-J) 



Blue Fig. 



(Elceocarpus grandis, F.v.M.) 



The vernacular name has been unfortunately chosen, as the tree has no connection with 

 the true figs (Ficus\ as shown by the systematic name, the timber of figs being notoriously 

 worthless. In this instance we have a splendid pale coloured, light timber, which shows a sheen 

 on planing. It is open in the grain, dresses well, takes a good polish, is much used in 

 the trade, and can by different stains made to imitate various other timbers. It is used for 

 almost any kind of cabinet and joinery work, also interior fittings of carriages, ships' cabins, &c. 

 The pale yellow colour would look well in contrast with any of our dark Acacia timbers. 



Description of the Tree. An average tree of the coast brushes, attaining a height 

 of 100 feet or more, and a corresponding diameter, having a smooth, yellowish tinted 

 bark, and glabrous in all its parts. Leaves oblong or lanceolate, up to 6 inches long, 

 petiole slightly winged, obtuse or acuminate, shining above, domatia often present, 

 crenulate. Flowers large, in short axillary racemes, sepals about J inch long, including 

 the subulate points. Petals of equal length having about five fringed lobes, silky 

 pubescent on the margin towards the base. Anthers pointed. Fruit a drupe, globular, 

 i inch in diameter, of a bluish colour. Inner portion or putamen very hard and 

 wrinkled. 



NOTE. It is from the form of fruit that the tree has received its common name. 



Geographical Range. Coast district of Queensland, from Pine River to Northern 

 New South Wales. 



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