The Tree of the Most Rapid Growth

1895

The eucalyptus, a genus of myrtacae, grows to a greater height in a shorter time than is the case with any other known tree. The eucalyptus has increased its height by as much as 24 feet in the short space of three months and attains rapidly both a great height and a large circumference. These trees form the preponderant and most characteristic vegetation of the Australian forest, where they are famed for their great heights, usually ranging from 200 feet to 400 feet, while one has been recorded as having attained nearly 500 feet, with a circumference of 81 feet. An oak tree in three years grows 2 feet 10-1/2 inches; a larch, 8 feet 7-1/2 inches; an elm, 8 feet 3 inches; a beech, 1 foot 8 inches; a poplar, 6 feet; a willow; 9 feet 3 inches. An elm attains full growth in 150 years and lives to 500 or 600. Ash is full grown in 100 years, while it takes 200 years for oak and mahogany to reach full height. — Brooklyn Eagle.


Indian Corn

There is a miniature Indian corn grown in Brazil. The ears are not larger than a little finger, and the grains are the size of mustard seeds.


Catherine II

Catherine II of Russia had her husband assassinated, and from his death to her own ruled alone.