When observing the land and trees absorbed by the invasive kudzu vine in the Southeast or fields covered by Himalayan Blackberry on the West Coast, it’s easy to see why environmentalists dislike aggressive non-native plants. The sheer enormity of them makes stewards of the land feel they must wage a war to defend the native … Read more
From the backyard in an urban landscape to the shady understory of the forest floor, wild edible plants abound. In truth, we are surrounded by food and medicine that is readily available to us – the key is becoming familiar with such plants, one by one. One lovely plant to become acquainted with is the … Read more
Mallow is a wild edible highly esteemed for its various food uses, and chances are, it’s already growing in your backyard. This hollyhock relative is widespread across the United States and is a wonderful edible plant to become acquainted with. While there are several mallow plants, this article specifically covers Malva neglecta, which is commonly … Read more
When I was first told black nightshade berries were edible, my first reaction was skepticism and disbelief. I think this a common reaction, as the word “nightshade” is riddled with fear and lore as it’s believed to be a deadly poisonous plant. While this is true for some species in the nightshade family, several others … Read more
In late summer or early fall, goldenrod graces meadows and fields with its bright golden blooms. As most other flowers fade away with the season’s turning, goldenrod opens its lovely blossoms, much to the relief of nectar-hungry pollinators. Goldenrod is one of the last plants to flower before the fullness of Autumn overtakes the land. … Read more
Peculiar and other-worldly, Spilanthes delights the senses. As a flower, you probably assume it possesses a captivating scent, but that’s not where its uniqueness lies. The flower itself is certainly uncommon, which adds to its intrigue. But the taste – more like the incredible mouth sensation it produces upon only the tiniest nibble- sets this … Read more
It’s amazing how many wild and free foods are available to us. You may be surprised to hear that many of the scornful weeds you have growing in your backyard are edible and medicinal. That’s right; with a keen eye and plant identification knowledge in your tool belt, you can start foraging for food and medicine without … Read more
A well-loved tropical vine, known as contribo herb, is highly regarded for its various medicinal purposes. Across Central and South America, this unique plant has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions and is still used in a similar fashion today. While many locals will praise this natural healer and online … Read more
Chamomile is well known for its pleasant and comforting taste as an herbal tea, but did you know it’s also an excellent addition to the garden? Just imagine dainty white and yellow flowers swaying in the breeze, nuzzled between clambering cucumber vines and vibrant green lettuce heads. Not only do its lovely little flowers create … Read more
Ferns are one of nature’s treasures with their feathery leaves filling the understory of forests across North, Central, and South America. While ferns are a well-known plant, some ferns stand out amongst their relatives. This isn’t due to their appearance or stature; rather, it’s because of their incredible health benefits as medicinal herbs. There are … Read more
