38 THE BOOK OF RARER VEGETABLES 
kinds. The Black variety is one of the darkest colours 
grown, but the colour does not affect the quality. The 
small Violette naine is a pretty fruit, excellent for pot 
culture, and there are several white or cream coloured 
varieties. These vary in shape, and I have seen a 
reddish fruit but 
not grown it. 
They are cer- 
tainly a most in- 
teresting class of 
plants, and well 
deserving of at- 
tention. At one 
time they were 
only considered 
novelties, but 
there is no doubt 
whatever but that 
they are valuable 
for food, being a 
wholesome and 
delicious vege- 
table, and cer- 
t ai n 1 y wo r t h 
extended cultiva- 
tion. I have seen 
them grown for 
decorative purposes in anything but a happy condition. 
The plants, once they receive a check, are very sub- 
ject to red spiders. This points to the need of 
ample moisture in the house, as the pest will not 
thrive under this condition. Another evil is allowing 
the plants to be starved or pot bound. The best 
results are secured from plants grown in frames in 
rich soil planted out. In the Paris market gardens a 
great deal of attention is given to these plants; and 
LONG PURPLE EGG PLANT 
( One-fifth natural size) 
