APPENDIX. 
189 
with pieces of meat; which preparation they consider so 
delicious that they devoutly wish it may form one of the 
viands of Paradise.” The onions of warm countries are 
immeasurably superior to those of colder climes, being larger 
and milder in flavor. This vegetable possesses healing 
qualities, and many a mother can testify to the efficacy of 
onion sirup. 
Petunia. 
The different varieties of this showy flower, so ornamental 
in the house or garden, come to us from South America. 
They are annuals out of doors, but perennial under shelter. 
Purple Loosestrife. Lythrum salicaria. 
In July, around the edge of wet meadows, we find a tall 
plant with long, loose spikes of very delicate and brilliant 
flowers. The color is a fine purple, tinged with red, which 
has obtained for it in some places the name of Jireweed. This 
is the purple loosestrife. Transplanted to the garden, it is 
a fine perennial border flower. 
