Leaves comparatively large, rounded at the ends, thick and succulent. In foliage and general character, it is similar to some of the round-seeded varieties; but is much hardier, and slower in running to seed. It is commonly known as "Winter Spinach," and principally cultivated for use during this portion of the year. The seeds are planted towards the last of August, in drills a foot apart, and nearly an inch in depth. When well up, the plants should be thinned to four or five inches apart in the drills; and, if the weather is favorable, they will be stocky and vigorous at the approach of severe weather. Before the closing-up of the ground, lay strips of joist or other like material between the rows, cover all over with clean straw, and keep the bed thus protected until the approach of spring or the crop has been gathered for use.
Lettuce-Leaved Spinach.
Epinard à Feuille de Laitue. Vil. Epinard Gaudry.
Leaves very large, on short stems, rounded, deep-green, with a bluish tinge, less erect than those of the other varieties, often blistered on the surface, and of thick substance. It is neither so early nor so hardy as some others; but it is slow in the development of its flower-stalk, and there are few kinds more productive or of better quality. The seeds are round and smooth. For a succession, a sowing should be made at intervals of two weeks.
"A variety called 'Gaudry,' if not identical, is very similar to this."
Sorrel-Leaved Spinach.
Leaves of medium size, halberd-formed, deep-green, thick, and fleshy. A hardy and productive sort, similar to the Yellow or White Sorrel-leaved, but differing in the deeper color of its stalks and leaves.
Summer or Round-Leaved Spinach.
Round Dutch. Epinard de Hollande. Vil.
Leaves large, thick, and fleshy, rounded at the ends, and entire, or nearly entire, on the borders.