerous spines, 1-6 together spreading in a cluster with a tuft of needlelike hairs at base, or spines sometimes absent; (2) erect rounded fleshy spiny trunk with bark pa- pery or scaly, bearing as branches flat, oblong to obovate, dull gray-green to dark green or red- dish-green joints or pads, 6-16 inches long, spiny and fleshy; (3) essentially leafless, the leaves be- ing minute green fleshy scales located singly at base of clusters of spines; (4) orange, red, or yellow flowers % inch across the many petals, borne on an oblong tubercled spiny green ovary l!4-2 inches long; and (5) red fleshy fruit a pear- shaped or rounded berry 2-3 inches long, spiny or spineless.