alanic > ueieln.,
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“FOR THE
YEAR 1804,
i i; }
\ .
sy MEDLEY WOOD, ALS. ~
Corresponding Weniher of the Pharmaceutical Society of |
Bee tig Great Briain).
CURATOR.
io) U RB AN:
NAT AL MERCURY STEAM Ua NENL 0
Durban Datanic Seciety.
ne
iol cea
NATAL BOTANIC GARDENS
YEAR 1604,
J. MEDLEY WOOD, A.L.S.,
Corresponding Member of the Pharmaceutical Society of
Great Britain,
CURATOR.
DURBAN:
NATAL MERCURY STEAM PRINTING WORKS.
1895.
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DURBAN BOTANIC SOCIETY.
——_>-3>+ 9
OO IMEIMEI Ee AM ash, wee
President :
B. W. GREENACRE, Esq., M.L.A.
How. See: Hon. Creasurer :
Mr. J. D. BALLANCE. Mr. M. S. Evans.
Mr. R. JAMESON, Mr. G. RUTHERFORD, C.M.G.
Mr. C. A. HoLweELt.
Government Members :
MOSS, UAisoe SUN ONON DS Mr. F. Burron.
Mayors of Durban and Pietermaritzburg, ev officio.
Curator :
J. MEDLEY Woop, A.L.S.
TALI? 5
pgiizes py the inte et Archive
Fi eld Museum of Natural History Librar
Oe e|
REPORT.
BOTANIC GARDENS,
JANUARY, 1895.
To THE PRESIDENT AND COMMITTEE,
DurBAN BOTANIC SOCIETY.
GENTLEMEN,
Once more I am pleased to have to record the occurrence of a
very favourable season. Rains have been frequent and fairly plentiful,
and we have not during any part of the year suffered seriously from
drought. The meteorological observations taken at the Observatory
in the N.W. corner of the “Gardens have been kindly supplied by the
Government Astronomer, and are attached to this Report.
It was stated in my report for last year that the native and Indian
houses required attention, and I am glad to be able to say that sub-
stantial buildings have now been erected of brick, with galvanised iron
roofs. The Kafir-house is in the upper part of the eround, above the
Herbarium and Store-room, which has been found the most convenient
site, and it is quite large enough to accommodate all the natives we
shall be likely to employ for many years to come. ‘The Indian quarters
are in the lower or S.W. corner of the ground, near St. Thomas’ Road,
and here a building has been erected also of brick with iron roof, which
accommodates about half of the men with their families. Another
building of similar size and character will have to be erected as soon
as circumstances will admit of it, and then the accommodation for our
coloured labourers will be complete.
The next work to be undertaken will, I would suggest, be a new
Conservatory, and | hope that during the present year this may be
commenced. The present building is not nearly large enough to con-
tain our stock of plants, which is constantly on the increase, and is in
want of repairs, which cannot well be undertaken without removing
the plants. The site of the old store seems to me to be the most
suitable place for the new building, and it would, I think, be advisable
to erect it in three sections, the central house to be erected as soon as
convenient, and the two wings as soon as circumstances will allow,
and I hope in my next report to have to chronicle the completion of
the first section of this work,
2
The piece of land along the Sydenham Road boundary which has
been cleared, as stated in my last report, has now been nearly all
planted, and a list of the plants put out will be found in this report.
I intend as soon as possible to have another piece cleared at the lower
end of the ground, and I hope that it will be ready for planting during
next season.
At the commencement of the year arrangements were made to
connect the Gardens with the Town by telephone, and this has often
been found a great convenience, though the cost is somewhat heavy.
An order was sent home early in the year for flower pots, which
were duly received, but in spite of care and special methods of pack-
ing, the losses by breakage were very great. There seems now to be
a prospect of obtaining good pots locally made, the sample already
sent to us being of excellent quality, and the price reasonable.
The plant ‘labels hitherto used have not been found quite satis-
factory, the lettering soon becomes illegible, and they are frequently
broken by visitors.
Hw Se DY SRW HH DON
669
The following plants were received :—
lelanes Espeut _ wg), 4 plants of,a species
Agri-Horticultural Soc. ‘of India seshy ONS 65
Botanic Gardens, Melbourne sheep Sis
i Saharunpur ate e s
Sander & Co., London are G40 _ i “a
The above-named seeds and nents will be reported on next
year.
During 1893 we received 109 plants and 779 packets of seeds, as
stated in my last Report, which resulted as follows :—
” 5) ”
” os )
PLANTS.
Dead on arrival cide ans eae tiie 4 LO
Died afterwards from effects of voyage ves eee SCOUTS)
Planted in Gardens ... “ if one Sortemeae.
In pots (including orchids) .. eee one os oe 50
aaa in stock a rad an vee A 5h Mody
4
SEEDS.
Failed to germinate ...
Germinated, but died afterwards
Distributed ...
In stock
Still in Pots, or planted in Gardens.
Annuals and Weeds ...
eee eee
779
We have sent away during the year packages of plants, as under :
And
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Botanic Gardens, Melbourne ue
Agri-Horticultural Society, Calcutta
H. Strauss, Germany vets
Prof. Schinz, Zurich ... ite
Max Leichtlin, Baden-Baden
H. M. Arderne, Capetown ... 550
the following seeds :
Royal Botanic Gardens, Singapore
5 Jamaica
Botanic Gardens, aE
Brisbane..
” eee
1 Wardian case
6 boxes by post
1 Wardian case
2 Wardian cases
1 box by post
I case
2 boxes by maRt
1 box by post
I ”)
24 packets
2400»
240 yy
24 pieee
and 350 packets of seeds to vaaous correspondents abroad, while
numbers of packets of seeds of useful plants have been given to
Missionaries nnd others proceeding to the interior.
The following publications have been received :—
Report Royal Botanic Gardens, Calcutta ...
Bulletin, Royal Gardens, Kew
dy
”
Proceedings Agri. -Horticultural Society, Madras.. 50
of India
Ceylon
... from Director
Botanic Gardens and Forest Department,
Hong-Kong ..
Botanic Gardens and Forest Department,
Singapore
Imperial Botanic Gardens, Berlin
Botanic Gardens, Graaff- Reinet
Maritzburg
Nova Scotia
Saharunpur
)
”
Jamaicae se.
