The Angry Tree.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 7 August 1914, Page 2

The Angry Tree.

In Idaho there exists a species of the acacia tree which is entitled to be classed as one of the wonders of plant life. The tree attains a height of about eight feet. When full grown it closes its leaves together in coils each day at sunset, and curls, its twigs to the shape of pigtails. When the tree has thus settled itself for its night's sleep, says ' Harper's Weekly,' it is said that if touched it will flutter as if agitated or impatient at the disturbance. It is averred that the oftener the foliage is molested, the more violent will become the shaking of the branches. Finally, it is further alleged, if tbe shaking is continued, the .tree will at length emit a nauseating odour quite sufficient to induce a headache in the case of the person disturbing the tree.

In Idaho it is called the "angry tree," and it is said that it was discovered by men who, on making camp for the night, placed one end of a canvas covering over one of the sensitive bushes, using it for a

support. Immednf^ely the tree began to jerk its branches sharply. The motion continued, with increasing "nervousness," until at last came a sickening odour that drove the tired i campers to a more friendly location.

Curiosity prompted an investigation. One of the angry trees" was dug up and thrown to one side. It is said that immediately upon being removed from the ground the tree opened its leaves, its twigs lost their pigtails, aud for something over one nnd a half hours the outraged branches showed their indignation by a series of quakings, which grew weaker and weaker, and ceased when the foliage had become limp and withered.