62 THE BOOK OF RARER VEGETABLES 



abundant supplies of water in dry weather. The 

 tuberous variety is very distinct and but little grown in this 

 country. The edible portion is the tuber that forms 

 at the root, not the fruit, as in the first named varieties. 

 I have seen this variety grown in a few gardens, but it has 

 a very peculiar flavour when cooked ; indeed some may 



and do like them who have 

 travelled abroad, but they 

 certainly will never become 

 common in our gardens, as 

 the weight of crop does not 

 make them profitable. This 

 plant is a perennial and a 

 native of Peru and the tubers 

 produced are showy, being 

 yellow and red and not un- 

 like a Potato, but usually 

 smaller at one end. In South 

 America this is a favourite 

 dish, but I think much care 

 must be expended upon their 

 cooking, and in the countries 

 referred to they are frozen 

 after being cooked and are 

 then a favourite dish, indeed 

 they are a standing dish in 

 hot weather and much sought 



after as a light refreshment. The culture is simple. 

 The plant is a climber and requires support. It is 

 best grown from eyes lik% the Potato, as one good- 

 sized tuber will make several sets. In dry soils it may 

 be allowed to grow on the soil, but in others, stakes 

 should be given. It requires a fairly light, rich soil, and 

 it is best planted in the spring, the sets being placed 4 

 feet apart, and it is fit for use in October, as at that time 

 the leaves will begin to turn colour. I have seen this 



TUBEROUS-ROOTED NASTURTIUM 

 ( Tubers, half natural size) 



