58 
WALNUTS. 
ory which, by its numerous leaflets, most nearly resembles the Black Wal- 
nut and the Butternut, whose buds are also uncovered. 
Throughout the United States, the common name of Hickory is given 
to the species of the second section. This universal appellation is due to 
certain properties of their wood, which, however modified, are possessed 
by them all, in a greater degree than by any other tree of Europe or 
America. These species exhibit also a striking analogy in their form, and 
in their leaves, though they differ in the number and size of their leaflets. 
To these sources of confusion, must be added another in the fruit, which 
is often so various in its appearance, that it is easy to mistake the species 
to which it belongs. It is not then, on the most remarkable differences 
alone, that our distinctions must be founded ; recourse must also be had to 
an examination of the shoots of the preceding year, of the buds and of 
the aments. It was only by constant observation in the forests of the 
country, pursued through the course of a summer, that I became able 
readily to distinguish between mere varieties and species. M. Delille of 
the institute of Egypt, who was at that time in the United States, took an 
active part in my researches, and resorted with me daily to the woods. Our 
investigations, I flatter myself, have had the result, which may always be 
hoped for, from unwearied perseverance. 
From the considerations alleged, and principally from the striking resem- 
blance of their wood, I have thought proper, in describing the species of 
Hickory, to speak but summarily of their respective properties and to treat 
of this part of the subject collectively and comparatively, more at large, in 
a separate article which will complete their history. 
[For additional information on the Walnuts, see Nuttall’s Supplement, 
vol. I. p. 39. 
The genus Carya, has been separated from Jùglans byNuttall, chiefly on 
account of a technical distinction in the fruit. 
Propagation, &c. The species is propagated by the nut; which when 
the tree is to be grown chiefly for its timber, is best sown where it is finally 
to remain, on account of the taproot, which will thus have its full influence 
on the vigour and prosperity of the tree. In soils, on moist, or otherwise 
unfavourable subsoils, if sown where it is not finally to remain, a tile, slate, 
or flat stone should be placed under the nut at the depth of three or four 
inches, to give the taproot a horizontal direction ; or if this precaution is 
neglected, the taproot may be cut through with a spade six or eight inches 
below the nut. In a dry or rocky subsoil, or among rocks, no precaution 
of this kind is necessary. The varieties may be propagated by budding, 
grafting, inarching, or layering, and, possibly, by cuttings of the root. 
The nuts may be sown as soon as gathered, if there is no danger from 
vermin ; but if there is, defer sowing till February. The most convenient 
