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23. Celtis occidentalis, of Linnceus. — Hackherry. 



This tree belongs to the South, and occurs so rarely in Wis- 

 consin as to bo but seldom noticed. I liave found it, however, 

 at Milwaukee, on Rock river, and at Fond du Lac ; always on 

 low bottom lands along the margin of the streams. In general 

 appearance it much resembles the Elm, and is often, doubtless, 

 mistaken for that tree by casual observers. The least examina- 

 tion, however, will show marked differences — especially in the 

 fruit, which is a drupe or berry, that may be eaten. There is 

 some confusion in regard to the different species of Celtis grow- 

 ing in this country ; but Inhere are probably five species. A 

 farther examination and comparison of specimens is needed to 

 clear up the difficulties. 



There is a species in Europe, said to be very useful, the wood 

 being only surpassed by the ebonj^ and box in durability, 

 strength and beauty. But the American kinds do not appear to 

 possess those desirable qualities. Very little, however, is cer- 

 tainly known in regard to the v^alue of the Hackberry of this 

 country. Its scarcity may be the only reason why it is not ap- 

 plied to many useful purposes, for which, upon trial, it might be 

 found well adapted. It is said to grow rapidly; to form a 

 handsome tree : and that it might be used as a shade tree, in 

 many situations where variety is desirable. 



The figure shows the leaf and berry, both of the full size of 

 nature. 



Order VII. Plataxace.e. — The Plane Tree Family. 

 24. Plaianus occidenialis, of Linn ecus. — Sycamore — Button-Wood. 



At the east, this tree, with its white bark and broad leaves, is 

 called Button-wood, while at the west it is almost universally 

 known as the Sycamore. Its proper name, however, is the 

 American or Western Plane Tree. 



In Europe, a species of Maple is called Sycamore, and the use 

 of the same name here for a very different tree, is apt to lead to 

 confusion. The south part of Wisconsin is the extreme north- 



