A PRINCE OF THE VEGETABLE KINGDOM.

Otago Witness, Issue 2804, 11 December 1907, Page 10

A PRINCE OF THE VEGETABLE KINGDOM.

At Gleneairn, near Oamaru, there is standing in the open borders a collection of palms which were planted out of pots seven years ago. One of these palms is at present in bloom, and we believe it to be tho first of its kind to blossom in North Otago. The variety is Chamaerops Portunei (Traohycarpus exoelsus). It stands 6±ft high, and the stem lias been cleared to a height of 3£ft by cutting off eight rows of large fan leaves (these being slightly discoloured at the tips), leaving distinct cicatrices. The bole is cylindrical, much tapered, and covered with a network of coarse fibrous tissues. The top is crowned with a profusion of large fan leaves of a dark green colour, and under this head has been produced four spathes or sheathe, and from each of these proceeds a branching apadix, on which are disposed numerous panigles of curious saffron yellow flowers, which consist of a three-parted- calyx and corolla, with from six to nine stamens, connate at the base. The plant is a- native of Northern China, and should ultimately reach the height of 15ft. The Chinese utilise these palms by drying and trimming the leaves for fans. They also make brobms and hats from the leaves. The Chanuerop palms when small and in pots make beautiful table decorations. They are not much affected by the variable tempera* ture of rooms, -.and the gas does not appear to injure_them. — [Prom a correspondent.]