Botanic Gardens, St. Vincent
”)
Journal of Pharmaceutical SOCIEtyuers
Kew
Experiment Station Record .
Guide to Museum No. 3
eco
Diseases of Sugar Canes, by C. A. Barber .
Investigation of Californian Olives and Olive Oil
... from Curator
. ,» Committee
.. from Director
oe ” )
sie ” 3)
”
Supt.
Committee
”
sae F
Director
U.S. Govt.
Kew
University of!
California
)
5
Non-indigenous species of the Andaman Islands, by
Dr. 0), Prain
‘Remarks on Fauna ee Narcondam and Barren
Island, by Dr. D. Prain ...
Present condition of Barren Island, by Dr. Prain ...
Poking) | ANE OT:
OO) ”) ”
» ”
Laboratory Report, by E. Mercke, Use of Spray
Pump
Prof. Macowan
eee OB)
Reconstruction of Phylloxerised Vineyards, by J. F.
Marais
Ensilage, by A. C. Macdonald
‘Cultivation of Tobacco, by R. Schenck
Tobacco Culture ae
eee
Fermentation of Wine, by G. Payne
Insect and Fungus Pests, by G.R
Natal Farmers’ Magazine
Tropical Agriculturist...
. Deare
O00 bP] ”
OM ”) y)
) ”)
U0U ” ”
OD ) )
... Purchased
Ras i
La 3
The following plants have flowered or fruited in the Gardens for
‘the first time during the year :—
Acacia retinodes ... Bh
Andira inermis ...
Anguloa Clowesii
Boltonia cantonensis
Calotropis procera :
Cattleya amethystoglossa
, labiata var. autum-
nalis ; mele
‘Clerodendron macrosiphon
Clusia alba
Crescentia cuyete
Crinum subcernuum
‘Cypripedium Crossianum
. var. psittaicus
A venustum
Dendrobium
var. HOE ine
i" Leechianum ...
Lpidendrum Godsefianum
‘Gladiolus aurantiacus var.
te Sp. eee
Lymenocallis expansa ...
mpatiens Roylei
. scabrida 560
Aniphofia Woodii on
Lobelia Kerneri oe.
Marica Northiana
Nepenthes Rafflesiana
‘Oncidium bi-color ee
phymatochilon
crassinode
* violaceum
Phyllarthron comorense...
Physalis hirsuta uae
Australia
W. Indies
Colombia
China ...
Persia...
Brazile.
S. America
?
S. America
Jamaica
E. Africa
Hybrid
Nepal es
Ariacan
Hybrid
S. America
INTENT Ban
Delagoa Bay...
W. Indies
India
Himalayas
Natal ...
Costa Rica
Brazil ss
Singapore
Brazil ...
” eee
Brazil <.:
Damman & Co.
Jamaica Bot. Gardens.
Sander & Co.
St. Petersburg.
Kew.
Sander & Co.
”
Mauritius.
Mr. Colepepper.
J. Wilson.
Sander & Co.
Collected.
Capt. Turner.
J. O’Brien.
St. Petersburg.
”
Collected.
Damman & Co.
Sander & Co.
W. Bull.
Sander & Co.
Kew.
St. Petersburg.
Quillaja saponaria
Richardia hastata var. ...
ip Rehmannit
Rhodomyrtus tomentosa
Sedum formosianum
Solanum Wendlandii
Strychnos nux vomica ...
The following have
year :—
Acacia auriculiformis, A.
Cunn ws.
advialiformis, ?
- cavenia, Hook
“ Espino” eee
Vi COV NUZEN AT vacate
» eburnea, Willd...
Mm holosericea, A.
CUNT wes
latifolia, Bth.
leucantha
,» longifolia, Willd.
i var. So-
phoreer, Teva ear
» pendula, Cunn...
pentadenia, Lindl.
» podalyriefolia, A.
Cunn ...
» vetinodes, Schl...
Ny Nn SPEELAD ULES, Ale
CUNT ns
, strombolifera, ?
sh Sp. wee eee
Abroma augusta, Linn....
Albizzia amara, Bow ...
Alchornea ilicifolia, Muell
AL es aes ole
Apios tuberosa ...
Aralia Chabriert
Allamanda magnifica ...
‘ Williamsii ...
Archonto phanix Cun-
ninghamiana, W.D.
Areca sp.. i
Bauhinia picta, ? ale
Benthamia fragifera, Lal.
Boehmeria argentea
Calamus, sp. os. ue
Callicarpa purpurea
Calotropis procera 560
Cassipourea verticillata,
NEB
Chili, .s.5
Natal) 2%
nna M
if
Costa sRicay 3
Inrdia ye.
been planted in
Leguminosz...
d)
”
Sterculiacee ...
Leguminose ...
Euphorbiaceze
Leguminose ...
Araliaceze
Apocynez
” ese
Palmeze
3’)
Leguminosze
Cornacez
Urticaceze
Palme... is
Verbenacee ...
Asclepiadee ...
Rhizophoreze Au
Kew.
J. Marshall.
Reasoner Bros.
Hong Kong.
Kew.
p
the Gardens during the-
Australia.
?
Chili.
N. America.
India.
Australia.
N. Australia.
?
Sve Australia:
N. S. Wales, &c.
W. Australia.
Australia.
S. E. Australia.
Australia.
Peru.
r
E. Indies.
Abyssinia, India, &c.
Australia.
N. America.
P
i?
Queensland.
Ae
E. Indies.
China.
Andaman...
India.
Persia.
Natal..
-Clerodendron inerme
“Cycas revoluta, Tho.
‘Caryota Rumphiana, Mart.
ne ULENS. Linn
“Casuarina humilis, Ott &
Dietr.
eee
Catalpa Koempferi, Sieb.
rene es
Celtis sinensts, Persoon ...
Chamerops humilis, Linn
Chrysobalanus icaco ...
Chrysophyllum camito,
Linn ct “5
Cinchona hybrida
»» macrosiphon
59 SPOClOSUM ww niet
5, tomentosum, R. Br.
Clusia rosea 7").
Coccoloba uvifera
Cocos australis, Mart. ...
» eampestris, Mart....
» Wedelliana, Wendl.
RP SECHLATILL ‘3.
Cytisus proliferus
Dacrydium cupressinum,
Solan sine sae
Dasylivion Wheeleri
Sp.
