101 Wild Edible Plants You Can FORAGE TO SURVIVE By James Cole

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2 survive THE WILD 101 Wild Edible Plants You Can FORAGE TO SURVIVE By James Cole 2

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction.9 Edible vs. poisonous Cattail (Typha latifolia) Water lilies (Nymphaea and Nuphar species) Kudzu (Pueraria lobata) Dame s rocket (Hesperis matronalis) Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) Pigweed (Amaranthus palmeri) Great burdock (Arctium lappa) Watercress (Nasturium officinale) Arrowhead (Sagittaria genus) Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium) Chicory (Cichorium intybus) Curly / Curled dock (Rumex crispus) Plantain (Plantago genus) Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) Bull / Spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare) 27 3

4 16. Daisy fleabane (Erigeron annuus) Snow thistle (Sonchus oleraceus) Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) Blue vervain (Verbena hastata) Self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) Borage (Borago officinalis) Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) Downy yellow violet (Viola pubescens) Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) Lamb s quarters (Chenopodium album) Forget-me-not (Myosotis arvensis) Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) Common mallow (Malva neglecta) Field pennycress (Thlaspi arvense) Goldenrod (Solidago genus) Hop clover (Trifolium campestre) Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia)

5 34. Fern leaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina) Pineapple weed (Matricaria matricariodes) Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) Trout lily (Erythronium americanum) Yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) Vervain mallow (Malva alcea) Yellow rocket (Barbarea vulgaris) Sea plantain / Goosetongue (Plantago maritima) Yellow wood sorrel (Oxalis stricta) Wild violet (Viola odorata) Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella) Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) Toothwort (Dentaria diphylla) Wild grape vine (Vitis riparia) Shepherd s purse (Capsella bursa pastoris) Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum)

6 52. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) Spring beauty (Claytonia caroliniana) Sweetfern (Comptonia peregrine) New England aster (S. novae angliae) St. John s wort (Hypericum perforatum) Spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana) Silverweed (Potentilla / Argentina anserina) Partridgeberry (Mitchella repens) Japanese knotweed (Fallopia / Reynoutir japonica or Polygonum cuspidatum) Rue (Ruta graveolens) Queen Anne s lace (Daucus carota) Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) Horseweed (Conyza Canadensis) Motherwort (Leonurus cardiac) Purple deadnettle (Lamium purpureum) Labrador tea (R. / L. groenlandicum)

7 69. Peppergrass (Lepidium virginicum) Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus indica) Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) Sow thistle (S. arvensis and S. oleraceus) Spotted dead nettle (Lamium maculatum) Red clover (Trifolium pratense) Supplejack vine (Ripogonum scandens) Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum) Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea) Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) White horehound (Marrubium vulgare) Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium purpureum) Knotgrass (Polygonum aviculare) Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) Cleavers (Galium aparine) 98 7

8 87. Chickweed (Stellaria media) Catnip (Nepeta cataria) Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) Daylily (Hemerocallis fulva) Chestnut (Castanea species) Monkey flower (Mimulus genus) Miner s lettuce (Claytonia perfoliata) Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) Chufa (Cyperus esculentus) Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) Field / Wild Garlic (Allium Vineale) Taro (Colocasia esculenta) White clover (Trifolium repens). 113 Conclusion 114 8

9 Introduction Being tuned in with nature is considered to be one of the greatest assets a human can possess. If you are a nature lover and you spend a great deal of time exploring it, you should be prepared for every possible scenario that could go wrong. You could either get lost while backpacking outdoors or be chased into the wild for various reasons. Suddenly, a nature-oriented trip may be turning into a regular survival situation. One of the first rules of outdoor survival is to be able to provide nourishment. What is more, nature offers nourishment easily, it is just a matter of knowledge: know what you are looking for, where you can find it and how to tell it apart from potentially dangerous plants. Hunting and scavenging are also valid possibilities, but they require extra preparation and specific tools. If you want to save as much energy as possible, scouting for edible plants is the way to go. 9

10 However, getting lost in the wild is not the only possible scenario where you have to rely on non-orthodox plants in order to survive. In the context of a sudden and abrupt economic collapse for example, you do not necessarily have to be away from home. Due to inflation and the devaluation of the dollar, food will become scarcer and scarcer and eventually will either be too expensive to afford or will disappear from the market altogether. During these periods of time food scavenging skills become life-saving. The first place to check out will be your lawn; or even your neighbor s lawn for that matter. There is a very high chance for the average lawn to be filled with all sorts of edible weeds, like wild onions, dead-nettle, clover, thistle, dandelions, plantains, violets and other nutritious plants you can add to your menu. If your lawn is exactly generous when it comes to providing edible weeds, you will have to step up your game and increase your scouting range. As a general rule, know that nutrient-storing plants tend to crowd into areas that are opposed to the scenarios they live in. For example, in a dry region, most of the edible weeds / plants will be concentrated near water areas, like lakes, streams, rivers and even puddles. In humid regions, it is the other way around: edible weeds / plants can be usually found in sunny spots. To best thing to have in such situation is a professional guide to help you out with what is dangerous and what is not. 10

11 Edible vs. poisonous Eating wild plants is not a task to be taken lightly. Many people fall victims annually to plant poisoning because of their inability to correctly determine and identify poisonous plants. If you are not exactly an expert in the matter and you lack a professional guide, as a general rule, make sure you avoid plants that grow near roadways or factories, as they are almost certainly affected by all sorts of pollutants. Plants growing near farm or ranches should also be avoided, as they can be coated in highly toxic chemicals. Plants that grow near water should preferably be boiled down before consumption, as this will kill any possible harmful bacteria. Many plants contain cyanide, and the best way to tell them apart is their scent: if anything smells like almonds, keep away! Cyanide gives out an almond-like scent. Elderberries and gooseberries should be avoided, as they are very likely to be mistaken for their poisonous relatives. When it comes to leaves and flowers, keep away from flowers with big, visible seeds and from anything that leaks a milky sap; this is poisonous and you shouldn t eat it. Mushrooms are a real issue in identifying the edible species from the poisonous ones. The most correct way to determine edible from non-edible species is to educate yourself in the matter. 11

