530 EDIBLE PRODUCTS 



of obtaining and preparing the sago varies, however, to some 

 extent i;i different localities. A single tree is said to yield from 

 800 Ib. to 1,400 Ib. of the finished article. England alone imports 

 sago (chiefly from Singapore and Sumatra) to the extent of about 

 4,000 ton ; annually. The Sago palm was introduced at Peradeniya 

 in 1880 an.! has flourished here since, being grown in a moist situa- 

 tion with loose deep soil. Here the trees flower freely and set 



Cycas circinalis. SAGO PLANT OF CEYLON 



fruit, but have not as yet produced fertile seeds. Several varieties 

 are recognised, these being either thorny or smooth-stemmed ; the 

 latter quality indicates the best and most prolific trees. 



Sago Plant of Ceylon; Madu, S. (Cycas circinalis. Cycadeae). 

 A palm-like plant, 12-15 ft. high, with very handsome, long, feathery 

 leaves ; the large farinaceous seeds are commonly made into a 

 useful sago by the Natives. 



