.. I 



597. -ALBIZZIA LBBBBK, Berth. 



HIS tree, though so common in the [sland of Jamaica, is 

 one which does not thrive under cultivation in Trinidad; 



for even with the greatest care it can hardly be kept 

 alive. 



This tact is strong evidence that there exists a decided difference 

 in climate between the two Islands. 



That the difference is not one of temperature merely, La shown by 

 the fact that the mean annual and daily readings at the two places 

 differ but slightly ; the mean annual, by half a degree only, at similar 

 elevations. 



From observations during a series of years it would appear that 

 the Failure of Albizzia Lebbek in Trinidad, is due probably to the 

 greater humidity which exists in the latter place, and possibly to a 

 deficiency of calcareous matter in the soil. The Saman— Pithecolo- 

 bium Saman, Benth., is a tree which flourishes in Jamaica side by side 

 with the Albizzia, and does ecpially well, if not better in Trinidad. 



We have here, therefore, a case which is interesting as to the why 

 and wherefore, of the different growth shown by two Leguminous 

 trees of similar habit and nearly related botanically to each other. 

 In Trinidad and also Jamaica there is strong evidence that the 

 " Saman," (" Guango" of Jamaica) is an imported tree, while the 

 Albizzia is indigenous to Jamaica but imported to Trinidad. 



The Albizzia is known as " Woman's tongue " in Jamaica, 

 so called it is said on account of the noise made by the chartaceous 

 legumes when shaken by the wind. That is to say, it is a direct libel 

 on the ladies, for the pods are always making a noise. 



598.-YAMS : ^ERIAL TUBERS. 



The usual method of planting yams in the West Indies is by 

 large cuttings of the tubers called " Yam Heads." This part is the 

 upper hard unedible portion of the tubers which is practically useless for 

 the table. It is difficult, however, with some varieties to get enough 

 for planting increased areas. 



Most varieties of the White Yam, or, Dioscorea alata, var., pro- 

 duce aerial tubers, and these we find may be successfully used for 

 producing crops. They do not give so large a return per plant as 

 when grown from -i yam heads." but are especially useful for extend- 

 ing cultivation and give a return of good useful tubers fit for 

 the table. 



There is another advantage in using the aerial tubers which is not 

 to be overlooked ; and this lies in the fact that they produce clean 

 healthy tubers, but when '"yarn heads" are used, any disease they may 

 have is almost sure to be communicated to successive crops. 



Yellow and Negro Yam heads are offered in Jamaica by the 

 Agricultural Society at 9/- per cwt. for planting ; White Yam at 11/- 

 per cwt. 



Address : Secretary, 4, Port Royal Street, Kingston, Jamaica. 



