This article is about how you can turn your indoor space into a year-round edible garden by starting the best edible perennials indoors this winter. Growing your own food doesn’t have to stop when it gets cold outside—perennials give you a sustainable, long-lasting source of fresh flavors all year. “Plant once, harvest forever—your indoor garden…
Scientific name: Helianthus tuberosus L. Family: Asteraceae Jerusalem artichoke—a plant with a quirky name, a rich history, and some seriously cool culinary and health benefits. You might be wondering, “Is it related to artichokes or from Jerusalem?” The answer is a fun bit of botanical trivia: it’s neither. But don’t worry—that won’t stop us from exploring everything from…
This article is about the rich world of indigenous plants native to North America and how these plants are shaping not just ecosystems but also economies and communities today. “Nature’s gifts, once quietly rooted in tradition, are now blooming with new opportunity and respect — reminding us that what’s native is also highly valuable.” – The…
Scientific name: Sechium edule (Jacq.) Swartz Family: Cucurbitaceae Chayote—sometimes called mirliton or vegetable pear—is a delicious, versatile squash-like plant that’s easy to grow and even easier to love. In this Plant Compendium entry, we’ll break down everything you need to know in a friendly, accessible way (but still backed by research!). You’ll learn its history, how to grow…
This article is about the botanical food traditions of Thanksgiving. If you’re someone who loves uncovering the stories behind the foods on your plate, curious about the plants that shaped our holiday traditions, or just want to know where that Thanksgiving feast really comes from, you might wonder: How did corn, pumpkin, cranberries, and even…
Scientific name: Vanilla planifolia Jacks. ex Andrews Family: Orchidaceae Vanilla is more than just a flavor—it’s a fascinating plant with a rich history, unique biology, and so many ways to use it, especially in cooking and health. In this Plant Compendium entry, we’ll explore everything from how vanilla grows to why it’s so prized in your kitchen and…
This article is about the fascinating journey of cranberries—from their roots as a native plant used by Indigenous peoples of North America to their status today as a celebrated superfood. “From humble marshes to your smoothie glass, cranberries charge history with health.” – The Economic Botanist If you’re someone who loves exploring the stories behind the…
Scientific name: Panax ginseng (C.A. Mey.) Baill. Family: Araliaceae Asian ginseng might look like an unassuming root, but it’s packed with centuries of tradition, health lore, and botanical intrigue. Known for its twisting, human-like shape and earthy scent, this root has been revered in East Asian medicine for generations—as a tonic, a cure-all, and even a life-enhancer. When you…
This article is about growing saffron in North America and whether you can really cultivate the world’s most expensive spice in your own backyard or farm. “Saffron is a tiny flower with a massive story — from ancient kitchens to modern gardens, it’s the spice that proves great things come in small packages.” – The…
Scientific name: Crocus sativus L. Family: Iridaceae Welcome to a colorful and fascinating journey into the world of saffron, that precious spice you’ve probably seen paired with paella or risottos. But did you know it’s actually a flower with a rich history, unique growing needs, and surprising health and culinary benefits? In this Plant Compendium entry, you…
