501. Importance

This annual is a native of the southwestern United States. The coarse plants have a spreading habit and produce fruit of the peculiar shape shown in Figure 86. The young tender fruits are used to a very limited extent for pickling.

502. Culture

Sowings are sometimes made in the open, but it is much better to start the plants in hotbeds or greenhouses. They are tender to cold and thrive best in warm soils and sunny exposures. The plants should be set 3 to 4 feet apart each way.