THE 



VEGETABLE CULTIVATOR. 



1. ARTICHOKE. CYNARA. 



THE generic term cynara is supposed to have 

 been so called by the ancients, on account of its 

 ash-coloured leaves; and the word choke is no doubt 

 taken from that part of the head which is left after 

 the bottom part of the scales is eaten, and which, 

 if accidentally swallowed, produces a sensation simi- 

 lar to choking. 



This vegetable, which affords a pleasant and nou- 

 rishing diet, is a native of Africa, and also of some 

 of the warmest parts of Italy, whence it was first 

 brought to this country in the reign of Henry the 

 Eighth, in the year 1548; and, from the moisture 

 of our climate, and the attention bestowed upon 

 its cultivation, the size and flavour were so much 

 improved, that the Italians sent for plants from 

 England, supposing them to be of another variety. 

 They were, however, mistaken, for the plants soon 

 returned to their original size and quality, upon 

 being restored to their native climate. 



