Ben. Bene.

No. 232. - Bene is said to have been introduced from Africa. It is a hardy annual plant, much used in the Southern States. The seeds are used for food (being first parched), stewed with meats, and are also used for puddings - the same as rice. An oil is extracted from the seed, which does not easily become rancid, and is used for softening and whitening the skin. The leaves, if immersed in a tumbler of water, will convert it into a mucilaginous drink, very beneficial in cases of cholera-infantum and diarrhoea.

Culture

No. 233. - Sow in spring, as soon as the weather is settled, in rich, sandy soil, carefully prepared, and allow the plants to stand two feet apart, keeping the ground loose and free from weeds. The plant will yield a greater amount of herbage if the top is broken or cut off when three-quarters grown.

Bi-Formed Leaved

No. 234. - The plant is large. The lower leaves are two-parted, while those of the upper part of the stalk are oval and entire.

Oval Leaved

No. 235. - The stem is about two feet high, with a few short branches. The leaves are oblong, and entire on the borders.

Tri-Fide Leaved

No. 236. - This is taller and more vigorous than the preceding kinds. The leaves are tri-fide, or three-parted.