12 However, you find yourself completely unprepared and you know nothing about plant identification, you can always rely on the Universal Edibility Test. This is nothing complicated. Test the plant you plan on consuming for nourishment following these simple steps: 1 begin by fasting for 8 10 hours; 2 place the part of the plant you want to eat against the skin and lips to see if there is a reaction (if so, the lips should swallow and turn red in 3 5 minutes); 3 if nothing happens after touching the plant to your skin and lips, you can place it on your tongue for 15 minutes 4 if nothing goes wrong after the 15 minutes are up, you can start chewing on it for 15 more minutes without swallowing 5 if nothing happens, swallow what you have been chewing for the past 15 minutes and wait for 8 more hours; if anything goes wrong, you should induce vomiting immediately 6 if everything appears to be fine after the 8 hours, consume triple the portion you ve tasted and wait for 8 more hours; if nothing bad happens, the plant is basically safe to eat. There are plenty of nutritious plants all over the US (and around the world) that could come very handy in a desperate situation or during the simulation of one. But it is very important to have the right tools that allow you accurately identify the edible from the non-edible ones. Next we will have a look at some of the most spread and readily-available plants that you can use to quell your hunger. 12

13 1. Cattail (Typha latifolia) Typha latifoila, most commonly known as the cattail is probably the best representative for the water loving plants (alongside the waterlily of course). It is widely spread throughout the globe, easily found on the edges of freshwaters. Most parts of the cattail are edible, reason why they have been part of the diet for Native American tribes for centuries. And with good reason too, as they are highly rich in vitamins A, B and C and also contain high amounts of phosphorus and potassium. The rootstock can be boiled or consumed raw, if boiling is not an option; the same is available for the rhizomes. However, a big portion of the rootstock is normally found underground, so make sure you rinse it at least before eating it. The pollen can be used similar to flour. The stem can also be consumed and the best part is placed near the bottom, where the plant is white; you can eat it raw or boil it. The leaves are also nutritious, and you can boil them, just like spinach. 13

14 2. Water lilies (Nymphaea and Nuphar species) Almost all species are edible and they can be easily found in ponds all lake throughout the whole year. They are always a great source of nutrients, even during the hottest summer months, when the rootstocks tend to become a bit tasteless and mushy. They are usually a great source of fatty acids, protein and fiber, which improve digestion. But depending on the genus, they can also store other nutrients as well, that would do wonders for any sort of survival diet. The edible parts are the rootstock (which ideally should be rinsed first), that can be eaten raw or boiled. Leaves and unopened pods are also nutritious and can be prepared as a potherb. The potato-like tubers of the tuberous water lily (Nymphaea tuberosa) can be prepared exactly like potatoes. Almost nothing of the water lily goes to waste, as even the seeds can be ground into a thin flower, delicious and nutritious. Water lilies are easily found in watery settings, just make sure not to pluck any from polluted waters, as this would endanger your health immensely. 14

15 3. Kudzu (Pueraria lobata) The kudzu is considered to be a distinguished member of the wonder-plants association. Not only is the kudzu renowned for its nutritional value, but it also holds a series of medicinal values, such as its anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to treat all sorts of headaches and migraines. The kudzu is one of the most nutritious and versatile plants in Asia. In case of a survival scenario, know that the leaves are the main asset of the kudzu plant. You can eat them raw or boil them; just make sure to rinse them with clean water at least. The root is also nutritious and can be consumed in the same manner. They are packed with starch, which made them quite famous in Vietnam and Japan, being part of many traditional dishes. The flowers have antioxidant properties and they are used for making jam. When picking, watch out for herbicide. 15

16 4. Dame s rocket (Hesperis matronalis) The dame s rocket is a pretty common plant, part of the mustard s family, just like the cabbage, the cauliflower and the broccoli. The plant has lavender flowers (sometimes pink or white) and only 4 petals; not to be mistaken for Phlox, which has 5 petals. The flowers, like the whole plant in fact, are edible and pretty nutritious, but tend to be very bitter on their own. It is not exactly a main choice if you are picky, but in a survival situation, it can provide you some important nutrients. The dame s rocket prefers balanced environments, and will most likely be found in partially sunny and moist and fertile soils (it does not do well at all in acidic soil). It is regular to lowland forests, moist meadows, open woods, thickets, semi-shaded fence rows, and roadsides. 16

17 5. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) The stinging nettle is one of the most prolific plants used for survival purposes, mostly because of its availability (it is available all around the globe). But its nutritional value should not be overlooked, as the stinging nettle is a conglomerate of nutrients, such as vitamin A and C, β-carotene, iron, calcium and sodium, magnesium, potassium and proteins. The leaves are packed of the nutritious substances, but under no circumstances should they be eaten raw. In deactivate its stinging power, the leaves should be boiled; the process will destroy the substance that causes stinging and rashes. The leaves can also make a delicious and antioxidant tea; simply boil them for minutes and then strain the fibers. Just be extra careful while handling the plant in its natural state; the last thing you want is to get stung. 17

