Bulb very large, exceeding in size that of the Jersey Shallot; which variety it much resembles in form and color, and in being tender, decaying early, and sometimes running to seed. It is, however, not quite so early; and the leaves are longer and more glaucous. Flavor mild and pleasant.
At the time of harvesting, the bulbs should be long exposed to the sun, in order that they may be thoroughly dried before packing away. "The bulbs are slow in forming, and the worst keepers, as, when stored, they soon begin to sprout."
This variety, and also the Jersey Shallot, closely resemble the Onion. It is possible they may constitute a distinct species.
Large Shallot.
Échalote grosse. Vil.
Bulbs about two inches in diameter at the base, elongated, and enclosed in a brownish-yellow skin, or pellicle; leaves fifteen to eighteen inches high.
This variety, in size, much exceeds that of the Common or Small Shallot; and, though later in ripening, is nevertheless the first to be found in the market, as it forms its bulbs early in the season. Its keeping properties are inferior to the last named.
Long Keeping.
This resembles the Common Shallot; but is considered superior to that variety in its keeping properties, and in being less subject to the attack of the maggot. It is said that the variety may be kept two years.