Inventory 39, Seeds and Plants Innported. 



Plate I. 



The " Fire-Pot " Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L. f.), S. P. I. No. 37657. 



A very small variety of persimmon of dark reddish color, resembling an Intermediate form 

 between a Persian date and a plum. Locally called Huo kuan shih tzii,, meaning " fire-pot " 

 persimmon. The fruits can be kept fresh almost throughout the entire winter, but the Chi- 

 nese also eat them slightly fermented by keeping them in water for a few weeks and pouring 

 oS the water every few days. Their flavor reminds one of beer, and travelers relish them 

 decidedly. (Photographed at Paihsiangchen, Shansi, China, by Frank N. Meyer, February 

 14, 1914; natural size; P13044FS.) 