18 6. Pigweed (Amaranthus palmeri) Amaranthus palmeri (more commonly known as pigweed) is a mustknown for every prepper out there, big or small, young or old. The reason why pigweed is such a serious contented to the most miraculous survival weed award is that fact that every single inch of its body is edible: roots, stem, leaves and seeds alike. The leaves are better tasting when they are young; they will get more and bitterer with time, but will still retain their nutritional value. You can eat them raw or boil them as you would spinach. Making tea is also an option. The seeds are also nutritious and easy to harvest. You can roast them gently and use them as seasoning for pretty much anything. They are also a pretty good reagent for flour-making. They can be eaten raw as well, so if you do not have the option of roasting and cooking do not worry: just pick them up and throw them in your mouth. The Amaranth is a cocktail of nutrients: proteins, vitamins (A, B, C, D), magnesium and potassium. 18

19 7. Great burdock (Arctium lappa) The great burdock is a sun-loving plant which prospers in humusfilled soil. It is native throughout all the temperate regions of the world and provide shelter and sustenance to some caterpillars. It is not a good source of food for caterpillars only, but for people as well. It is widely consumed in Asia (mostly Japan) and it was very popular in Europe throughout the middle ages. In order to consume the plant, you must know that it is not entirely edible. The only thing that holds a high amount of nutritional value is are the roots of the first-year plant. But do not eat them raw; peel them off the inedible rind and boil them for 40 minutes. After 20 minutes are up, change the water and boil them for 20 minutes more. The burdock has high levels of protein, calcium, vitamins (B6 and C) and magnesium. 19

20 8. Watercress (Nasturium officinale) The watercress is a pretty easy to spot and to identify kind of plant. They have leafy, green bodies and cross-like white flowers. They are very common to Northern Europe mostly. In wild you can find it in watery places, as it is an aquatic plant. And this is reason enough for you to properly clean and rinse it with clean water before ingestion. Watery plants are a wellknown vector for all sort of pathogens and even Fasciola hepatica (responsible for hepatitis). It has a very spicy and unique flavor and it can be eaten raw for survival purposes or even as a spice boost for all sort of green salads, soups, home cooking and sandwiches. As far as the nutritional value goes, know that it contains vitamins (A, B6, C), riboflavin, calcium, manganese and protein. 20

21 9. Arrowhead (Sagittaria genus) Almost all of the members of the Sagittaria genus are edible because they are plants that save important amounts of nutrients in special organs named tubers. It is a watery plant and unfortunately the tubers are not just lying around in plain sight. You can however jolt them out of the ground with a stick or by hand. These tubers are very similar to potatoes (in looks and composition alike). You can either cook them as you would potatoes or simply eat them raw. The roots are also a great source of nutrients. However, during midsummer when the plant is in flower they tend to get very bitter. So if you are not starving, it would be best to avoid the roots. The tubers and the roots alike are very nutritious, as they are rich in vitamins (B6 and C), proteins, calcium, magnesium, potassium. 21

22 10. Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium) This very beautiful plant is spread throughout the globe, but it is more prominent in the Northern Hemisphere. The plant is very easily identifiable because of its purple flowers and its leaf structure (the veins on the leaves are circular). Fireweed has been part of the Native American s cuisine for centuries and with good reason too. The plant contains all sorts of nutrients of vitamins, which would be a great foundation for every balanced diet. You get a very high amount of vitamin A, a moderate amount of vitamin B6, a small amount of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and potassium. The most nutritious part of the plant are the leaves, which are best eaten while the plant is still young; they become bitter with age. The stalk and the flowers can also be eaten. 22

23 11. Chicory (Cichorium intybus) Chicory is a widely spread plant in North America, as well as in Europe and Australia alike. Most of the plan is edible and nutritious, meaning you can have the bright blue or pink flowers for breakfast and later on you can nibble on the stem and roots for lunch and dinner respectively. The roots can also be dried and ground into a hot drink similar to coffee. The green and young leaves also serve their survival purposes, as they can be cooked as a main dish or used to garnish several other dishes. Even the white portion of the new leaves (from the plant s base) can be consumed, either raw or in a salad. Chicory is one of the best natural remedies for intestinal parasites. It contains high amounts of vitamin A and C, calcium, magnesium and iron. 23

24 12. Curly / Curled dock (Rumex crispus) The curly dock (aka. the curled dock) is a native plant to pretty much the entire globe, except Asia. It is abundantly found in Europe and North America, less so in South America and Australia. It is easily identified by its big and wide leaves and also the bright red stock. The plant also grows pretty tall, reaching average heights of three feet. The stalk is edible and very nutritious too. You can dust it off a bit and simply eat it raw. But if you can and are willing to go a step further, you can boil it. Either way, make sure to peel off the outer layers as they are not particularly nutritious and will spoil the taste. The leaves are edible, but you should boil them in 2 3 changes of water to remove the bitter taste. It is rich in β-carotene, calcium and zinc. 24

25 13. Plantain (Plantago genus) The common plantain plant is one of the most famous and utilized medicinal o the face of the planet. It has been part of human culture for thousands of years and has been used as an active treatment for all sorts of diseases. They common mostly to humid settings (such as marshes), but can also adjust fine to alpine settings. The big, 5 7-inch-long leaves are the only parts that are actually edible and holds nutritional value. The leaves are big, oval and are very close to the soil. It is best to consume them while they are young, as they tend to get bitterer with age. It is packed full of vitamin A and C, calcium and proteins. Make sure not to confuse the regular plantain with its more famous relative, the banana plantain. 25

26 14. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) What is evident about this tiny plant is that is has tiny, lovely purple flowers. Another distinguishable features are the roots; its root system can reach impressive lengths of about meters. The long roots make it very resilient to unfavorable weather conditions, especially draughts. It can be found mostly in meadows, woodlands, near flowing waters but also in urban areas (near roads, railways, abandoned fields). The leaves and the young shoots can be eaten raw or boiled. The leaves can also be dried up for later use, as tea or as spice for various dishes. The seeds are also filled with all sorts of beneficial substances (protein, vitamin A and C, niacin, calcium, iron magnesium and more) and can be eaten raw or ground into flour. 26

