328 Vegetables of Ceylon. 
Another tree, bearing a fruit as generally used, though by 
no means equal in utility to that of the cocoa, is the betel-tree. 
I have already mentioned how universally the areka or betel 
nut is cliewed by the natives of India. The leaf usually dis- 
tinguislied by the name of the betel-leaf does not, however, 
grow upon this tree, but from being constantly chewed along 
with the betel nut, has acquired this appellation. The tree, 
though remarkably tall and straight, is equally remarkable for 
its extreme slenderness, being no thicker than tiie calf of a 
man’s leg. The nuts grow in bunches at the top like those 
of the cocoa, but are in size no bigger than a nutmeg, and 
with the same sort of shell. After they are pulled, the Cin- 
glese expose them in the sun to dry, and then split the out- 
side husk, in order to separate it from the nut. The leaves 
of the betel-tree are from four to six feet in length, and very 
much resemble those of the cocoa, although of a more delicate 
texture. From the tree, at the root of the leaves, a substance 
grows up, and over-spreads them like a thick coat. This ex- 
traordinary substance resembles a tough leaf or rather a skin; 
it is used by the natives to hold their victuals, and is of so 
strong a texture that it retains water or arrack like a bladder; 
a purpose for whicli it is generally employed. 
The nuts, from their general use, form a great article of 
trade among the natives. The timber of the tree is used for 
rafters to houses, and makes excellent lath. It is also em- 
ployed in pales to fence their grounds. 
The plant from which the betel-leaf is procured resembles 
a vine, and is supported by twining around other trees or 
poles placed for the purpose. The leaf in shape and colour 
is not unlike that of the ivy, but larger and rather thicker. 