Deutzia, Sp. ‘ ae
Didymosper mum ‘porphy-
KOcarpon, WD. sis,
Diervillea ( Weigelia rosea )
Dypsis madagascariensis,
fTert. ene
Ehretia serrata, Roxb. ...
Elacodendron quadrangu-
latum 500
Epipremnum mirabile ...
Ficus Cannoni ...
» eburnea, Ld. a
5, Llomerata, Miller...
» longifolia, Schott ...
Garcinia indica, Chois....
Geonoma gracilis, Wendl.
Gleditschia sinensis,
Lam. wets
Guetum gnemon, Linn...
Hedychium capitatum ...
rs Sp. wee
£Tedyscepe Canterburyana,
W. & D
7
Palme...
” eee
Casuarineze
Bignoniacez
Urticaceze
Palme...
Rosaceze
Sapotaceze
Rubiaceze
Verbenaceze
”)
”
Guttiferec
Polygonaceze
Palme...
” eee
eee
Cycadacez
Leguminose
Conifereze
Bromeliaceze
”
Saxifrageze
Palmz:..
pee
Caprifoliaceze...
Palme...
Boraginez
Celastrinez
Aroidez
Urticaceze
”)
)
”
Guttifereze
Palme...
Leguminosz
Gnetaceze
Scitamineze
”)
Palme...
Moluccas.
E. Indies.
W. Australia.
Japan.
China.
S. Europe.
Florida.
W. Indies.
China.
Australia.
Carolina.
W. Indies.
Brazil.
”
”
Japan.
Canaries.
New Zealand.
Java.
China.
Madagascar.
E. Indies.
Brazil.
Australia.
E. Indies.
”)
Costa Rica.
China.
E. Indies.
”
”
Lord Howe’s Island.
FTeritiera fomes, Buch. ...
» macrophylla ...
LTibiscus grandiflorus ...
+5 7ncanus
x luteusse.
Howea Balmoreana, Bec.
», Losteriana ea
Inula cuspidata ...
Lpomea, sp. 580
Karatas Plumieri
Kirkia acuminata ose
Kniphofia Woodii, Baker
Latania _ Verschaffeltiz,
Linn 505
Leea coccinea a
Liguidambar styracifiua,
Linn 308
Livistona australis, Mart.
a votundifolia, ,,
Lobelia Kerneri «.. ees
Macrozamia Miquellii, F.
Usd eneas 5h
, Lerowskiana, Mig.
» spiralis, Miquellit
Mallotus japonicus
Manihot palmata 509
Marica Northiana, Ker.
Melaleuca genestifolia, Sm.
Melia azedarach, var. um-
braculifera ...
Melothria Regelii
Mimusops parviflora
Monetia barlerioides,
LO IE TS. 5n0
Myristica suvinamensis
Nerium rubrum plenum
», Sp. (crimson )
» Sp- (variegated) ...
Ochna multiflora 400
Ochrosia elliptica, Labill.
Oenocarpus Bacaba, Mart.
Oroxylum indicum, Vent.
Parkia Roxburgii, G. Don
Phenix canartensis,
Naud. 500
Phyllanthus intermedius
Phyllarthron comorense...
Piscidia erythrina ese
Pistacia lentiscus, Linn...
Pithecolobium bigeminum,
Bth.-
eee
8
Sterculiaceze
sD)
Malvaceze
yy eco
d)
Palme...
ean
Composite ...
Convolvulaceze
Bromeliacez ...
Simarubeze
Palme...
Ampelideze
Hamamelideze
Palme...
y»” eee
Cycadeze
yy eco
Euphorbiaceae
[rides tyes
Wivaitae eze name
Meliaceze dels
Cucurbitacee...
Sapotacez ...
Ilicineze
Myristicez
Apocynacee ...
yy” eee
»?
Ochnaceze
Apocynacez ...
Palmze
Bignoniacez
Leguminose ...
Palmze Sc
Euphorbiacez
Bignoniacee ...
Leguminose ...
Anacardiacez
Leguminosz oe
Georgia.
Carolina.
Lord Howe’s Island..
” ”)
Guatemela.
W. Indies.
Transvaal.
Natal.
Roderiguez.
Trop. Asia.
Central America..
E. Australia.
Moluccas, &c.
Queensland..
”
”
Brazil.
Australia.
New Holland..
E. Indies.
Queensland...
Rio Negro.
E. Indies.
E. Indies.
Canaries.
W. Indies..
S. Europe..
E. Indies.
Podocarpus dacrydiotdes,
Rich.
,, Lotara, Den.
Prosopis spicigera
Punica granatum, Linn,
VO uaaee
Pyrethrum cinerariafolium
Raphiolepis indica
Ravenala elegans
a5 guianensis
Salvadora persica, Linn...
Sambucus racemosa
Sapota sideroxylon
Sarcocephalus cordatus,
Mig. ose sig
Solanum Wendlandit
Spartium junceum sie
Sterculia acerifolia, A.
Cunn.
elata, Roxb.
,, heterophylla
Strophanthus hispidus ...
Tacsonia, Von Volxemt
Funcke
Tecoma Smithit ...
Terminalia tomentosa, W.
Sr Alay ec
Thrinax radiata, Lodd....
Veronica, sp.
Viburnum opulus, Linn.
Washingtonia fiifera,
Wendl.
5, vobusta bn
Widdringtonia Whytet «..
Zamia integrifolia
)
oce eee
eee e
Cycadeze
Coniferze
” :
Leguminosz
Myrtacez
Composite
Rosacez eae
Scitaminez ...
i sete
Salvadoracez...
Caprifoliacez...
SAVOCACEZer Wils.e
Rubiacez
Solanaceze
Leguminosz
Sterculiaceze
” eee
” eoe
Apocynaceze
Passifloreze ...
Bignoniacee ...
Combretacee...
Palme dee
Scrophulariacez
Caprifoliacez...
Conifereze
With but very few exceptions these
purpose.
__ Acacia cavenia, Hook & Arnott, “ Espino.’—This isa small tree
yielding a very hard wood, which is applied to many useful pur-
It is also said to be very suitable for a hedge plant.
Acacia retinodes, Schlech.—Also a small tree, yielding a good tan-
poses
ning bark, and a valuable gum.
