512 



MIXOR PRODL'LTS OF CEYWX 



dried leaves (from which cocaine is obtained) are exported to the 

 extent of about 800 to 900 tons a year, chiefly to Germany and the 

 United States. The plant thrives best at elevations of 1,000 to 

 3,000 ft. in Ceylon, where small areas have been successfully estab- 

 lished, the dried leaves being regularly exported. The best condi- 

 tions for cultivation are a rainfall not under 70 inches, good friable 

 soil (preferably that of virgin forest), and land of a gentle slope. 

 Good natural drainage is important, and shade is essential until the 

 plants are well established, but not afterwards. The seed must be 

 sown fresh, preferably under cover and in baskets, the seedlings 



COCA, OR COCAINE PLANT ( EiytJlt'O.VVloU 



IN CEYLON. 



being afterwards planted out at distances of about 4 by 4 ft. apart. 

 In South America, a method sometimes adopted in the raising of 

 seedlings is to throw the seed when fresh in a heap, thus setting 

 up fermentation and inducing germination ; in other cases they are 

 sown in rows in situ, the ground being then covered with grass- 

 litter or leaves, the seedlings being afterwards thinned out as 

 desired. The first picking of leaves may be obtained at about 

 18 months from the time of planting, or at 2| years from seed. 

 Several pluckings are made in the year, the mature leaves only 



