62 THE BOOK OF RARER VEGETABLES 
abundant supplies of water in dry weather. The 
tuberous variety is very distinct and but little grown in this 
country. The edible portion is the tuber that forms 
at the root, not the fruit, as in the first named varieties. 
I have seen this variety grown in a few gardens, but it has 
a very peculiar flavour when cooked ; indeed some may 
and do like them who have 
travelled abroad, but they 
certainly will never become 
common in our gardens, as 
the weight of crop does not 
make them profitable. This 
plant is a perennial and a 
native of Peru and the tubers 
produced are showy, being 
yellow and red and not un- 
like a Potato, but usually 
smaller at one end. In South 
America this is a favourite 
dish, but I think much care 
must be expended upon their 
cooking, and in the countries 
referred to they are frozen 
after being cooked and are 
then a favourite dish, indeed 
they are a standing dish in 
hot weather and much sought 
after as a light refreshment. The culture is simple. 
The plant is a climber and requires support. It is 
best grown from eyes like the Potato, as one good- 
sized tuber will make several sets. In dry soils it may 
be allowed to grow on the soil, but in others, stakes 
should be given. It requires a fairly light, rich soil, and 
it is best planted in the spring, the sets being placed 4 
feet apart, and it is fit for use in October, as at that time 
the leaves will begin to turn colour. I have seen this 
TUBEROUS-ROOTED NASTURTIUM 
( T icbers, half natural size) 
