FOREST TREES, 85 
of nuts, and in some seasons are produced abundantly, 
but they are so small that they are only collected in 
small quantities by children. In some parts of 
Europe, where they abound, they are largely gathered 
for the manufacture of oil. 
The Beech cannot be recommended as one of the 
most profitable trees for forest culture, nevertheless, 
itis worthy the attention of those who may plant 
upon a large scale. It is a beautiful tree, and several 
varieties are cultivated for ornament. For propaga- 
tion, the seed is treated like that of the Chestnut. 
FRAXINUS—ASH. 
Natural Order, Oleacee. 
Flowers, polygamous or diecious; calyx, four-cleft, 
or none; petals, four, wanting in American species ; 
stamens, two, sometimes three or fous’; anthers, large ; 
style, single; stigma, two-cleft; fruit, a one or two- 
celled samara or key, flattened, winged at the apex; 
one or two-seeded. 
Among the timber trees of the United States, the 
Ashes occupy a position of primary importance, No 
other tree, except the Oak, is applied to such varied 
and important uses. It combines lightness, strength, 
and elasticity in so high a degree, that no other tree 
could be found fully to supply its place. Most of the 
different species of Ash greatly resemble each other 
in the quality of their wood, but the White and 
Blue are undoubtedly the best and most profitable 
for cultivation. Ash timber is extensively employed 
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