76 THE BOOK OF EVERGREENS. 



recent discoveries in Mexico by Roezel have added several 

 to the already large list, and although none of these can 

 in all probability be acclimated in the Northern States, 

 very many of them will form highly ornamental trees for 

 more congenial climates, particularly in portions of Eng- 

 land and France. 



The derivation of the name of this genus is involved in 

 uncertainty ; some writers asserting it is derived from the 

 Greek pinos, signifying a Pine tree, whilst others contend 

 it came from the Celtic pen, a mountain, the natural hab- 

 itat of the family. The Greek pion, meaning fat, in allu- 

 sion to the resinous oily matter produced, is also a deriva- 

 tion mentioned by some authors. The first is probably 

 correct. 



The different members of the genus are found all over 

 the world, and in point of usefulness are unsurpassed by 

 any other belonging to the order. 



The resinous secretions contained in the wood render it 

 invaluable for fuel, especially where an intense heat is 

 required. Vast quantities of Pitch Pine, (P. rigida,) and 

 Red Pine, (P. resinosa,) are yearly consumed in this 

 manner. 



The wood of the Yellow Pine, (P. mitis,) Long-leav- 

 ed, or Yellow Pine of the South, (P. australis,) and 

 White Pine, (P. tStrobus.) is exceedingly valuable, and 

 forms the most important lumber in the markets of this 

 country ; whilst that manufactured from the Scotch Pine, 

 (P. sylvestris?) is celebrated throughout Europe. The 

 important commercial products, such as tar, turpentine, 

 rosin, etc., are principally obtained from the P. australis, 

 and other kindred species. 



For ornamental purposes, many of the Pines are unsur- 

 passed for beauty, and form magnificent conical trees that 

 create an effect peculiar to themselves. The newer intro- 

 ductions from Northern California and Oregon are perfect 

 specimens of elegance, and as many of them have proven 