27 15. Bull / Spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare) The bull / spear thistle can be easily identified thanks to its thorny nature and the bright purple flower heads. The plant is considered invasive (its presence being detrimental to others species) and can grow pretty much anywhere, but it prefers soils with intermediate moisture. It is native to Europe and West Asia, but it was also naturalized in North America, Australia and Africa. The overall height of the plant is about 1.5 meters. The leaves are each 4 12 inches in length. The root contains high amounts of insulin + proteins, fibers and calcium; it is one of the most nutritious parts of the plant and can be served raw or as an ingredient to all sort of salads. The flower buds can be cooked and the seeds roasted. Whatever you do, make sure to pick the prickles first. 27

28 16. Daisy fleabane (Erigeron annuus) The Daisy fleabane is an annual plant, and it is easy to make that out if you consider its scientific name: erigeron = early or old man. This tiny plant prefers sunny and dry conditions and semi-alkaline soils that contain gravel or clay. You can commonly find it in all sorts of fields and even alongside roads and railways. It is easily distinguishable due to its white flowers with thin petals and hairy stems; the leaves normally grow around cm, but the overall height of the plant can reach any values in between 12 and 60 inches. This plants culinary versatility is resumed only to its leaves, which are the only edible parts. You could eat them raw, but the extra-hairy nature of the plant will make the experience not very enjoyable. Apart from a small array of nutrients, it also has caffeic acid which is an active antioxidant and brain-booster. 28

29 17. Snow thistle (Sonchus oleraceus) The snow thistle is a common plant, native to Europe, but pretty common in other places throughout the world as well. It s not pretentious at all when it comes soil types and can be found in gardens, pastures, on the side of roads and railroads. The plant has small yellow flowers (about 6mm) and the stems are hollow; the plant bleeds latex if damaged. The first thing you should consider of adding on your menu are the leaves and flowers, which can be pretty tasty earlier in the season if eaten raw (they ve been known to make excellent seasonings for all sorts of dishes). The stem and the root are also edible if properly boiled. The plant is rich in vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6, and C), magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, sodium, iron, and potassium. 29

30 18. Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) The milk thistle is a plant mostly common to Europe and Asia, but not exclusively as it can also be found in North America, Australia and New Zeeland as well. The length may vary between inches, according to geographic position and natural surroundings. The flower is long and wide, the petals being bright purple (with red nuances). The leaves are lanceolate (lance-shaped) and bright green. This tiny plant has really made a reputation for itself in the field of medicine, being known for combating liver afflictions. Silymarin is the chemical compound responsible for its curative properties. Mostly all of the plant is edible, just make sure to remove all of the prickles prior to ingestion. The leaves can be eaten raw. The stems and roots are edible as well, preferably boiled. 30

31 19. Blue vervain (Verbena hastata) The Verbena (more commonly known as the blue vervain) is a tall and straight plant that grows in the wild and in urbanized zones alike. It prefers highly disturbed zone and is abundant in North America. It can be found near meadows, marshes, pastures and riversides. The plant has a growth range between 12 and 80 inches. The stems are unique, sometimes 4-angled. The blue purple flowers are pleasant to look at, while the leaves may be from 1.5 to 7 inches long. The blue vervain is mostly known as a medicinal plant for external uses. It is a great remedy for open wounds and hemorrhoids. But the proteins and nutrients contained by the tiny plant are just as valuable for the inside of the body as they are for the outside. Eating the leaves, roots and seeds (either raw or cooked) is good for the antidiarrheal, analgesic, anthelmintic and astringent properties. 31

32 20. Self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) Prunella vulgaris is a beneficial plant that is growing throughout North America, Europe and Asia. It is a plant which is most comfortable in most environments and neutral soils; it can be spotted in grasslands, waste ground and around the edges of various woods. This tiny plant contains high amounts of vitamins A, C and K and it is well-known for its curative properties, especially when it comes to sore throats, gum infections and even as an anti-diarrheic. Most of the plant is edible, and how you do it makes very little difference. You can eat the leaves and stems raw or toss them in salads. The roots are tastier if boiled, as it will remove the bitter taste. The rest of the plant can be dried up and ground into powder, which can be used to make a tasty and healthy drink. 32

33 21. Borage (Borago officinalis) The borage is a plant that is mostly known for its beauty and esthetic properties, but do not let that fool you: it has great medicinal and nutritional attributes as well. The plant grows 3 feet tall on average and it has beautiful, blue, star-shaped flowers. The leaves are rather small (about 4 inches) and are covered in bristles. The borage can be found in mildest climate zones, growing anywhere from pastures to woodlands; they are also cultivated for their esthetic and medicinal purposes. It is an excellent source of vitamin A and C, potassium, iron, magnesium and calcium and it has energy-boosting properties. The leaves can be eaten raw or boiled, but remove the bristles first. The flowers and seeds can be eaten as well. 33

34 22. Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) This small plant is related to mint and is widely spread in various regions of the globe, like North Africa, Europe, Western Asia and Southern Russia, but it was also spotted in the US and Canada as well. It can be easily identified. It is pretty draught-resistant, despite the fact that it prefers shady and relatively moist spots, like grassy fields or forests. It can be identified by its deep purple flowers, clustered together and the leaves are smooth and shiny (they grow to be 4 inches long). The shoots are edible, and can be quite tasty as well. They can be eaten raw or cooked. The same thing goes for the leaves as well, but the younger the leaves are, the better, as they tend to get bitterer with age. They can also be brewed into a tea, which has mild antiseptic and antioxidant properties. It contains vitamin C as well as some important minerals. 34

