160 



TROPICAL FRUITS 



in size, shape, flavour and quantity of pulp, according to variety. 

 The trees also vary in productiveness, some varieties being almost 

 barren. Selection and high cultivation should, therefore, be prac- 

 tised in order to obtain the best fruits. The tree is readily propa- 

 gated by seed if sown fresh. The large fleshy seed is of short 

 vitality, and germinates in seven to eight days (See illustration). 



Elaeocarpus edulis (Tiliaceae). A small ornamental tree, 

 native of New Guinea, producing bright red fruit, which is 3 to 5 



DURIAN FKUIT. Dltlio ZibcthillUS. 



sharp-angled, oval in shape, one-seeded, and nearly 2 inches long. 

 The outer scanty rind (pericarp) is of a sweetish-bitter taste, and may 

 be made into a savoury jelly or used for pickling. The tree is 

 worth growing for ornament on account of its graceful foliage and 

 handsome red fruits, but scarcely as a fruit tree. It thrives in 

 shady places with loose rich soil, up to about 2,000ft. Propagated 

 by seed, which take several weeks to germinate. 



E-serratus. Ceylon Olive ; " Veralu" 5.; " Verali-palam," T~ 

 A handsome medium-sized tree, indigenous to Ceylon, producing 



