FILBERT AND ^*UT. 185 



The varieties of the filbert are as follow, viz, 



1. Red Filbert, — So called from the kernel being 

 covered with a red film, and from the leaves being of 

 a reddish green, especially when fading. The qua- 

 lity of the kernel is superior to that of any other ; 

 and though not so good a bearer as the white variety, 

 yet, if planted in light hazelly loam, not too much 

 enriched with dung, it will be found productive of 

 good crops. 



2. White Filbert, — Is nearly equal to the red in 

 flavour, and much superior in prolificacy. In favour- 

 able seasons this variety has been known to yield 

 above twenty hundred weight per acre ; though an 

 average crop is calculated to be about half that quan- 

 tity. 



The soil in which this sort thrives so well about 

 Maidstone, is rather a strong hazel loam on a dry 

 gravelly subsoil. Dung is seldom applied ; as it is 

 found to cause the trees to grow too luxuriantly, and 

 checks their fruitfulness. 



3. Frizzled Filbert. — So called from its small in- 

 dented leaves round the nut. It is a prolific bearer ; 

 but not distinguished for any superiority of fla- 

 vour, &c. 



4. Large Cob or Barcelona Nut, — This was first 

 introduced into English gardens, by the celebrated 

 John Ray, author of the History of Plants," 1065. 

 Previous to that time they used to be imported from 

 Spain under the name of Barcelona, a far better title 

 than that of cob. 



In Swinburn's Travels in Spain," we are in- 