35 23. Downy yellow violet (Viola pubescens) The downy yellow violet is an easily distinguishable plant, thanks mostly to its bright yellow flower. The specie itself can be varied, according to the region it lives in. So you can find the hairier version of the plant (with fewer basal leaves) or the almost hairless version, with a larger amount of basal leaves). It is common to most of Canada and the US and favorite habitats are moist woodlands or thickets. The plant can grow as high as 9 12 inches tall, with bright yellow flowers are about ¾ inch across + 3 inches long basal leaves. The root has been used a lot for medicinal purposes, but it is not recommended for ingestion. However, the leaves and flowers are edible, and can be consumed raw (the leaves can also be boiled or cooked). The leaves especially are packed of vitamin A and C. 35

36 24. Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) It s a fairly common plant in Europe, Asia and North America, but it s also been spotted in Morocco, China and Eastern Russia as well. Coltsfoot usually grows in highly disturbed areas, on roadsides, in ditches and in forest edges. It has round, bright yellow flowers with numerous thin petals. The leaves are hairless and the top side is shiny, while the bottom side is covered in a layer of tiny white hairs. It grows about 6 inches tall. The flowers have a pleasant flavor, and if you want to keep it it s advisable you eat them raw. They also make a great taste booster for various dishes if dried and ground. The leaves should be washed and boiled before eating, as they have a very bitter taste. The plant can be toxic if used for too long; also keep it away from pregnant women and small children! 36

37 25. Lamb s quarters (Chenopodium album) It is a plant that grows in the wild as well as in controlled environments in Asia, and Africa. But in Europe and North America it is considered to be a detrimental factor, as it tends to be invasive in potato fields. The plant reaches 60 inches in height and the leaves tend to be alternant in both location and appearance. The flowers are rather small and grow into a dense inflorescence. The leaves are the main source of sustenance. They can be eaten raw or as part of salads and dishes of your choosing. However, Chenopodium is very susceptible to parasites, so inspect the leaves carefully before eating. It represents an amalgam of nutrients: vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B6 and C), calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. 37

38 26. Forget-me-not (Myosotis arvensis) The forget-me-not is one of the most famous ornamental wild flowers. The flowers are very eye-catching, mostly blue but there are many colored pink or white. They are rather small (about 4 mm in diameter) and the leaves are mostly gathered around the base, with both sides covered in small hairs. They are most common to the Northern Hemisphere, inhabiting mostly rocky zones, meadows or gardens; they are present even in New Zeeland. The only edible part of the plant are the flowers, which can be eaten raw without restrictions in case of a survival scenario. If not, pregnant or breastfeeding women should stay away from eating the plant. The overall beneficial effects of the plant are target lung and circulatory afflictions. 38

39 27. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) The asparagus is an herbaceous plant, which in the wild, shady and relatively moist places throughout the world (North America, Europe, West Asia and North Africa). It does not seem like much at a first glance: it has a much thinner stalk then the common asparagus (the one sold in grocery stores), but its nutritional value still remains intact. There are a lot of nutrients and minerals to take advantage of from Asparagus officinalis, and these are: vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B5, C, E and K), thiamine, niacin, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium and iron. There is no real difference when it comes to eating it: just do it as you normally would with the store asparagus, either eat it raw or boiled. Just wash it or rinse it carefully before, as it can gather quite a bit of dirt. 39

40 28. Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) The evening primrose is a herbaceous plant that has received its name thanks to its reputation of being a late bloomer, as its flowers tend to bloom only late into the evening. The 4-petaled flowers themselves are ephemeral, lasting no more than two days. The stems are normally hairy and the leaves vary in length from 2 to 8 inches. The plant does not grow taller than 60 inches. The Oenothera biennis is commonly found in the US and Canada alike, but it has been naturalized in other countries as well, like Great Britain, Europe, Russia, Australia, New Zeeland, parts of Africa and Asia. The plant is fairly rich in nutrients and can provide sustenance in a survival scenario. The roots are thick and can be eaten raw or cooked (wash them of excess dirt first). The flowers are also edible. It has vitamin C, calcium and magnesium. 40

41 29. Common mallow (Malva neglecta) The common mallow is one of the most common wild plants throughout the US and the world alike. It can also be found in Northern Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Caucasus, Mongolia, China and the whole of Europe. Because of its wide regional density, it has become known by many names, such as buttonweed, cheeseplant, cheeseweed, dwarf mallow and roundleaf mallow. It is easily distinguishable by its beautiful, 5-petaled purple flowers and their slimy and sticky nature (due to the mucilage they produce). Most of the plant is edible, because of the high amounts of protein it contains. Nothing should go to waste and everything can be consumed raw or cooked: roots, leaves, stems, flowers and seeds. 41

42 30. Field pennycress (Thlaspi arvense) The field pennycress is a small plant that is part of the cabbage family (Brassicaceae family). It is a pretty abundant plant that can be easily found almost everywhere: US, Canada, Europe, Japan and Africa (mostly on pastures, but they have been spotted in disturbed places as well). It grows as high as inches and its flowers are crowded made up of four white petals. The basal leaves grow in a rosette, while the leaves that grow on the stem alternate. The field pennycress is edible and nutritious, especially the leaves. They can be eaten raw or cooked. If you plan on eating them raw, know that they very bitter after flowering. If you plan on cooking them, know that they make a great addition to pasta dishes and soups. The seeds can be ground into powder; they are rich in proteins and carbs. 42

43 31. Goldenrod (Solidago genus) The goldenrod is a plant that for who knows what reason has gained the reputation for being a potent allergic trigger because of its pollen. Nothing could be further from the truth, as the golden road has virtually no pollen; it is a plant that is pollinated via insects. The genus itself has many species that share some features, yet are different enough to fall into almost 140 different categories. Many species are abundant throughout the US and Canada and inhabit cultivated fields, orchards, forests, road sides and moist location in general. They can be recognized mostly by the small yellow flowers which grow in clusters, as well as the leaves which have no stem and area rough on one side, and hairy on the other. All above-ground parts can be eaten either raw or cooked (the leaves and flowers can also be made into tea). It has good nutritional values as well as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-cancerous effects. 43

