HEDGES. 203 



generally consist of Opuntia Dillenii (Haw.), Agave Americana 

 (L.), Euphorbia tirucalli (L.), and E. antiquorvm (L.) It is a 

 curious fact, that the two first of these are not indigenous, but 

 have been introduced from America, and the third was probably 

 imported from Africa. Here and there we see other plants em- 

 ployed for the purpose, as Jatropha curcas and Adhatoda vasica, 

 which being thin-growing and unarmed shrubs, can scarcely be 

 said to make a fence. 



This important subject has engaged the attention of the Go- 

 vernment, as well as of railway and irrigation companies. It is 

 consequently one of increasing interest, affecting not only the 

 appearance of the country and private interests, but the expen- 

 diture of public bodies, and of the country at large. 



Extracts of correspondence bearing on this subject are annexed. 



Letter to Government. 



Madkas, 19<A September 1856. 



I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of E. M. C, 18th 

 July 1856, No. 1211, regarding the planting of trees and hedges 

 along the irrigation channels of this presidency. The subject is 

 of great importance, and there is no part of rural economy more 

 neglected in this country. It is one to which, some years ago, I 

 devoted much time and attention,* and, as a full consideration of 

 the various points involved would occupy considerable space, I 

 cannot do better than place my MSS. at the disposal of Govern- 

 ment, and limit myself at present to a few general and practical 

 remarks. 



The selection of trees and hedge plants for anything approach- 

 ing to extensive planting must depend on the soil and other 

 peculiarities of each locality. It is impossible for me at Madras 

 to predicate what will answer in every district, but the local 

 officers may safely be guided by observing what trees, &c, natu- 

 rally succeed best within their ranges. The Casuarina at Madras 

 is a valuable tree ; but it would be absurd to plant it extensively 

 in the red soil at Bellary. The Inga duhis forms a neat and 

 * Vide Ann. Nat. Hist., Oct. 1850. 