Acacia pendula, Cunn, “Weeping Myall.’—The wood of this
tree is scented, hard, and beautifully marked ; it is in demand for
cabinet work, and also for tobacco pipes.
Apios tuberosa, Moench.—A climber with milky juice bearing a
number of small tubers, which are eatable.
New Zealand.
Cotomandel.
S. Europe.
Dalmatia.
China.
S. America.
India.
S. Europe.
India.
Costa Rica.
Canaries.
Australia.
India.
E. Africa.
New Granada.
India.
W. Indies.
Europe.
S. Carolina.
California.
Central Africa.
U. S. America.
plants are put out in the
Gardens for the first time, and it may therefore be well to note a few
of the most interesting ones, omitting altogether any that are orna-
mental only, or are not known to me to be applied to any useful
Io
Caryota urens, Linn., “Wine Palm.”—The trunk yields a sago-like
starch. From the sap, toddy and sugar are obtained, and the fibre from
the leaf stalks is made into ropes, brushes, baskets, &c.
Chamaerops humilis, Linn., ‘Dwarf Fan Palm.’—Hats, mats,
baskets, and brushes are made from the leaves.
Chrysophyllum caintto, Linn., “Star Apple.” —Bears an eatable fruit,
which is much esteemed in the West Indies.
Catalpa Kempferi, Sieb. & Zucc.—A quick-growing tree with fra-
grant flowers; a useful tree for street planting. Some of the Catalpas
yield a durable and valuable wood.
Celtis sinensis, Persoon, ‘“ Henoki.”
useful for carpenters’ and turners’ work.
Dacrydium cupressinum, Soland., “Red Pine,” of New Zealand.
Attains a height of 200 feet, and yields a valuable timber, which, how-
ever, is not suitable for damp situations. A suitable tree for cemeteries.
Garcinia indica, Chois.—Seeds yield a valuable oil, which is .
used, among other purposes, to adulterate Ghee. a
Liquidambar styraciflua, Linn., “Sweet Gum Tree.’”— A large tree,
which prefers moist situations ; the wood is valuable, and much es-
teemed for furniture ; also yields a gum. oe
Piscidia erythrina, Linn., “ Jamaica Dogwood.’—-A tree reaching
30 feet in height, whose bark is used medicinally.
Pistachia lentiscus, Linn., “Mastic Tree.”—Yields a resinous gum, ~
and is also used for hedges.
Podocarpus dacrydioides, Rich, “ White-wood.”—-A tree belonging
to the same genus as our “ Yellow-wwood.” It sometimes reaches 200
feet in height ; the timber is soft, and is used for canoes.
Podocarpus totara, “ Totarra Pine.”—A tree belonging to the
same genus as the last named; one of the best timber trees of New
Zealand, but found only on the North Island. The wood is durable,
and not liable to attacks of insects.
Quillaja saponaria, “ Quillai.”—A tree, the bark of which is rich
in “saponine,” and is used for washing clothes ; 20z. is sufficient to
wash a dress, and it is said to remove all spots and stains, and to give
a lustre to wool. It has also been used for preparing a hair wash, to
promote growth of the hair.
The following plants have been alluded to in previous reports :—
Melia azadirvachta, “ Margosa.’—This plant continues to do well,
and seems to be quite suited to the coast districts of the Colony. It
would appear to be a very valuable tree. A correspondent of the
“Tropical Agriculturist ” says of it :—
“Tt yields first a rough bark which Tamils have only lately
begun to value as a rival to quinine in fever cases, though ad-
ministered very sparingly and in small quantities, its taste being
intensely nauseous and bitter. Its leaves also are medicinal,
and when burnt green on a fire in a brazier or earthenware
chattie (as well as the dead bark) will, if placed in ary room,
- drive away or kill the most obstinate and bloodthirsty of mos-
quitoes. The green bark is also used successfully as a vermifuge .
in the treatment of buffaloes and country cattle, and pounded
and applied to a sore will kill every worm init. The timber
A fine tree ; the wood is
«
II
‘sawn from the tree is noted for keeping off white ants. A valu
able and particularly clear gum exudes from the bark, naturally
in small quantities, but when bruised in large sheets, and yellow
drops like icicles. Books bound with this gum are never bored
or eaten by worms, and painted on an abrasion or skin wound
will take off all pain. The yield of the tree in the shape ot
fruit is marvellous, and these furnish food to goats, crows, and
hundreds of the smaller of the feathered tribe, and the ground
under Margosa in fruit is daily and nightly carpeted with fruit.
The leaf or seed of the Margosa contains a valuable, rich and
clear oil, sometimes burnt in earthen lamps, but specially valu
able for fly-blow sores in horses, elephants, and cattle. It is
also used medicinally in very minute doses. It smells atro-
ciously, butis very valuable:as a lubricant for steel, iron, &c.,
from which it keeps rust.”
This plant belongs to the same genus as our common “ Syringa,’
which is Melia azederach.
Rheum officinale-—This is the medicinal “ Turkey Rhubarb”
plant, and in my last report I stated that it was scarcely likely to
succeed on the coast, and that I had forwarded seed to the Maritzburg
Botanic Gardens for trial there. We have, however, several plants,
which appear to be quite healthy, and the Curator of the Gardens at
Maritzburg informs me that he also has several plants, which, from
his description, would appear to be about the same size as ours. Their
further progress we shall therefore watch with interest.
Rubus trivialis, “ American Dewberry.’—This plant has borne
fruit during the year, and is worthy of extended cultivation. Of its
near relative 2. phenicolasius, the much-vaunted “Japanese Wine-
berry,” we have a plant or two, which have not yet borne fruit.
Rumex hymenosepalus, “ Canaigre.” —These seeds germinated
well, and several plants were reared and formed small tubers, which
are now dormant. It is expected that plants reared from them will
form tubers of larger size, so that before long we shall be able to say
with certainty whether the plant is adapted “to. the soil and climate of
the Colony. Small quantities of the seed were sent to three appli-
cants for trial in other parts of the Colony. Two of them have been
unfortunate enough to lose nearly all their plants from unforeseen
causes, while from the third I have no report. If this plant should be
found to succeed, it will be a valuable addition to the exportable
products of the Colony. My first knowledge of it was derived from
the “ Kew Bulletin” of April, 1890. Since that time a full account
of it from the pen of Mr. W. Tyson, of the Cape Agricultural Depart-
ment, was published in a Cape paper, which I have unfortunately mis-
laid. It is, however, reported on very favourably as a tanning material.
