CHAP, xi S Y L V A 115 



CHAPTER XI. 



Of the Maple. 



i. The maple \acer minus~\ (of which authors (see 

 Salmasius upon So/inus, c. 33.) reckon very many 

 kinds) was of old held in equal estimation almost with 

 the citron ; especially the bruscum^ the French-maple 

 and the pcTvonaceus^ peacocks-tail maple, which is that 

 sort so elegantly undulated, and crisped into variety 

 of curies, as emulates the famous citria. It were a 

 most laudable attempt, if some would enquire out, 

 and try the planting of such sorts as are not indigenes 

 amongst us ; such as is especially the German Aier, 

 and that of Virginia, not yet cultivated here, but an 

 excellent tree : And if this were extended to other 

 timber, and exotic trees likewise, it would prove of 

 extraordinary benefit and ornament to the publick, 

 and were worthy even of the royal care. They are 

 all produced of seeds contain 'd in the folliacles and 

 keys, or birds-tongues (as they are call'd) like the ash, 

 (after a year's interrment) and like to it, affect a sound, 

 and a dry mould ; growing both in woods and hedge- 

 rows, especially in the latter ; which if rather hilly 

 than low, affords the fairest timber. It is also propa- 

 gated by layers and suckers. By shredding up the 

 boughs to a head, I have caused it to shoot to a 

 wonderful height in a little time ; but if you will lop 

 it for the fire, let it be done in January ; and indeed 

 it is observ'd to be of noxious influence to the subnas- 

 cent plants of other kinds, by reason of a clammy dew 

 which it sheds upon them, and therefore they would 



