238 



The excellence of the Smyrna fig is known and universally acknowl- 

 edged. There are many varieties of superior quality, all of which outside of 

 Smyrna are called " Smyrna" figs. In Smyrna they are called "Turkey" 

 figs, probably from the fact that in past ages they may have come from some 

 parts of Turkey proper. In addition to these general appellations many 

 varieties have specific names, often indicating some distinguishing char- 

 acteristic or supposed excellence. Among these, and perhaps preeminent 

 to all in its good quality, is the "Elemi" fig. The term "Elemi" is the 

 same in Italian, Spanish, and English, and differs only in accent and pro- 

 nunciation in French. It is the name of a fragrant resinous substance 

 obtained from a family of trees found in Mexico, Brazil, Ethiopia, and other 

 tropical countries, and was once an article of commerce in the Levant. It 

 is of a pale yellow color, semi-transparent, and has a fragrance similar to 

 that of the fennel; it is used medicinally. The figs exhibited by Mr. Parker 

 were a pale yellow color, and were transparent when held between the eye 

 and the sunlight. The similarity in these two points is so exact that the 

 name "Elemi" is appropriate to that fig, and probably was originally the 

 occasion of the name being given to the most delicious fig in Smyrna. The 

 conclusion is certainly very strongly in favor of Mr. Parker's fig being the 

 true " Elemi " fig of Smyrna. 



If my investigations are correct, Mr. Parker will be benefited in pro- 

 portion to the reputation of the " Elemi" fig abroad. It will also be a fact 

 of much interest to the fruit growers of California that one of the best figs 

 in the world is grown in this State, and may soon be cultivated in every 

 orchard and its delicious fruit be upon every table. 



I have written thus freely, hoping that if I have fallen into any error 

 your greater knowledge of the subject will enable you to detect it at once, 

 and also for the purpose of calling your attention to the fact of the great 

 variety of figs of real excellence grown in Smyrna. I hope if it is proven 

 that the fig exhibited by Mr. Parker is not the true " Elemi," that efforts 

 will at once be made to introduce it; and, further, should it appear that 

 there are one or more varieties in Smyrna or elsewhere superior in flavor, 

 size, and drying qualities to the "Elemi," no time will be lost in introducing 

 them here. In view of the facts above stated, it is suggested that this fig 

 be called, known, and hereafter described as " Parker's Elemi" fig. 



Report of William Van Allen, Healdsburg. 



This section is particularly adapted to the growing of pears, peaches, 

 Bartlett pears, and prunes; the peach especially seems to attain finer flavor 

 than in some sections. The most profitable fruits grown here are peaches, 

 pears, cherries, and prunes. 



NEW FRUITS. 



The Centennial and a yellow cherry. 



VARIETIES RECOMMENDED FOR PLANTING. 



The late varieties of peaches; white cherries, especially Centennial; 

 French prunes, and Bartlett pears. 



LEADING VARIETIES GROWN. 



Cherry. — Black Tartarian, Napoleon Bigarreau, Governor Wood, Cen- 

 tennial. 



