156 
eoagulating on exposure to the air, these kinds have never been utilised 
for commercial purposes. . 
. At the same range of altitude at which the Colombia Virgen grows, 
two very distinct species of the same genus abound. The latter are 
easily distinguished by the rubber collectors (coucheros) by the size of 
the fallen foliage, as well as by the size, colour, and texture of the trunk. 
The foliage, fruits, and seeds are small as compared with the rubber 
producer. These species are found at altitudes ranging from 5,500 to 
about 8,000 feet above the level of the sea. 
r 
elevations at which the Colombia Virgen grows (5,500 feet), another 
distinet species occurs at an altitude of about 3,500 feet. This species 
so, indeed, that at first sight it is easily mistaken for the other. All 
the les are characterised by the two glands at the base ot the 
[uS 
obtained for the typical article. 
uring the past fortnight I have been making inquiries at museums, 
&e. in London with the view of ascertaining whether à sample of the 
treatment, | 
I herewith forward some 3,000 seeds of the Virgen species. These 
seeds were collected fully a year ago, but I have succeeded in the 
germination of seeds four years old. 
„raving resided during seven years on the spot, between 3° and 4? 
si latitude, where these rubber trees grow, I am well acquainted with 
the conditions of soil, humidity, and temperature requisite for the 
successful cultivation of the plant. For further information on this point 
beg to refer you to my letter dated 3rd MCN 
of State forc Talik: y ated the 23rd July 1888 to the Secretary 
In conclusion, I may mention that in India the best localities for this 
cultivation would be obtainable at points between 20? and 26° latitude, 
and at elevations of from 2,500 to 5,000 feet above the sea. Of course, 
in more southern latitudes higher elevations would have to be selected. 
ave, &e. — 
(Signed) Rosert THOMSON. 
.. W, T. Thiselton Dyer, Esq., C.M.G., F.R.S., 
Director, Royal Gardens, Kew 
