30 



G. P. W. Collection PlATE XIII. 



Eugenia hrasiliensis. 



BRAZILIAN PLUM, OR SPANISH CHERRY. 



This evergreen shrub, or low-growing tree, which in many 

 countries is said to reach a height of but 6 feet, in Hawaii attains 

 a height of 20 feet ; and aUhough it thrives in comparatively high 

 altitudes, it bears best below the 200-foot elevation, and requires 

 considerable moisture. The bluntish, dark, shiny leaves, which 

 are scale-like along the branches, are obovate, oblong, and about 3 

 inches in length. The blossoming season varies according to the 

 location, however, the tree generally has flowers and fruit from 

 July until December. The fruit is the size of a cherry, is deep 

 purple in color, and the persistent calyx is very prominent. The 

 sweet pulp has a very agreeable flavor. 



Probably the first plants of this variety were brought here by 

 Don Marin, about a century ago. Some fine trees may be found 

 in Pauoa and Makiki valleys, and also in Nuuanu, in the garden 

 which formerly belonged to Dr. Hillebrand. 



