128 



JOURNAL, R.A.S. (CEYLON). [VOL. XVII. 



The wood is light, pale yellowish -brown, easily split, and 

 is a favourite for lining pegs. Suitable for tea boxes, but 

 rather apt to split. Weight, about 32 lb. 



Closely related to the famous Durian (Durio zibethinus), 

 but does not possess an eatable fruit. 



STE RG U L I A C E JE . 



The Order contains both trees and shrubs, of which the 

 well-known Cacao is a representation. In Ceylon it is made 

 up of seven Genera : Sterculia, Heritiera, Helicteres, Ptero- 

 spermum, Pentapetes, Melochia, and Waltheria. 



70. — Sterculia fcetida. 



Telambu, S. 



Trim. Cey. Flor., vol. I., p. 164. 



A very large tall tree with pale white thick bark and 

 digitate leaves carried on long stalks. Easily recognized by 

 the large dull red, or orange, woody fruits (follicles) that open 

 out like large vegetable oysters. Flowers dull red and very 

 offensive. 



This tree is fairly common at low altitudes, but is more 

 abundant in the dry zone and intermediate rainfall area. 

 Wood light, about 36 lb. per cubic foot, pale dull greenish- 

 white. Only suitable for temporary work. 



[Common, especially in dry region.] 



71. — Sterculia Balanghas. 



Nava, S. ©383. 



Trim. Cey. Flor., vol. I., p. 165. 



A small tree with pale gray bark and simple leaves. Easily 

 distinguished when in fruit by its very brilliant almost 

 fiery orange fruit follicles. 



