ESCULENT ROOTS OK AMERICA. 



167 



far acclimatized as to be the object of successful field- 

 culture in the south of France. 



Yam Dioscorea sativa. 



The YAM Dioscorea sativa is a native of the 

 East; and is supposed to have been transplanted 

 thence to the West Indies, as it has never been found 

 growing wild in any part of America; while in the 

 island of Ceylon, and on the coast of Malabar, it 

 flourishes in the woods with spontaneous and luxu- 

 riant growth. It is very extensively cultivated in 

 Africa, Asia, and America, for its root, which is 

 nutritious and of good flavour, and is used either 

 roasted or boiled as a substitute for bread. This root 

 is farinaceous, and resembles the potato, but is of a 

 closer texture. 



