This is undoubtedly the finest of the Fir tribe. I am indebted to the kindness of my friend Dr. Walhch for
excellent specimens of it. It was discovered by Captain W. S. Webb, a distinguished traveller, and a zealous
investigator of natural history, deservedly known for his admirable survey of the Himalaya Alps. I have, at
various times, received seeds of it from Dr. Wallich, but their vegetable power has always been destroyed.
It is very much to be regretted that no plants of this splendid fir have been raised in this country, as it would
prove a most valuable acquisition to our lawns, and likewise a tree of great utility, from its fine timber, which
even equals in the texture of its grain and in odour the Bermudas cedar (Junyerus Bermudiam, Linn.)
I have received a veiy fine specimen of the timber from my often-mentioned friend Dr. Wallich. The seeds
of this species possess a greater portion of resin, and a stronger turpentine smell, than any other with which
I am acquainted. . „
I shall subjoin the following highly interesting extracts, respecting this Fir, from letters received from
Captain Webb, during his residence in Nepal, and by Dr. Wallich transmitted to me. “ Tins purple-coned
Pine is called Oumur. It attains a height of 80 or 90 feet, with a diameter of the stem near the ground of
8 to 4 feet. The cone about 3^ inches long, and U inch in diameter, is produced on the extremity of the
shoots. The leaves are about one inch long, of a beautiful bright green, having a white stripe along the centre.
The wood is used for planes. The fruit, in an incipient state, is attached to the specimens, and is said to
yield at fall growth an Indigo or purple pigment by expression. The silvery hue of its bark, the beautiful
contrast of the leaves with the rich purple of the cone, glittering with globules of transparent resin,
produce in combination one of the most striking objects which can well be imagined; it is entitled to
precedence for ornamental purposes, and would, I doubt not, be thought a desirable acquisition in England.”
EXPLANATION OF TABLE 2.
B. B, B. Branches hearing male catkins.
C. Female catkin.
D. Scale of the female catkin.
E. E. Anthers.
F. Leaf.
G. Portion of a ripe cone shewing the rachis, to which the scales are
attached.
H. Scale of the cones, shewing the seeds.
I. Seed.