ANOTHER EXPORT ASKED FOR.

Lyttelton Times, Volume VIII, Issue 498, 12 August 1857, Page 3

ANOTHER EXPORT ASKED FOR.

Mr. Scheidel, of this city, has just received a letter from Sydney, the writer of which says, "Some friends of ours in London have written us to send them from New Zealand two or three tons of ' Grass Tree Gum' (or Gum Acroides). This gum, of which we enclose sample, is said to grow in quantities in New Zealand. It must be of light, clean quality—not drossy or unclean. It is preferred in globules—such as the sample; but it will do, also, in irregular pieces like Kauri gum, provided it is clean. Now, this is only a trial; but our friends, if pleased, may order hundreds of tons."

The letter also contains directions to advertise for supplies of this gum—a direction with which Mr. Scheidel will doubtless comply; and we shall be glad to learn that the advertisement, and the notice we thus take of the matter, may have the effect of adding another to the long list of our as yet undeveloped native exports.

Tbe Grass Tree, we believe, chiefly grows in low swampy places; and may be known by its peculiar stumpy stem covered with a kind of grass. When cut, we are told, the gum exudes plentifully; and judging from the sample shown by Mr. Scheidel, it has an aromatic quality. For what purpose it is wanted, the Sydney writer does not state; probably f_r a fine varnish. If so, and if it prove worth the while of one house to order hundreds of tons, We may—provided a regular supply can be insured— soon see New Zealand Grass Tree Gum commanding a good quotation in the London Price Lists. With a view to this, we shall be happy to receive information as to the localities where this plant or shrub can be found in quantities, and as to the best season of year for tapping for the gum.