THE PINE SUB-FAMILY. 77 



hardy in this latitude, we may derive great pleasure from 

 their introduction. 



In our division of this genus into sections or sub-genera, 

 we follow the excellent plan pursued by Loudon, and 

 adopted by Gordon. 



SECT. I. BITVJE. Two LEAVES IN A SHEATH 



It P. Austriaca, Hoess. AUSTRIAN PIXE. Syn. P. 

 Laricio Austriaca, JEndlicher ; P. nigra, Link. Leaves, 

 long, rigid, slender, incurved, sharply mucronate ; rich, 

 dark green color, and from short sheaths. Cones, medium 

 size, (2^- to 3 inches long,) conical, slightly recurved and 

 light brown color. Scales, smooth and shining, with a 

 dull spine in the centre. 



According to Gordon, the Austrian Pine " is found on 

 the calcareous mountains in Lower Austria, Styria, Mora- 

 via, Corinthia, Transylvania, and in the neighborhood of 

 Mehadia in Banat." It forms a large, spreading tree, 

 about 120 feet in height, and produces strong timber, which 

 is extensively used in its native localities. 



This valuable tree, although of comparatively recent 

 origin, being unknown in Britain previous to the year 

 1835, has gradually worked its way into public favor, un- 

 til at the present time it ranks as one of the most popular 

 species, and one of the few well-known Pines that are ex- 

 tensively planted. The numerous, rough branches, are 

 placed regularly around the tree, and impart a massive ap- 

 pearance. The rather long, rigid, dark green leaves, are 

 remarkably beautiful when viewed from a distance ; but 

 on the other hand, a very close inspection reveals a coarse 

 and rather rough character, that should prevent its use 

 for planting in the near vicinity of the residence. 



The cones are very handsome, being regular in shape, 

 and of a rich brown color, which is heightened by a pecu- 

 liar glossiness on the surface. 



