tree. At the present time, however, the Zapotec Indians in the 
Oaxaca valley do not associate the tree, Q. funebris with 
mourning the deceased or with death. Possibly the folk connec- 
tion of Q. funebris with the idea of life and death may be 
attributed to the fact that this vigorous tree is evergreen. It is 
not uncommon in primitive societies to associate trees which 
do not shed their leaves at one time with the concept of ever- 
lasting life. 
With increasing emphasis on natural, rather than synthetic 
flavorings, the long-neglected, highly aromatic flowers of Q. 
funebris may some day become more important in the world 
spice trade. 
Furthermore, the handsome, conical, evergreen tree, 
characterized by its symmetry and abundant foliage, might be 
of interest for planting in southern Florida, southern California 
and Hawaii — as an attractive, ornamental shade tree for 
parks, gardens and homes. Upon my return from Oaxaca in 
July 1977, seeds of Q. funebris were sent to the Fairchild 
Tropical Garden, Miami, Florida and to the Royal Botanic 
Gardens, Kew, England. These may represent the first intro- 
ductions of Q. funebris to the horticultural world. 
ACKNOWLEDGMENT 
I wish to express my appreciation to Miss Bodil Christensen 
of Oaxaca, Mexico, for her helpful orientation in locating Q. 
funebris trees in Huayapan; and to Dr. Richard Evans Schultes 
for his thoughtful editorial guidance. 
Illustrations: Plates 28, 29, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 and 40 by 
Lynn Rosengarten; plates 30 and 31 by Elmer W. Smith. 
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