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39. Cassava 



Manihot 



Several varieties of cassava are found in the Caribbean. 

 CAUTION: In some varieties the tubers contain a poisonous sub- 

 stance that is destroyed by heat. In other varieties there is no 

 poisonous principle present. The tubers should always be very 

 thoroughly cooked before they are eaten. The young leaves 

 may be boiled and eaten like spinach. Commonly planted in 

 the Caribbean lowlands the large tuberous roots of this slender 

 tree look much like sweet potatoes. Cassava is one of the im- 

 portant food plants of the earth. In many regions of South 

 America it is the most important starchy food. Throughout 

 the Caribbean this plant is known as yuca. 



