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Exotic and
Unusual Plants from Seed |
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MORINGA OLEIFERA Known, also, as Ben Tree,
Benzolive, Malunggay, or Drumstick Tree. It is native to northwestern India
and is widely grown in other parts of the world. The leaves, flowers and
pods are a food source for humans and animals. Attracting attention, is the
use of the dried & crushed seeds, which are used as a coagulant similar to
the chemical Alum. Moringa foliage and pods are rich sources of minerals
Calcium and Iron and vitamins B, A, and C (when raw) and protein. Click
here see fact sheet |
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CRANBERRY HIBISCUS - Known, also, as False
Roselle, Red-Leaf Hibiscus, or Bronze Hibiscus (Hibiscus Acetosella). It is
African in origin and was probably domesticated in Angola, Sudan or Zaire.
It is believed to be a hybrid of the African wild hibiscus species. The
somewhat fleshy leaves and shoots may be cooked as a vegetable and eaten
with rice. The color and tangy taste of the leaves make this a great
addition to salads or stir-fries.
Click
here see fact sheet |
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RADISH ORIENTAL TRI-COLOR 55-80 days from
seed, round root with tall tops. This radish is unique for its interior
color combination. The exterior is white with green shoulders, while the
inside is mostly white with red veining varying in intensity. The flavor is
mildly pungent, depending on the growing temperatures and soil acidity. A
very unique item for the discerning gardener. |
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QUAILGRASS; CELOSIA ARGENTEA (AMARANTHACAE)
Ornamental and edible garden plant. It is not a grass, but is in the
Amaranthus family sharing many features with other amaranth crops. Leaves
and young blooms are edible. In Indonesia and Africa it is often used like
spinach. The leaves are a good source of protein. The plant is easily grown
anywhere during the warm season. It is also drought tolerant and has
beautiful spikes of purple flowers on a plant which will reach up to 7"
tall. Click
here see fact sheet |
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JICAMA; YAM BEAN (FABACAE-Pea family) - Native of
Mexico to Northern South America, it has been cultivated since the time of
the Aztecs, and is used today into Asia. The tuber is edible and is mainly a
starch/carbohydrate source; relatively low in calories. The young pods can
be cooked and eaten as a vegetable. The leaves and bean contain rotenone; a
natural insecticide, so these should not be consumed. Jicama grows well in
hot humid areas with a long, warm, frost-free growing season. |