THE WOODS OF NEW BRUNSWICK. 25 
to grow together, form solid and elegant hedges, but have the dis- 
advantage of checking the growth of other plants near or under 
them. 
3, THE SPANISH CHESTNUT (Castanea vesca, L.). 
This tree, so highly prized in somewhat more southern latitudes 
alike as an ornament and for its abundant and agreeable fruit, can 
hardly be said in fairness to have a place among the indigenous 
trees of New Brunswick. None are found in a wild state ; and 
though a few have been introduced from time to time, they do 
not appear to thrive, and are rarely seen. 
4. THE HORNBEAM (Carpinus Americana, Michaux). 
This tree, though by no means an abundant one, is occasionally 
seen in the New Brunswick woods, especially in the central and 
southern counties, along the banks of streams, and on the sides of 
ridges. It is found in considerable quantity in the vicinity of 
Salmon river in the county of Victoria, and in other places on the 
lands of the New Brunswick Land and Lumber Company. 
When conveniently attainable, it is used by lumbermen in the 
manufacture of axe-handles; and for other purposes requiring 
great strength, it is considered to be the strongest of the northern 
woods. When well seasoned it makes excellent fishing rods, being 
very strong, light, and elastic. 
5, THE AMERICAN HOP HORNBEAM (Ostrya Virginica, Willd.). 
This tree, readily distinguished from the preceding by the hop- 
like fruit from which its name is derived, is, like the latter, com- 
paratively rare in New Brunswick, though apparently distributed 
over its entire area. It is generaily found in rich woods, attain- 
ing a height of 20 to 30 feet. Like the preceding species, with 
which it shares the name of “ Ironwood,” it is remarkable for tough- 
ness and compactness, adapting it for the manufacture of levers 
and similar uses, whence it is also often called ‘‘ Lever Wood.” It 
is also employed for the cogs of mill-wheels and for agricultural 
implements. 
Tue Bircn Faminy (Betulacee). 
This family embraces in New Brunswick five species of true 
Birch, and two of Alder. 
