[287] Vicia sativa of Linnæus.
[288] Or orobus, the Ervum ervilia of Linnæus.
[289] It is thought by many that the ervum is unwholesome, being productive of muscular weakness. The blade of it is said to act as a poison on pigs. However, we find the farina, or meal, extolled by some persons for its medicinal qualities; and if we are to trust to the advertisements in the newspapers, it is rising rapidly in esteem. See B. xxii. c. [73].
[290] From Columella, B. ii. c. 11.
[291] Trigonella fœnum Græcum of Linnæus.
[292] “Scarificatio.”
[293] Probably the Secale cereale of Linnæus, cultivated rye.
[294] It is now held in high esteem in many parts of Europe.
[295] Rye has no bitterness, and this assertion has led some to doubt if it is identical with the “secale” of Pliny.
[296] Perhaps identical with the Vicia cracca of Linnæus.