50 FOOD FOR THE TROPICS 



basella-kira (Malay). The flowers of this species are rose- 

 coloured. 

 Much cultivated throughout India as a potherb. 



Luffa 



{Luffa acutangulct) 



A native of tropical India and Malaya, and called Torai, 

 etc. (Hindustani) ; Pikunkai (Tamil) ; Burkai (Telegu) ; 

 Djinji, or Kelula-manis (Malay) ; Tha-bwot-kha-wai (Bur- 

 mah) ; and Papengaille (Reunion). The fruit is produced 

 during the rainy season. Sow from March to June in lines 

 5 feet apart ; supports should be given to the young plants, 

 when 4 inches high, for them to climb upon. 



If the fruit is longer than 4 inches it is useless for the 

 table, but, if young, is highly esteemed, and considered one 

 of the best indigenous vegetables. It is peeled, boiled, and 

 dressed with oil, pepper, and salt ; also used in curries. 

 Balfour states that the leaves are a favourite potherb, and 

 considered very wholesome. 



{Luffa cegyptica) 



A native of India, and called Ghia-tarui, etc. (Hindu- 

 stani) ; Guttibira, etc. (Telegu) ; Tha-bwot (Burmah) ; Luff 

 (Arabic) ; Konyikon (West Africa) ; and Estropajo (Vene- 

 zuela). Cultivated like the last, but the fruit is smaller, 

 and used similarly in curries, etc. It is much cultivated 

 during the rains, and is considered a delicious vegetable. 

 Luffa Petolu is called Courge Torchonin in French Guiana. 



