CULTURAL VARIETIES I9 
varieties, is very productive, and grows to the largest 
3ize. In Philadelphia it is much sought after, and brings 
the highest prices. 
Conover’s Colossal (Van Siclen’s Colossal ).—Origi- 
uated with Abraham Van Siclen, of Long Island, N. Y., 
and was introduced by S. B. Conover, a commision 
merchant of West Washington Market, New York 
City, some thirty years ago. The superiority of this 
variety over all other kinds known at that time made 
it soon supplant all other varieties, and it is to this day 
better and more favorably known than any other sort. 
Columbian Mammoth White.—This was introduced 
by D. M. Ferry & Co., in 1893. The immense shoots 
are clear white, and, in favorable weather, remain so 
until three or four inches above the surface, without 
earthing up or any other artificial blanching. The 
crown or bud of the young stalk is considerably smaller 
than the part just below it, thus further distinguishing 
the variety. All but a very few of the seedlings will 
produce clear white shoots, and the green ones can be 
readily distinguished and rejected when planting the 
permanent bed. 
Donalds Elmira.— Originated by A. Donald, 
Elmira, N. Y., and was first introduced by Johnson & 
Stokes, Philadelphia, Pa. This is characterized by 
the delicate green color of its stems, different from any 
other kind. Its stalks are very tender and succulent, 
while its size is all that can be desired. 
Eclipse (Dreer’s Eclipse).—A light green mammoth 
strain of excellent quality and attractive appearance. 
The stalks, not rarely, measure two inches in diameter, 
