CHAP, vi SYLVA 8 1 



CHAPTER VI. 



Of the Horn-beam. 



1 . Ostrys the horn-beam, (by some called the horse- 

 beech, from the resemblance of the leaf) in Latin 

 (ignorantly) the Carpinus^ is planted of sets ; though 

 it may likewise be rais'd from the jttlas and seeds, 

 which being mature in August, should be sown in 

 October, and will lie a year in the bed, which must 

 be well and carefully shaded so soon as they peep : 

 But the more expeditious way is by layers or sets, of 

 about an inch diameter, and cut within half a foot of 

 the earth : Thus it will advance to a considerable 

 tree. The places it chiefly desires to grow in are in 

 cold hills, stiff ground, and in the barren and most 

 expos'd parts of woods. We have it no where more 

 abounding in the south, than in the woods of Hart- 

 fordshire ; very few westward. 



2. Amongst other uses which it serves for, as 

 mill-cogs, &c. (for which it excels either yew or 

 crab) yoak-timber (whence of old, and for that it was 

 as well flexible as tough, 'twas call'd frryt'a) heads of 

 beetles, stocks and handles of tools : It is likewise for 

 the turners use excellent ; good fire-wood, where it 

 burns like a candle, and was of old so employ 'd ; 



Carpinus tedas fissa facesque dabit. 



(For all which purposes its extream toughness and 

 whiteness commends it to the husbandman.) Being 

 planted in small fosses or trenches, at half a foot 



