The thin part of the leaves is sometimes put into soups, together with sorrel, to correct the acidity of the latter.
Green or Common Leaf-Beet.
Stalks and leaves large, green; the roots are tough and fibrous, and measure little more than an inch in diameter; leaves tender, and of good quality.
If a sowing be made as soon in spring as the frost will permit, another in June, and a third the last of July, they will afford a constant supply of tender greens, nearly or quite equal to Spinach. For this purpose, the rows need be but a foot apart.
Large-Ribbed Curled.
Curled Leaf-beet.
Stalks white; leaves pale yellowish-green, with broad mid-ribs, large nerves, and a blistered surface like some of the Savoys. It may be grown as a substitute for Spinach, in the manner directed for the Common or Green-leaved variety.
Large-Ribbed Scarlet Brazilian.
Red Stalk Leaf-beet. Poirée à Carde rouge. Vil.