Polygonum sacchalinense.—This plant was reported at some length
last year. The plants still continue to do well, and it will, I think,
prove suited to the Colony. The U.S. America Experiment Station
Record says of it :—
“It seems perfectly acclimatised, and grows vigorously on
any kind of soil, and as a green fodder is well liked by stock,
especially by cattle. It produces six or more cuttings after the
12
first year. . . . . It is propagated by cuttings of the
‘running roots’ planted in February. . . . It will remain
green and leafy until frost, and withstands drought very well..
The annual amount of green fodder produced is very large. .
The usefulness of the plant as a source of dry winter
fodder is still to be investigated.”
Cola acuminata.—Seeds of this tree were received from Kew,,
some of which have germinated, but it is as yet too early to report
upon their growth.
“Sand Stay Plants.’—These plants which were received from
Baron F. vy. Mueller, as stated in last year’s repcrt, have been handed
over to the Borough Engineer for planting on the sand dunes near
the Point.
Agave rigida, var. Sisalana, “ Sisal Hemp.’—These plants are
perfectly healthy, and young plants have been reared, and could be
obtained in much larger quantities if any demand existed for them,
but at present no one seems inclined to undertake the cultivation of
fibre plants.
Epipiemnum mirabile, “ Tonga.’—This plant, which has been
successfully used in some cases of neuralgia, grows here luxuriantly ;
plants have been reared, and will be ready for distribution in the
early spring.
fris Robinsoniana, “Wedding Flower,” Lord Howe’s Island.—
This plant, which has been for several years in the Gardens, in
November last produced a flowering spike, but, unfortunately, the
flowers all withered before opening. General Lowther, in a letter to
Mr. R. Jameson, says that it bears large snow-white flowers, with
golden spots, and that its leaves yield a valuable fibre. It has only
flowered twice in England, viz., at Kew and in the Scilly Islands. He
also says that perpetual moisture is the best treatment, and, as our
plant is in a very dry place, its failure to produce flowers is accounted
for. It will now be removed to a more favourable situation.
It will be seen that the plants already noticed are exotics which
have been introduced into the Colony for trial ; but it is certain that
many of our native plants are worthy of more attention than they have
hitherto received, and some of these have been alluded to in previous.
reports as well as in local publications. I have often been applied to
with respect to pasture grasses, and have introduced and distributed
numerous packets of seed of different species, of which, as a rule, no.
more is heard. My own opinion is, and always has been, that we
require no better pasture grasses than those we already have, but more
care must be taken of them, especially in regard to indiscriminate
burning, and, in this opinion, Lam confirmed by a paper in the “Kew
Bulletin” for November last, from which I propose to make copious.
extracts, as but few people see this publication, and fewer still know
the grasses by the names there given. The list of tropical grasses
possessing special merit for fodder purposes has been revised by Sir
J. D. Hooker, and comprises 20 species, of which 7 are either
indigenous or have been imported into the Colony, and the notes on
these species I shall quote at some length, merely enumerating such
as have not, to my knowledge, been introduced.
“
13
TROPICAL FODDER GRASSES.
The selection of suitable grasses for cultivation in tropical
countries is a matter of considerable importance. Few countries have
completely solved the question. It is evident also that a good deal of
time and energy is spent in the effort to introduce foreign grasses,
when there are excellent indigenous grasses close at hand. It is
proposed to draw attention to a few grasses that have attained to first
rank for fodder purposes in the tropics, and to give particulars
respecting the conditions under which they have been found to thrive.
It is well known that the same kinds of grasses do not succeed equally
well in all localities. There are certain conditions and peculiarities of
climate and soil to be considered; but there is no reason to doubt
that if careful experiment is made, suitable grasses can be found for
cultivation in almost every tropical country. In some of our colonies.
it is well known that grass, even for valuable horses, is gathered day
by day from waste places and jungles. Such fodder is not only poor
in quality, but it is liable to be infected with disease from stray
animals. Further, during seasons of drought, the fodder supply is
likely to fail altogether. The selection and cultivation of grasses,
with particular reference to their grazing qualities, or for the produc-
tion of hay, should receive more attention, and it will doubtless
become, before long, a regular branch of rural industry in the tropics,
as it has been for so many years in temperate countries.
NATURAL HERBAGE.
In the tropics the difficulty in establishing grasses is caused by
the usually rank growth of weeds and bushes. These soon overrun
any cleared area, and they have to be continnally eradicated, or the
grass would be completely destroyed. The natural herbage in most
tropical countries would of itself form excellent pasture for cattle and
horses. There is hardly any part of the world entirely devoid of good
grasses, and these should first of all receive attention. Where no
suitable fodder grasses are available, then, under such exceptional
circumstances, it would be well to introduce the useful ‘Guinea
Grass” and “Para Grass” for cultivation on land suitable for the
PURPOSS ) -) : . . After the grass has become thoroughly
established, an annual clearing after the rains is all that is required.
It should, however, be understood that continuous feeding is injurious
to the permanency of good pastures. The best grasses are thus
destroyed, and rank-growing ones gradually take their place. Close
feeding for a time is advantageous, but the pasture should have time
to recover before the animals are again placed upon it. Further, it is
better to keep cattle on a portion of the pasture at one time, and not
allow them to wander at will over a large area.
TREES IN PASTURES.
Thwaites recommended that in Ceylon trees should always be
planted upon land laid out for permanent pasture. The trees would
afford grateful shade to the cattle, and they would prevent the grass
from being entirely dried up during seasons of drought. Trees would
also add to the beauty of the country. Most extensive pastures,
14
‘dotted over with shade trees, exist in Jamaica. Many trees, such as
the Saman ( Calliandra Saman ) not only give excellent shade, but the
pods are a most wholesome food for cattle. The commoner and more
hardy sorts of Mango might be planted for the same purpose, as also
the Ramoon ( Zvophis americana ), the leaves of which afford a very
nutritious food for cattle in Tropical America; the Bread Nut
(Brosimum Alicastrum) ; the Jack (Artocarpus integrifolia ) ; and the
bastard Cedar (Guazuma tomentosa). The leaves, as well as the
fruits, of the last are much liked by cattle. This brief list of useful
pasture trees might be considerably enlarged. It would be noticed that
many of the trees mentioned belong to the natural order Urticacee.
