Fig. 160.—EGYPTIAN RUSSET.
This capital dessert fruit was found in Southern Illinois and introduced to his fellow pomologists of the State Society by Jno. M. Hunter, nurseryman, of Ashley. Its origin is unknown, but supposed, like the pioneers of the region, to have come from Tennessee, or some other Southern State.
Tree symmetrical, moderately vigorous, productive; Twigs slender.
Fruit medium, regular, conical, truncated; Surface smooth, light yellow, covered with fine russet, obscurely striped gray.
Basin wide, wavy, plaited, green; Eye medium to large, open.
Cavity acute, wavy; Stem medium.
Core irregular, closed, scarcely meeting the eye; Seeds large, plump; Flesh very tender, fine grained, juicy; Flavor sub-acid, aromatic, rich, pear-like; Quality very best; Use, dessert; Season, December and January, until March. Like other russets disposed to wilt if too much exposed to the air.
Poughkeepsie Russet.
ENGLISH RUSSET.