44 32. Hop clover (Trifolium campestre) There are about 3 or 4 known subspecies of Trifolium campestre, similar in resemblance and all of them are edible. The flowers of the hop clovers are yellow, clustered into an oval flower head (the flowers turn lightbrown before producing seeds). The leaves are about 2 cm long, serrated on the margins and the center leaflet is on a stalk. The plant can grow 6 12 inches in height. It can be found in US and Canada, in fields, woods, on the side of roads, but also on lawns and gardens. Almost all of the plant is edible (leaves flower and seeds), be it raw or cooked. The leaves and flowers can also be brewed into tea and the seeds can be roasted. 44

45 33. Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia) The harebell is a small delicate plant, very common in the US, Canada as well as Europe. It is easy to spot in its favorite habitat, consistent mostly of dry, grassy areas and prefer rocky shallow soil. Its most distinguishable feature is its small, dangling lavender-blue flowers, shaped like small bells. Another identification criterion is the milky white sap that is released from the stem, if it gets damaged. They can grow anywhere from 12 to 23 inches in length. Unfortunately, not much of the plant is edible, except from the leaves. But this should not matter, as the leaves are pretty versatile. You could eat them raw or part of salads, or even make tea or blend them into a smoothie. It contains various nutrients as well as an important dose of vitamin C. 45

46 34. Fern leaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina) The Achillea filipendulina (most commonly known as the fern leaf yarrow) is a very reputable medicinal plant, has been so for a long time. The plant is spread all over the globe and it normally prefers waste areas and soils full of nutrients; it is easily found in meadows, forests, pastures along roadsides and even in waste areas. It normally reaches lengths of 3 4 feet in height and is distinguishable thanks to its stout stem that disk flowers. The leaves are similar to ferns and can even grow in spiral across the stem. The leaves may taste bitter, but they are very nutritious. They can be consumed raw or cooked; either way, they will stay bitter. The flowers are better for tea than eating. It is packed with vitamins (C and K), potassium and tannins, making it excellent as a bleeding stopper, treating fevers, swellings, and kidney pain. 46

47 35. Pineapple weed (Matricaria matricariodes) The pineapple weed is also known as the false chamomile, because on closer inspection, it resembles the chamomile flower very closely except for one thing: the white petals are missing. It has gotten the name pineapple because when crushed, this small plant gives off a potent pineapple smell. The plant is native to many countries throughout the world and can thrive even in hostile soils and dry locations. It normally grows 10 inches tall and is easily distinguishable thanks to its cone-shaped flower (yellow and dotty, similar to the chamomile flower) and it has no petals. The leaves grow alternatively, are about 1 inch long and are smooth and hairless. Just like its more famous counterpart (Chamomile), the pineapple weed can be used for tea-making, but not only. You can eat the leaves and flowers raw or cooked. It contains plenty of vitamins and minerals. 47

48 36. Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) The Lamium amplexicaule is a fragile-looking and eye-catching plant that spreads on a wide territorial range all across the planet: Europe, West Asia, South America, Australia, North America and even Greenland. It ranges in between 3 and 10 inches in length and are distinguishable by their weak, square stems. The flowers are purple and are located in the uppers leaf axils (each flower producing a fruit). The leaves are wrinkly and arranged in opposite pairs. The plant can be either eaten or used to make tea. The leaves and the flowers are nutritious, and despite the fact the henbit is part of the mint family, its taste is different. The plant itself has had many uses in the medicinal industry, used for treating rheumatism, reducing high fever and even as a laxative. It has high levels of iron and various vitamins and fibers. 48

49 37. Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) This tiny and apparently harmless-looking plant is originally from Europe and has been considered to be an invasive plant in the US for many years. But ever since its nutritional value has been debunked, its reputation has been partially repaired. It is found pretty much everywhere throughout the US and Canada and it prefers disturbed places. It can be found in ditches, swamps, near railroads / roads in general and woods. It can grow as tall as 3 feet, but some of the smaller specimens only reach 4 inches in height. It has broad, kidney-shaped leaves, tiny 4-petaled flowers and gives off a garlic-like smell. Most of the plant is edible (roots, flowers, leaves and seeds) and can be either eaten raw or cooked (the leaves may be bitter during hot seasons). It contains fibers, iron, zinc, β-carotene, vitamin C and E. 49

50 38. Trout lily (Erythronium americanum) This is a colonial plant, which is naturally situated in big colonies of individuals that can cover a whole forest. What makes it stand out is the fact that when it reaches maturity it has 2 leaves and one yellow flower, whose petals can get curved outwards. They are viable only in forests and similar habitats, spreading throughout the whole eastern side of North America. The plant is fairly rich in important nutrients and minerals, like vitamin A and C, various proteins, phosphorus and sulfur. Not only is the plant edible, but it also has many uses as a medicinal plant. The leaves and flowers have a distinct taste and are best eaten raw rather than cooked. If you are not really keen on eating the plant, you can always make it into tea. The corms are edible as well, and can be ground into flower. 50

51 39. Yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) The delicate yellow toadflax is a plant that originates from Northern Europe (Great Britain, Norway and Sweden). The beautiful yellow flowers are not only used for ornamental purposes, but also for extracting a yellow pigment used for dyes. It is a dry-loving plant and settles in rather well in well drained soils; these can range from sandy clays to gravel. What is really distinguishable about the Linaria vulgaris is its branchy aspect, given by the several stem. The flower is similar to the snapdragon and it is mostly yellow or cream. The leaves are many in number, green and pointed at both ends. The leaves and flowers are best eaten fresh (or dried at most). The young shoots are nutritious as well, but only if cooked. Older plants give off a particular heavy smell; they are still edible, but not exactly tasty. It has a small range of nutrients, but a pretty high amount of vitamin C. 51