As the plants belonging to this order are so widely distributed
over tropical regions, each country could- make its own selection
of suitable pasture trees. The best of all is undoubtedly the
Saman.*
ANNUAL FODDER GRASSES.
In dry regions not suitable for permanent pastures, the Moves
et ( Eragrostis abyssinica) might be grown during the occasional
rains and made into hay. This grass will produce a heavy crop of hay
in six weeks from the time of sowing. — It 1s very nourishing, and
Cattle are very, fond ofit, 2 4,
The United States Ag ricultural Department has declared that
“ the value of Sorghum for feeding stock cannot be surpassed by
another crop, as a greater amount of nutritious fodder can be obtained
from it in a shorter time within a given space, and more cheaply.”
A very valuable fodder grass belonging to this group is the
Teosinte (Luchlena luxurians). This yields very large crops in
good land, and is regarded as one of the most prolific of annual
grasses. Four good cuttings can be made in four months. 5
The following tropical grasses are selected as possessing special
merit for fodder purposes. Amongst them are plants suitable for
almost every condition found in tropical countries. The list has had
the advantage of the revision of Sir Joseph Hooker, who is now
working out the grasses of British India, and who has suggested some
emendations of the commonly-accepted nomenclature.
Anthistiria australis,} R. Brown.—The well-known “Kangaroo.
grass” of South Austr alia, but widely distributed through Southern
Asia and the whole of Africa. A perennial upright grass over 3ft. in
height. It enjoysa wide reputation, and is regarded as the most useful
of the indigenous grasses of Eastern Australia, stock of all descriptions
being remarkably fond of it. The roots are strong and penetrate the
‘soil to a great depth, so the plant remains green during the greater
part of the summer. In the autumn the foliage turns brown, when,
however, its nutritive qualities are said to be at the highest. If cut
as soon as the flower stem appears, it can be made into excellent hay.
* Of the trees enumerated above, two are already in the Colony, viz., the
-Jack and the Saman, but the latter does not bear fruit with us. Belonging to
the order Ur ticacece,we have indigenous trees as follows :—Celtis, two species ;
Trema, one; Chaetachme, two; and Ficus, several.
+ This is our Red Grass, called by the natives Insinda.
15
The most reliable way to propagate this grass is by division of the
roots. It perfects little seed (Turner).
Anthistivia avenacea, F. v. M., “ Tall Oat Grass,” of New South
Wales.—Not in Natal.
Astrebla pectinata, F.v.M., North and East Australia.—Not in Natal.
Astrebla triticoides, F.v. M. (Danthonia triticoides, Ldl.), “‘ Mitchell
Grass” of Australia.—Not in Natal.
Cynodon dactylon,* Pers.—A prostrate perennial grass with very
narrow glaucous green leaves. It is widely distributed in all hot
countries, and extends also into temperate regions. It passes under
various names such as “‘ Bahama Grass,” “ Indian Couch Grass,”
“Doub,” and “Doorva.” . It is an important grass for covering bare,
barren land, and for making smooth compact lawns. It resists
extreme drought, and once established in cultivated land it is very
difficult to eradicate. It is easily established by planting small
portions of the rooting stems about 8in. apart. If done at the beginning
of the rainy season the ground will be completely covered in six
weeks. It may also be propagated by seeds, which are now readily
obtained in commerce. It should, however, never be planted except
in places where it is required to remain permanently. When grown
specially for fodder, in enclosed paddocks, it yields three or four crops
in the year, and makes excellent hay. In very dry seasons in the
West Indies, animals exist almost entirely on the underground
rhizomes of this grass.
Lragrostis abyssinica, Link, “ Teff.’—Seed of this grass was
received from Kew in 1887, and distributed to many applicants. It
was very favourably reported on as a quick-growing fodder grass, but
since that time I have heard nothing of it. -
Euchloena luxurians,t Miers (Reana luxurians, Durieu). “Teo
sinte.’—An annual grass of large size, from Guatemala, allied to the
IMZey ya 2) 1 lt .is, 4 tall, densely-tuited grass, sometimes
reaching 15 feet in height, the stems are as thick as the thumb at the
base, and the leaves 3 to 4 feet long, by 2 or 3 inches broad. Dr.
Schomburgk, in 1880, wrote from the Adelaide Botanic Gardens,
South Australia: “I have now cultivated Teosinte for three years,
and it is one of the most prolific of fodder plants.”
Mr. W. R. Robertson, Agricultural Reporter to the Government
of Madras, wrote as follows in July, 1883: ‘A small plot was sown
with this crop. The out-turn of green fodder was at the rate of
38,400 Ibs. per acre, a very large out-turn, but the cost of production
was great, for it was necessary to irrigate the land nearly every other
day, from sowing until harvest. . . . . . On good soils, under
liberal treatment, when it can obtain plenty of rain, or irrigation
water, the crop grows most rapidly and luxuriantly ; but it cannot
Stands a drought, .):...) ..)..|,lhere is, perhaps, no other .crep,
sugar cane excepted, which will produce such an enormous quantity
* This grass is a native of Natal, but is not, I think, much esteemed. It is
known to the Zulus as Isinande.
_ ¢ Seed of this plant was introduced into the Colony many years ago, and it
is still occasionally seen in cultivation, but does not appear to find much favour
with farmers, probably because sufficient attention has not been given to its
requirements in regard to moisture.
16
of green plant per acre, but the fodder is very watery, and does not
appear to be very palatable to stock when offered for the first time.
The watery juices of the stem seem to be destitute of saccharine
matter during all stages of growth. . » . In stheyoundallon
the Agri.- -Hort. Society of India, 1894, p. 78, it'is stated: A very good
crop was raised this season. After the stalks had reached a height of
about 5 feet, they were cut down to within 1 foot of the eround ;
three weeks later a second crop was ready for cutting, varying in
height from 18 inches to 3 feet ; a third crop was cut a month later,
and ‘yielded stalks about 2 feet high. In this manner, three good
cuttings were made in four months. It was found that from 43 to 5
Ibs. of seed were sufficient to sow an acre. The fodder is greatly
relished by cattle. At Lagos, on the West Coast of Africa, Mr. Millen
has successfully introduced ‘Teosinte’ asa forage plant, and in June,
1894, he wrote ‘I have planted a quantity of plants of Euchlena
luxurians; it is the only fodder plant of those introduced which
appears to be growing ou good results.
