at 



G. p. W. CoUection. PLATE XXX 



Durio cibcthiiius. 



DURION. 



This fine tree attains a height of from 60 to 80 feet; it derives 

 its name from the Malay word "dury," a tliorn, in reference to 

 the prickly covering of the fruit. The leaves, which are a light, 

 glossy green on the upper surface, are alternate, entire, elliptical 

 and acute. The yellowish-white flowers are large. The fruit, 

 which is either globular or oval, sometimes measures 10 inches 

 in length. It has a hard rind, covered with thorny warts or spines, 

 and externally looks not unlike a breadfruit. When ripe, it is 

 brownish-yellow, and, when opened at its lower end, shows five 

 longitudinal sections or cells, each containing from 1 to 4 seeds 

 about the size of a pigeon's egg. The edible pulp surrounding 

 the seeds is firm and cream-colored. The Durion is remarkable 

 for its combination of an absolutely delicious flavor and an abom- 

 inably oft"ensive odor. To my knowledge there is but one tree 

 in bearing in the Hawaiian Islands, and that is growing in private 

 grounds at Lihue, Kauai. 



