JG8 



G. P. ir. CoUectio,,. Plate LXXXII 



Acglc Marmdos. 



BHEL OR BAEL FRUIT. 



This small spinose tree is a native of tropical Asia, and al- 

 though not commonly grown in Hawaii, specimens may be found 

 in several gardens. It has alternate trifoliolate leaves, and its 

 flowers, which grow in clusters, are small and fragrant. The 

 gourd-like fruit, with its hard shell, is from 2 to 4 inches in 

 diameter, and is either round or pear-shaped, and although heavy 

 and solid, it will float in water. The rind, when ripe, is a yellow- 

 ish-brown color, and is studded with oil cells. The interior sui- 

 face of the skin is lined with open-mouthed cells, which pour 

 their gummy secretions into the interior of the carpel, filling it 

 and bathing the seed. The pulp is sweet and aromatic, and is 

 esteemed for making conserves, and also as a cooling drink. 



In India, the roots and leaves are used medicinally. Bael gum 

 is a sticky, astringent substance soluble in water. The fruit con- 

 tains several large, flat, woolly seeds, which germinate readily, 

 and the plant is also very easily propagated from root cuttings. 



