SILK GROWER'S MANUAL. 201 



The arrindy silkworm is another species entirely 

 different from any other described or known, and is 

 called arrindy from the name of the plant, the palma 

 christi, on which the insect feeds. It is peculiar to 

 the districts of Dinapore and Rangpore, in the interior 

 of Bengal, where it is reared by the natives in a domestic 

 state, as they do other silkworms. The palma christi 

 is largely cultivated in India, as it is also in many parts 

 of France, and some other countries, for the abundant 

 produce of oil which is obtained from its seeds, known 

 in commerce as the castor oil. This plant is therefore 

 cultivated for the double use of seeds, and also of its 

 leaves. 



The cocoons it produces are remarkably soft and 

 white, or yellowish ; and the filament is so exceedingly 

 delicate, that it cannot be wound, as are other cocoons, 

 but must be spun like cotton. The cloth woven of this 

 substance, is white, coarse, and of a seemingly loose 

 texture, but of incredible durability ; it is used for the 

 clothing of both men and women, and will wear con- 

 stantly for fifteen or twenty years. Hot water dis- 

 solves its texture, causing it to tear; it is therefore 

 washed only in cold water. 



The palma christi, or castor bean plant, flourishes 

 most luxuriantly in California ; and, under our fine 

 climate, that variety would certainly do well here. 



The wild silkworm of India is a species which can- 

 not be domesticated. They are so abundant in many 

 parts of Bengal, and the provinces adjoining, as to have 

 afforded the natives of those countries, and particularly 



