Page:The Olive Its Culture in Theory and Practice.djvu/31

Rh that disturb the uniform distribution of the fronds. Its leaves are narrower at the insertion than at the apex, of a beautiful green on the upper side and a strong white on the lower. In deep and rich soils it acquires great stature. Fogs, cold and variations of temperature do it harm, so much so that it loves protected sites, and the half hill, and in districts most exposed to frosts prefers the west and northwest exposures to defend itself against the danger of sudden thaws. It is immoderately fecund, to the degree that it buds even in the midst of blossoming. It retains its fruit badly, especially in wind or prolonged heat.

The berries are roundish, fleshy and richer in oil, than any other variety, on which account in the country about Calci, at the foot of the Pisan mountains, the people call them "frantojani" or, oil press olives. They commence to mature from November and December and turn to black and winey black.

This variety is most cultivated in the districts outside of Lucca and Pisa in the best exposures and sheltered spots where the soil is rich. It is as delicate as the Razzo but less fecund and the berry less oily.

It is distinguished from the preceding (see Plate IV) by its numerous long, subtle and flexible twigs, so that its top is rather spread out and makes the appearance of a willow. It becomes a large tree and like the Razzo needs little pruning.

The berries are larger than those of the Razzo, blown up at the extremity, curved like a bow on one side, and for oleosity stand next to the preceding. In comparison with the weight of the nut the flesh is less developed than the Morajolo. It matures at the same time as the Razzo, taking first a lilac color then a wine red and even black.

This olive prevails in Liguria. It is sensitive to cold and fogs, so it prefers the low hills with a sunny exposure and mild temperature