Soil and Cultivation.—Both of the varieties require a well-manured soil. The seeds of the Dwarf Couve Tronchuda may be sown early in frames, and the plants afterwards set in the open ground; or the sowing may be made, in May or June, where the plants are to remain. They should be two feet apart in each direction.
Fringed Tronchuda.
Stem short; leaf-stems thicker and larger than those of the Common Couve Tronchuda, but not so fleshy and succulent. The leaves expand towards their extremities into a spatulate form, the edges being regularly lobed and curled. They are of a glaucous or bluish green color, and form a sort of loose heart, or head, at the centre of the plant. Its only superiority over the common varieties consists in its more hardy character.
The Fringed Tronchuda is, however, very succulent, and of good quality; and is cultivated to some extent in France, particularly in the vicinity of Paris.
White-Ribbed Tronchuda.
White-ribbed Avilès Cabbage. White-ribbed Portugal Cabbage. Chou à Côtes blanches d'Avilès.
This variety nearly resembles the Dwarf Portugal Cabbage, or Dwarf Couve Tronchuda, if it is not identical. It has white ribs, and forms a close heart.
It should be planted, and in all respects treated, as the Dwarf Portugal Cabbage.