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CHAPTER X. 



FORACE LECUMINOS/E. 



A nlt:\iber of plants, which we have ah-eady discussed 

 from a special point of view, deserve our attention from the 

 point of vieA\- of their value as fodders. 



The family of the Leguminosa? includes certain trees and 

 shrubs of which the leaves form an excellent fodder, and 

 which are therefore useful for pasturage, e.g., the acacias. 



We mention herewith not only those whose composition 

 and alimentary value we have studied, but in addition a 

 number of others which have been recorded as being of some 

 economic use. 



The wood of these plants is often used for fuel, and as 

 their ash mav be profitably employed on the fields, we have 

 given the mineral composition of the Mauritian species. 



PAPiLIONACE/E. 



Astragalus (Undershrub). — There are a number of species of Astra- 

 galus, some used in agriculture and others for artistic and industrial 

 purposes. 



The species Astragalus arenarius, from Western Asia, is a perennial 

 forage plant occurring in sandy soils. 



Astragalus Cicer is a green forage well liked by cattle. 



Astragalus glycyphyllos and A. Jiyfoglottis are excellent forages 

 best suited by somewhat calcareous soils. 



In the United States Astragalus hy-poglottis, A. caryocarfus, A. 

 canadensis, A. aisurgens are included among the useful forage plants. 



Cajanus indicus (Shrub). — The pods and leaves of this plant are 

 relished by live stock. The analysis of the pods has already been 

 '^ given ; the composition of the leave? and branchlets is as follows : — 



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