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PREPARATION. 



Splints. — Petiole splints are prepared from the petioles 

 in the same way as other palms, but they are entirely un- 

 suited for spokes, being too brittle. The middle-aged 

 petioles may be utilized for weavers. The colors are not 

 satisfactory. 



USES. 



Leaves. — The leaves of the nipa palm form one of the 

 most common roof thatches in the Philippines. In the 

 poorer type of houses they are also employed for the sides. 

 They are used, too, for hats and raincoats, and can be 

 woven into rough mats. 



Midribs. — The midribs, when stripped from the leaflets, 

 are used in making cheap brooms." They are also employed 

 for certain types of trays and baskets. 



