s
distinct from all others. The leaves are about ten inches long, of a
glaucous or sea green color, thick and fleshy, deeply cut or divided on
the margin, and spread regularly from the centre of the plant in the
form of a rosette. When fully developed, the plant is two feet and a
half high; separating into numerous branches, which terminate in large
purple flowers.

The seeds, which are of a brownish-black color, are sown in drills
fifteen inches apart; and the plants should be thinned to six inches
apart in the drills.

The leaves are eaten as salad; but, when so used, they should be
blanched, either by earthing up or by tying the plant together. They are
also sometimes eaten boiled as Spinach or Endive.

SPINACH LETTUCE. _Trans._

Oak-leaved Lettuce. Lactuca quercina.

The leaves of this species are six inches long, pale yellowish-green,
lyrate, with obtuse and entire divisions: when fully developed, they
somewhat resemble those of the oak, as implied by the name. The plants
form no heart, or head; and are never cultivated singly like the Cabbage
or Cos lettuces. The leaves are produced in moderate abundance, and are
crisp and well flavored.

The seeds should be sown, like those of the Endive-leaved, thickly, in
drills; and, when the lower leaves are four or five inches long, they
may be cut for use. If not taken off too closely, the plants will afford
a second cutting. The seeds are sown early with other spring salads.

* * * * *

MADRAS RADISH.

Raphanus sp.

The roots of the Madras Radish are sometimes eaten while they are quite
young and small; but they soon become fibrous, strong flavored, and
unfit for use. The plant is generally cultivated for its pods, which
sometimes measure ten or twelve inches in length: these are solid,
crisp, and tender, and, while young, are used for pickling and for
salad; being much superior for these purposes to those of the Common
Radish.

When cultivated for its pods, the seeds should be sown in drills two
feet apart, and the plants thinned to nine inches in the drills.

* * * * *

MALLOW, CURLED-LEAVED.

Malva crispa.

An annual plant, introduced from Europe, and occasionally found growing
spontaneously in the vicinity of gardens where it has been once
cultivated. The stem is frequently more than six feet in height; the
leaves are nearly five inches in diameter, smooth, and of a rich green
color,