Abstract

Nadam (G. obtusifolium) is a constituent of the group of cottons commercially called 'Salems. One would infer from the name (nadam-country) that it might have been the cotton in general cultivation prior to the spread of annual cottons like Uppam and Karungunni. It is generally found in Coimbatore district mixed with an American type of cotton viz., Bourbon' (G. Purpurascens). Both the types are perennials and stand on the field for more than 4 to 5 years. Bourbon is named after the Isle of that name, where it is supposed to have been introduced by the French from the West Indies. It was first introduced in India during 1820 from Mauritius by Mr. Heath of Messrs. Fischer and Co. Nadam is a tall shrub about 6 feet high branches arising at acute angles with the stem, with small leaves, yellow flowers, lint of short staple (6/8 to 7/8"), slightly adhering to the boll and strongly attached to the seeds. The ginning percentage is also as low as 23. Compared to this, Bourbon, is definitely better. Bourbon plants are about 3 feet high with large reddish leaves, creamy flowers, naked seeds and white lint definitely longer (nearly an inch) than Nadam separating readily from the bolls necessitating gathering immediately after bursting. This last character of this cotton is said to be one of the reasons for its falling out of favour with the ryots. Its ginning percentage (24- 25%) is, however, a little better than that of Nadam.

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