412 EDIBLE WILD PLANTS 



more resinous, and darker in color than that of the white pine 

 Needles, 2 from the same sheath, 3 in. to 5 in. long, and in far 

 larger bunches than the preceding species. Cones pear-shaped, 

 with ends reversed. If in. to 2| in. long, with short spurs on 

 lower outside edge of each cone scale. Seeds enclosed at base 

 of scales, ^ in. long, sweetish, though resinous. Difficult to 

 gather. 



On dry barrens or sandy rocky soil. Abundant in western 

 half of province, rarely seen east of Halifax. Available until 

 May. 



6 If.. Acer, several species. Maple. 



Tree 15 ft. to 60 ft. high. Wood firm, white, durable when 

 dry. Bark black to grey with flaky outer bark. Leaves 

 deeply notched, with radiating ribs ; some species turning many 

 colored in autumn. One species, A. Pennsylvanicwiin, with 

 striped bark, has leaves 5 in. to 8 in. across, turning to a bright 

 yellow. Seeds winged, often in pairs, not always very palat- 

 able, are gathered by squirrels when beech and hazel nuts are 

 scarce ; are more digestible than pleasant tasting. Ripens in 

 October. 



In all but the wettest and poorest soils. Abundant every- 

 where where conditions are suitable. 



FUNGI. 



65. Againcus campestris L. Common Mushroom. 

 Appearance well-known. Description unnecessary. 



Never found m a forest except, perhaps, near an old lum- 

 bering camp. Abundant in long settled parts of the country. 



66. Lycoperdoi}. Puff Ball. 



1 in. to Ih in. thick, skin rough and dark grey, without I'oots. 

 White, dry, pithy or spongy inside, gradually turning black 

 after completing its growth, eartl,}^ or musky smell. Parboil 