Leersia hexandr a," Sw., “Rice grass.”—A widely distributed
perennial swamp-grass found in the warm regions of both hemispheres.
It has a somewhat slender stem 2 to 3 feet long, with narrow leaves
and panicled spikes. In the Philippine Islands this grass is regularly
cultivated under the name of Zacate for the purpose of supplying food
to domestic animals. It is treated like rice, being transplanted to wet
and previously-ploughed meadows. Bailey found it to be one of the
most relished by cattle amongst the aquatic grasses of East Australia.
In Singapore it is regularly gathered in waste places as a green fodder
for cattle and horses.
Panicum colonum, Linn.—Not in Natal.
Panicum maximum,t Jacq (P. jumentorum, Pers). “ Guinea
Grass.” . . It is best propagated by root cuttings. It
should Te planted about 2 feet apart in parallel ridges, at the com-
mencement of the rains. The rows of plants should form lines at
right angles to the ridges. This arrangement will facilitate ploughing
and weeding between the plants. In Madras this grass is known to
resist the effects of severe droughts. In old-established fields it is
advisable to pass a plough or cultivator occasionally through and
across the crop, and to manure the land thoroughly. Where the plants
have formed large tussocks, these should be reduced by simple
chopping with a spade or hoe at right angles, thus dividing each one
into four parts. Of these, three may be removed for planting else-
where, or they will form excellent bedding for cattle stalls. During
the cold weather of Northern India the plants dry up, and remain
dormant until the approach of spring. In places where frosts appear,
manure should be applied to the roots at the commencement of the
cold season. It is particularly enjoined that Guinea Grass should not
be grazed too closely. The “St. Mary’s Grass” in Jamaica may be a
robust variety of P. maximum, or another species. It grows in large
tufts to the height of 6 to 8 feet, with the stems hard and indurated
in old specimens.
* Indigenous to Natal.
t+ Common in coast districts of Natal.
17
Panicum bulbosum,* H.B.K. (regarded by Munro asa variety of
P. maximum, and found in the Southern United States), is mentioned
by Vasey as likely to be of great agricultural value.
Panicum molle,> Swartz. . . .. According to Swartz, it is
a native of Surinam, and is commonly called “ ‘Dutch Grass” in
Jamaica.
Panicum muticum,t Firsk (P. numidianum, Lam ; P. barbinode,
Trin; P. molle, Griseb non Sw. ).—It has various names, such as “ Para
Grass,” ‘Mauritius Grass,’ “Scotch Grass,” and “Water Grass.”
Panicum spectabile,| Nees.—A valuable fodder plant, long
established in Brazil and other parts of Tropical America. It
is known as “ Cassim de Angola.” According to Spruce, it
is also called “Canna Rana.” The stem is stout, 5 to 6 feet high, with
the nodes softly bearded. The leaves are 3 feet long, and about an
inch broad. The spikes are numerous, with the spikelets arranged in
4-6 series. It belongs to the same section of Panicum as the “ Cock-
spur grass” (P. crus-galli). By some it is regarded as a robust
variety of that species. The Brazilian specimens in the New
Herbarium are, however, well marked. This grass was introduced,
according to Martius (Fl. Bras 11, pp. 2 and 143) from the South West
Coast of Africa. It prefers moist situations, and spreads rapidly
everywhere. On the Niger, Barter described it as an ‘aquatic grass
© feet high.” In East Africa, Kirk speaks of it as supplying “the
richest fodderfor cattle.” It is widely spread in Tropical America, in
‘Cuba, Jamaica, various parts of Brazil, and south as far as Paraguay.
It isa very desirable grass to introduce into the East Indies.
Panicum texanum,§ Buckley.—“ Blue Grass,” “Colorado Grass,’
““ Buffalo Grass,” or « Austin Grass.”
Paspalum conjugatum,] Berg.—“ Sour Grass” of Jamaica, “Green
Grass” of Singapore.
Paspalum distichum,** Linn.— Silt Grass or ‘‘ Water Couch.”
Paspalum sanguinale,t > Lam. (Panicum sanguinale, Lam.).—A
widely-diffused annual grass, found in all warm regions of the Globe.
The stems usually rise to the height of 2 to 3 feet, and at the summit
have from 3 to 6 slender flower spikes, each from 4 to 6 inches long. In
cultivated areas this grass is a troublesome weed, as it spreads with
amazing rapidity. Known in the United States as “Crab Grass,” where
it is recognised as the most useful of all pasture grasses. It makes a
sweet hay, and horses are exceedingly fond of it. Cotton and corn-
fields in the south are often so overrun with it that the hay which might
-be secured would be more valuable than the original crop. In Fiji,
* Not known in Natal.
+ Not known in Natal.
t Not known in Natal.
|| P. spectadile is not known in Natal, but P. crus-galli is not uncommon,
§ Not known in Natal.
{ Said to be widely distrsbuted throughout Tropical America and Africa,
but not known to me.
** Not known to me.
tt This grass is a native of Natal.
18
Singapore, and Ceylon it is widely-diffused near gardens and planta
tions. In the former country it is “the best pasture grass,” while at
Singapore, Ridley says it makes an excellent “turf grass.’
Panicum pabulare,* Aitch. and Hemil (P. ci/iare, D. C.) isa variety
of FP. Sanguinale, described by Aitchison as the best fodder grass for
cattle in the Kuram Valley of Afghanistan.
Paspalum scrobiculatum,t Linn., “ Kodo” or “ Koda” Millet, of
India.—An erect-growing annual grass, with stems about 2 feet high.
It is widely dispersed through the tropics of the Eastern Hemisphere,
generally regarded as a valuable pasture grass, and as an ingredient
for hay. It sometimes attains a height ‘of 6 to 8 feet. The grain 1s
largely used as food by the natives of India, but it is by no means a
wholesome article of diet. | Unless special precautions are taken, it is
liable to act as a narcotic poison. Cattle, and especially buffaloes, eat
the grass readily when it is young. The straw is occasionally used as
fodder. Animals are, however, carefully excluded from the fields
when the crop is ripening, as they appear to suffer even more than
men from the ill effects of Kodra poisoning. It is the “ Ditch Millet”
of New South Wales, and the Herbe a épée of Mauritius.
