54 



The bark is much used, alone or in combination, by all the tanners of Mexico. With 

 ordinary care the guaymochle bark makes a beautiful, strong, white, elastic tan, not 

 as strong as that of the oak, but one of the safest and best tanning materials. A 

 yellow dye is prepared from the bark. The fruit of the tree is much sought after as 

 food. It is very prolific and the white manna-like substance which adheres to the 

 black seed is a favorite food with all classes, especially with those who have con- 

 sumption, who eat it with the strong conviction of obtaining relief. In Colima it is 

 so abundant that it is sold for 1 cent a kilo. In Acapulco there is an ample sup- 

 ply of this fruit, and in spite of all the tropical fruits on the market it is a great 

 favorite. It is surprising the quantity of fruit a tree, growing in a desert region 

 with not more than 2 inches of rain a year, will produce, and it grows from the 

 Tropics to the region where there is an inch of ice. It has as wide a distribution as 

 any tree known, because of its adaptability to the wants of man." — Dr. E. Palmer. 



This useful and ornamental tree should receive a thorough trial in the warmer 

 parts of the country from Florida to California. 



658. Byrsonima crassifolia. 



From Colima, Mexico. Received through Dr. Edward Palmer. Collected July, 

 1897. "Nance." 



"A large shrub or small tree 15 feet or so high and 3 to 8 inches in diameter. The 

 flowers are yellow, but become bronze or an amber color when older. This shrub is 

 found growing in the mountains. The fruit, yellow in color, is eaten with salt raw. 

 It has an overacid pulque taste or that of overripe cheese. It is used in soups and 

 in stuffing meats. It is found for sale in the market at Acapulco and Colima for 

 about three months." 



659. Ceratonia siliqua. St. John's bread. 



From Mexico. Collected by Dr. Edward Palmer, October, 1897. (8 packages.) 



" Cultivated at San Jose de Guaymas by Mr. A. Parode, who obtained the seed from 

 Africa. The tree thrives well. It has a large top suitable for shade and produces 

 an abundance of fruit, which is fed to all kinds of domestic animals, all relishing 

 it. There is quite a demand for it among the settlements along the Jacqua River 

 as well as in the uplands of Sonora." 



660. Tabebuia donnell-smithii. White mahogany. 



From Colima, Mexico. Collected by Dr. Edward Palmer, July, 1897. (49 pack- 

 ages.) 



"The trees about Colima are from 40 to 50 feet high and about 12 to 15 inches in 

 diameter. It is common in the mountains about Colima and is much cultivated as 

 an ornamental tree, it being very beautiful when in full bloom with its copious sup- 

 ply of golden-yellow flowers. From the large trees excellent lumber is obtained. 

 It can only be used when thoroughly dry. Drawers made of it will not open in 

 rainy weather, and the wood decays quickly with dampness. It is used much for 

 the interior of houses and railroad carriages. 



"It endures a long rainless season, and is easily propagated by seed. It should be 

 tried in the practically frostless parts of the arid. Southwest." — Dr. E. Palmer. 



661. 



From Mexico. Collected by Dr. Edward Palmer, August, 1897. "Candelilla." 



This is ornamental and grows from a large bush to a small tree 8 to 10 feet high. 

 The profusion of yellow fruit gives the tree a very showj^ appearance. The fruit is 

 eaten by the birds. 



662. 



From Mexico. Collected by Dr. Edward Palmer (No. 34). 



663. Orescentia alata. Calabash tree. 



From Mexico. Collected bv Dr. Edward Palmer. 



