DESCRIPTION OF DRUPE FRUITS 



57 



the manner already explained in Chapter IV., 

 except that, as there noted, some form of 

 fruit calipers is a practical necessity in meas- 

 uring soft-fleshed peaches, nectarines, plums, 

 and cherries. 



The cavity is, in general, less important 

 and characteristic among the stone fruits 



Cordate Elliptical, unequal 



FIG. 17. DIFFERENT FORMS OF PLUMS 



than among the pome fruits, but it can by no 

 means be disregarded. As in the former case, 

 it is described as to its depth, width, form, 

 and markings. 



The stem is of more value in the descrip- 

 tion of plums and cherries than with other 

 fruits, and should accordingly be mentioned 

 with special care. Many describers habitually 

 give the exact length of the stem ; and in 