52 40. Vervain mallow (Malva alcea) The beautiful garden plant known as the vervain mallow was originally a cultivated plant, but it can be found in the wild as well. The flowers have thin, delicate petals(5 white pink petals) and grow in clusters. Despite its fragile appearance, the vervain mallow is anything but. It prefers shady spots, but it can withstand climate extremes as well (draughts, extreme heat). The leaves are pretty distinct, as they have long petioles and their position alternates along the stem. The plant can reach lengths between 10 and 20 inches. The Malva alcea is known to have a decent amount of nutrients and protein, which can come in handy in a survival situation. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the flowers and seeds can be eaten raw. 52

53 41.Yellow rocket (Barbarea vulgaris) The yellow rocket is a plant that thrives during mild climates. It is abundant between May and August, but if the autumn and winter are mild enough, and can last for months. Its main feature are the bright yellow flowers and shiny and hairless leaves. It can range in size, according to the climate and the surroundings, but a normal plant ranges between 8 and 30 inches. It does best in moist soils, rich in nutrients; its commonly found in gardens, meadows, pastures and even in urbanized zones (like waste areas, roadsides and construction sites). The most nutritious part of the plant are the leaves, packed with vitamin B, calcium, potassium, and fiber; they tend to get bitterer with age. The flowers are a good source of protein, and just like the leaves, they can be eaten raw, cooked or used for teamaking. 53

54 42. Sea plantain / Goosetongue (Plantago maritima) The Plantago genus is known for its long and, narrow and pointy leaves, which are responsible for their popular title of goose tongue. It is hard to pinpoint exactly the exact point of origin, but it is found almost everywhere: Europe, South and North America, central Asia and North Africa. It is most comfortable on littoral settings, in sandy soils. But it can do just as well in alpine soils. It is a dense plant, made up mostly of the long leaves previously mentioned. They do not have a stem and grow anywhere between 1 and 8 inches long. The flowers are small and gathered in clusters. The only edible and nutritious part of the plant are the leaves, which can be eaten raw or cooked. It is a good source of vitamin B and C and can have laxative properties. 54

55 43. Yellow wood sorrel (Oxalis stricta) The yellow wood sorrel is a beautiful, easy to spot and identify edible plant which is abundant all across North America (US and Canada). It is most comfortable in moist soils and it prefers shady spots. They are found in forests, in association with plants like wild violets and wild garlic. The flowers are yellow, with an erect pistil. The leaves are small, distributed into a palm-like formation and are mostly green; sometimes they may change color from green to purple or brown-red. They main distinctive feature of the wood sorrel is that the seed pods are bent upward. When it comes to eating, the leaves the flower and the seed pods can be eaten fresh; not only are they nutritious, but they also have a sour and refreshing taste. You can eat them fresh or make a cold beverage. But do not overuse it, as it has high amounts of oxalic acid. Oxalic acids may be detrimental in high doses, especially for people with arthritis, rheumatism, gout or kidney stones. 55

56 44. Wild violet (Viola odorata) This beautiful and nutritious plant is wildly spread on many continents. It is from in Europe, in Canada, in the US and even in Australia. Although it thrives in Australia, it does not do well in the sun. It grows in shady areas, in rich, moisture retentive soils. Most of the flowers are lightviolet, formed out of 5 petals. But in some cases, yellow or white wild violets have been identified as well. What is characteristic for the plant is the white area at the base of each petal. The leaves are alternate, either kidney or heart shaped. Growing length varies between 5 10 inches. As far as its nutritional value is concerned, it contains important amounts of vitamins A and C. The flowers and the leaves are equally edible and can be eaten raw, as well as tossed into salads, stews, broths and soups. 56

57 45. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) This plant is beautiful enough to be a successful decorative plant. But believe it or not, it has been even more efficient in the field of medicine, ever since the 17 th century, when it was highly used for treating insomnia and anxiety (amongst others). It is native to Europe and it can be easily found in fields, forest edges, river banks and abandoned areas. The tiny beautiful flowers are gathered in clusters and are alternatively purple and white. The leaves grow in opposition to each other; the plant can grow anywhere between 32 inches and 6 feet tall. The leaves and seeds are edible. The leaves can be consumed raw, cooked or even chopped and dried to be later used as condiment (the plant normally smells repulsive when dried, so do not worry about it). The root can be boiled and made into tea. It has a cocktail of various nutrients and protein, which act like an overall sedative on the nervous system, so do not overuse it. 57

58 46.Sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella) The Rumex acetosella is one of the important ingredients used Essiac tea, an alternative cancer treatment which has been around for years. It originates in Europe and Asia, but it was also introduced to North America. It is very prolific in sandy, rocky, acidic soils; it grows in association with blueberries, so if you find one of these plants, chances are the other is nearby. It has small, flowers clustered into an inflorescence. The plant is unisexual, meaning individuals can have only one sex; so the male plants have yellow flowers, while female plants have green flowers. However, the overall aspect of the plant is reddish light brown. The leaves are rather nutritious and can be eaten raw, cooked or even as additions to soups and broths. The seeds are also edible; however, the plant should be eaten in moderation. It is a great source of vitamin A, C, E, D and β-carotene. 58