Stenotaphrum americanum, Kunth (S. dimidiatum,t Trin. ).—
“Pimento Grass” (Jamaica), “ Buffalo Grass” (Australia).
These are all the grasses enumerated in the article in the “Kew
Bulletin,” from which I have copied ; and specimens of those that are
indigenous may be seen in the Colonial Herbarium. Several other
native species are noted by Baron F. v. Mueller as being good pasture
and fodder grasses, and I think it would be well for the Colony if
greater care were ipicen for their preservation.
The following articles on the Utilisation of Bananas and Preserv-
ing Mangoes appeared in the Bulletin of the Agricultural Department
of Jamaica, and may perhaps be found useful by some of our coast
fruit-growers :—
UTILISATION OF BANANAS FOR MEAL, ALCOHOL, &C.
Stanley’s work, “In Darkest Africa,’ called the attention of the
world to the dietetic value of Bananas, especially for invalids. Since
that date experiments have been made for the purpose of so preparing
Bananas that they might be made use of in all climates, not merely
as fruit, but in the form of meal to be cooked as gruel, puddings, &c.
In Jamaica it is of great importance to discover some plan for the
utilisation of the fruit, which at present is wasted—the small bunches, |
and those that are unfit for export for other reasons, such as bruising
or over ripeness.
A Committee of the Board of Governors of the Jamaica Institute,
with the Director of Public Gardens as Chairman, investigated this.
subject some time ago, but the conclusion arrived at then was that
the data in their possession were not such as to encourage any hopes.
of planters being able to manufacture the waste Bananas themselves
* Not a native of Natal.
+ This grass was collected in the vicinity of Newcastle by Rev. J.
Buchanan.
¢t Not a native of Natal.
1g
or dispose of them toa factory. The Director has, however, been
making enquiries in London, and _ has had an interview with a Dutch
engineer, Mr, Hartogh, who has invented machinery for the conversion
of Bananas into various products. The specimens seen of these
products were of excellent quality, and it is interesting to note that
the peel can be used in certain cases for manufacture, as well as the
pulp of the fruit. The prospects of this new industry are now more
hopeful, and it seems probable that the factories will be started in
Jamaica for the utilisation of Bananas that are now wasted.
Mr. Hartogh, after seeing the references to Bananas in Stanley’s
book, visited Dutch Guiana in 1892 with the object of studying the
preparation of Bananas so as to utilise the large proportion of starch
contained in them for food, and for other industrial purposes. He
invented various machines, and has prepared different products from the
Banana, which have been submitted for analysis and test to specialists
in all the industries in which starch products are employed.
Whether his special methods are of such a nature as to be profitable
both to the planter and to the manufacturer, the results of the tests
to which the products have been submitted will be interesting to all
growers of Bananas. They have been published in connection with an
exhibit in the Antwerp Exhibition of this year, made by the “ Stanley
Syndicate,” which has been founded by Mr. Hartogh, and by Mr.
Asser, Civil Engineer at the Hague, who acts as Secretary. An experi-
mental factory has for some time been at work in Dutch Guiana.
Among others, experiments on a large scale have been carried out
in Mr. Kahlke’s manufactory of yeast and alcohol at Konigsberg, and at
his request in a laboratory at Berlin. An account of these experiments
was published in the weekly paper “ Alcohol” in its numbers 10, It,
12,and 15. The use of Banana flour is regarded in this periodical as
opening a perfectly new prospect for the industry in question. It is
affirmed that the richness of banana flour in starch is in a special state
which facilitates in a most remarkable manner the production of yeast
without diminishing the quantity of alcohol. The latter has a fine
aromatic flavour.
Mr. Kahlke, one of the best-known manufacturers ef yeast in
Germany, writes in this connection :—
“Banana flour, without doubt, from its richness in starch
and its good flavour, is particularly suitable for the manufacture
of yeast. This flour is easily rendered saccharine. The yeast
obtained by adding Banana flour to the other ingredients has a
good colour, all the requisite properties of an excellent class of
yeast,and, moreover, keeps well. The alcohol obtained from
it leaves nothing to be desired, so that this flour may be
introduced as an article of commerce, and employed without
any special preparation.”
Satisfactory experiments have also. been made in some
breweries where 20 per cent. of malt has been replaced by the flakes
and flour of Bananas. The flavour of the beer was not altered and the
quantity of liquid was increased, and the malt was replaced by a less
expensive substance.
20
Experiments are being made in which the proportion of Banana
flour is increased. One of the great Belgian brewers writes :—
“ These flakes were macerated in the vat with the malt, and
the result was much superior to that of maize, and the flavour
of the must irreproachable ; the drainage of the mixture was a
little difficult at first, but after being stirred a second time the
draining proceeded rapidly ; briefly, the use of the flakes may be
considered both adv antageous and easy in brewing.”
Different Banana flours, and notably that prepared specially for the
manufacture of glucose, have been tried in some glucoseries. Although
difficulties were met with in the manufacture, principally with respect
to discolouration, it has been shown that the glucose obtained from it
has a good flavour, 1s very sweet, and slightly. aromatic.
It is highly pr obable that a special study of the subject will surmount
the slight difficulties which at first presented themselves in the use of
this new product in glucoseries.
Very nourishing bread has been made from equal proportions of
Bananas and Wheat and Rye flour, and even from a mixture of two-
thirds Bananas and one-third ordinary flour.
A sweet Banana flour having an agreeable flavour of fresh fruit
appears to be specially suitable for cakes and biscuits.
PRESERVING MANGOES.
As the cultivation of the Mango is rapidly increasing in the Colony
the following may be found useful by some of the growers. It is taken
from the Jamaica Bulletin of the Botanical Department, and has been
written by Mr. E. M. Shelton, of the Department of Agriculture,
Queensland :— :
Canning.—-After peeling, the fruit is separated from the stones by
slicing into pieces of convenient size. These should be stewed fora
few “an ates only, before pouring into the cans, in syrups strong or weak
in sugar to suit taste, or the fruit may be conlet in the can thie the
syrup as before. T here may be a difference of opinion as to the
palatableness of canned Mangoes.