CHAP. 15.—THE FIG-TREE OF CYPRUS.
The fig-tree that grows in Crete, and is known there as the
Cyprian fig, [Note] bears some resemblance to the preceding one; for
it bears fruit upon the trunk of the tree, and upon the branches
as well, when they have attained a certain degree of thickness.
This tree, however, sends forth buds without any leaves, [Note] but
similar in appearance to a root. The trunk of the tree is
similar to that of the poplar, and the leaves to those of the elm.
It produces four crops in the year, and germinates the same
number of times, but its green [Note] fruit will not ripen unless an
incision is made in it to let out the milky juice. The sweetness of the fruit and the appearance of the inside are in all
respects similar to those of the fig, and in size it is about as
large as a sorb-apple.