Page images
PDF
EPUB
[graphic][merged small]

G. P. W. Collection.

PLATE XXXVIII

Citrus Japonica.
Var. "Hazara.”

CHINESE ORANGE.

This familiar and highly ornamental tree, commonly known as the Chinese orange, was very early introduced to these Islands. It is well named Hazara (meaning thousand of fruit), as it is one of the most prolific of the citrus family, and both green and ripe fruit in great quantities may be found on the same tree at almost any season of the year. The tree is of medium size, and the small, shiny leaves have short petioles. It is generaly thornless. The flowers are white and fragrant. The round fruit is a deep yellow, and its smooth skin is very loosely attached. The pulp is also a deep yellow and contains many seeds, and the sour juice is very plentiful. The tree is hardy and free from disease and scale. Propagation is by seed.

[graphic][merged small]

G. P. W. Collection.

Citrus Japonica.

KUMQUAT.

PLATE XXXIX

The Kumquat is a native of Cochin-China, and is also cultivated in Japan, Florida, and California. It is a low-growing bush or shrub, having smooth, angular branches, and in both the round and oval varieties the dark foliage is dense and beautiful. It is a very prolific bearer. Its leaves are small, lanceolate, slightly serrate, pointed or blunt and wedge-shaped at the base. The small, white flowers come solitary or in clusters, the fruit varies in size from a large gooseberry to that of a pigeon's egg, and is either ovate, oblong, or spherical. It is 5 to 6 celled, has very little pulp, and contains many seeds. The pulp is somewhat sour, especially in the round varieties; and the smooth, thick, yellow rind is aromatic and sweet; the Kumquat is generally preserved whole, and those prepared by the Chinese are very delicious.

This ornamental citrus tree is not often seen in our gardens, for it is subject to scale, and to the mealy bug, which destroy the flowers and stunt the fruit. The Kumquat comes true to seed, and may also be propagated by grafting and budding.

[graphic][merged small]
« PreviousContinue »