LIBOCEDRUS CHILENSIS. 



267 



Libocedrus chilensis. — A medium- sized tree of from 50 to 60 

 feet high, of pyramidal form, sometimes branched from the base, 

 but often with the lower part of the trunk denuded of branches, 

 and with a conical top.* In England, the young trees are symmetrical 

 and well distinguished by their bright glaucous green foliage, and 

 by the silvery line on the under side of the small pointed leaves. 



Habitat. — Southern Chili, common on the slopes of the lower Cor- 

 dilleras of the Andes, from latitude 34° S. to Valdivia. 



Introduced in 1847 by Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., of Clapton.f 



As a timber tree Libocedrus chilensis is much valued in its native 

 country ; its wood is soft and easy to work, but the planks are only 

 used for indoor carpentry. J As an- ornamental tree in this country it 

 is one of the most beautiful and distinct ; but it is not very hardy, 

 and even when planted in a sheltered situation, rarely escapes injury 

 in severe weather. 



Libocedrus decurrens. — A noble tree of large dimensions, attain- 



* Arbol bastante alta . . . desnudo en la basse, con los ramos tanto mas cortos que 

 se acerean mas de la parte superior, lo que la da una forma piramidal. — Claudio Gay, 

 Historic:, de Chili, v., p. 406. 



t Gardeners' Chronicle, 1850, p. 439. 



% Su madera es dooil y soave para trabajar, pero solo se hace con ella cuartones que 

 s j r ven para trabajo interior de las casas. — C.' Gay, Idem, p. 407. 



