c 256 EXTRACTS FROM 



or virtues. On tapping the tree, a thick milky astringent 

 liquor runs out. 



30. Vitis cauibbjea, Dec. — The Water- Wythe or Wild Grape. 



The trunk of this vine is of a whitish colour, and often as 

 thick as a man's thigh ; it runs up to the top of the tallest 

 trees, and sends off but few branches. The leaves are broad, 

 of a light green on the upper side, but white underneath. 

 The blossoms are like those of the common grape. The 

 berries are larger, and contain an austere rough juice. How 

 far culture would improve them, can only be determined by 

 experience ; but it is certain that the wild grapes that run on 

 fences, and, consequently, have the fruit exposed more to the 

 sun, are much sweeter than those that are shaded. It is 

 therefore probable, that, if this were planted and supported 

 as the common grape, and the leaves pulled off, as soon as 

 the berries are half grown, so that the rays of the sun 

 might have their full force, this native grape might !:e great- 

 ly improved in size and flavour. By proper management 

 and with little expence, a generous rough wine might be made 

 from it, for the consumption of the colony, and it might even 

 be added to our articles of exportation. 



From the vast variety of climbing plants here, nature seems 

 to have intended this country as a nursery for the vine ; 

 what we planted came to great perfection. But we are so 

 engaged with other known staple commodities, that we can 

 think of no new improvement in any thing else. 



About three feet of the thick fresh trunk will yield a pint 

 of wholesome water in the driest seasons. It is thus well 

 known to our thirsty hog hunters, or parties in quest of rebel- 

 lious Negroes. 