59 47. Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) The Monarada fistulosa is a rather renowned perennial plant, also known as wild bergamot or wild be balm. It was highly used by Native Americans to cure all sorts of health afflictions. It is a sun-loving plants that does best in sunny and dry regions. It is present in thickets, fields, woods and even borders limestone glades. It normally reaches inches in length. The flowers are round and lavender-colored. Its leaves grow in opposition, and can vary in color (from light to dark green). It is not an entirely edible plants, but the leaves and flowers can be quite nutritious. You can eat them raw or cooked. They can stand very well on their own, or even as condiments or side dishes. The leaves can also be brewed into tea. It is abundant in vitamin A and C, as well as other nutrients. 59

60 48. Toothwort (Dentaria diphylla) The toothwort is a small and fragile plant that is part of the cabbage and mustard family (Brassicaceae). It is native to North American and thrives in moist and rich soils, especially in woods and meadows. It is recognizable through its tri-lobbed basal leaves with white veins; they also have a long petiole. The flowers are mostly white or pink (seldom purple) and grow into an inflorescence. In reaches lengths of 8 16 inches. The plant is edible and nutritious. The leaves can be eaten raw, cooked or added to salads and other dishes and a touch of flavor. Same goes for the root, the only difference being that the roots tend to have a pungent, yet not necessarily unpleasant taste. It has various vitamins and nutrients, but it is mostly abundant in vitamin A and C. 60

61 49. Wild grape vine(vitis riparia) The wild grape vine is similar in many ways to the common vine, especially in the fact that it is a hanging plant, without a solid trunk. It is very prolific and it is known for its tenacity and ability to envelop bushes or small trees with ease. It can be found near river banks, forest edges and along roadsides. Its ability to grasp on the scenario is conferred by small yet potent tendrils, which grow from a stalk opposite to leaves. The flowers are small and white, gathered in clusters. The leaves are heart-shaped at the base and serrated on the edges. The average wild grape vine can grow as long as 55 feet long. First of all, the grapes should be the first thing on the menu. They are at their tastiest after the first frost. The leaves are also edible, either raw or cooked. WARNING! The common moonseed (Menispermum canadense)is similar to riverbank grape (Vitis riparia) but is highly poisonous. 61

62 50. Shepherd s purse (Capsella bursa pastoris) The shepherd s purse has a pretty specific name, and it does the plant justice considering the purse-shaped seedpods. It is part of the mustard family, but you can easily tell it apart from its other relatives by the small, lobed and hairy basal leaves. The flowers are white, small and gathered in clusters, similar to wild mustard. The leaves are about 4 inches long and heart-shaped, situated on long, thin stems. Its average length is about inches. It is originally from Europe, but it is wildly spread all over the world; it is found in grain fields, gardens, fields and on the side of the roads. The leaves are nutritious, and you can either cook them or eat them raw. The leaves are tastier when young, and can even be dried and stored. The flowers and the roots are also edible (preferably raw). They are rich in vitamin C, iron, and calcium. 62

63 51.Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum) The Dipsacus fullonum (aka. teasel) is a plant easily distinguishable by its unique flower. The flowering involves egg-shaped flower heads around whose middle the flowers form a ring. The flowers will continue to grow over a few days, but will die and disappear rather quickly (ephemeral flowers). The flowers are light violet and the flower had can be as big as 20 inches; the overall length of the plant can even reach lengths of 8 feet. The plant is originally from Europe, but is found throughout North America as well. It can be found in fertile, damp soils. It has a wide range of vitamins (B, C and D3) and insulin that makes it nutritious and reliable in a survival situation. The young leaves are edible, but make sure to remove the hairs first. The root can be brewed into tea. 63

64 52. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) The sunflower is a plant so deeply rooted in pop culture that it barely needs any introduction. But for those who never saw a sunflower in the flesh, you might be surprised to know that it can grow as high as 5 feet. The stalks are erect and stiff and the flowers have a multitude of thin, yellow petals and normally measure 5 6 inches in diameter. The sunflower does really well in moist, open spaces (but it can handle dry places as well). It grows in fields, prairies, grassy areas, along roadsides as well as in other disturbed areas. There are a lot of nutrients to benefit from: like fatty acids, vitamins (B complex), niacin, folic acids and various minerals. The seeds are the most nutritious part of the plant, and they can be picked and eaten raw or cooked. The flower pods can be boiled, while the petals, leaves and roots can be brewed into tea. 64

65 53. Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) The mullein is an erect and tall plant which is easy to spot not only thanks to its height, but also because of its bug, yellow and clustered flowers. The crowded flowers are set at the end of the stem, near its peak, adding to the plant uniqueness. The leaves are long and oval, and are gathered in a rosette at the base of the stalk; they grow about 20 inches long. The overall length of the plant is about 6.5 feet tall. It is very accustomed to dry and sunny areas, like disturbed areas, waste places, open fields, near railways and roadsides. The plant is not edible as a whole, despite the leaves and the flowers. They are quite nutritious, considering they contain Vitamin A and C, sodium, phosphorus, niacin and magnesium. You can eat them raw, cook them or even use them for tea-making. 65

66 54. Spring beauty (Claytonia caroliniana) The spring beauty has earned the name thanks to its beautiful whitepurplish flowers. The flowers can be entirely white, or have purple veins along the length of the petals. Each flower has 6 petals and is almost 1 inch wide. The bottom part of each petal is yellow, forming a small yellow circle on the inside. The leaves are situated on the stalk. They are pretty massive, measuring about 3 inches in length and 1 inch in width. The plant can grow as high as 5 inches tall. Its natural habitat is made up of moist environments and rich soils. It thrives in forests, wetlands and thickets all across eastern US. The leaves and stems can be eaten raw or cooked. The root is very nutritious and can be eaten raw or you can cook them in the same way as you would potatoes. They are full of starch, which makes them both nutritious and tasty. They also contain vitamins (A and C), iron and potassium. 66

67 55. Sweetfern (Comptonia peregrine) The Comptonia peregrine is a common shrub which can be found all across Canada, as well as the eastern side of the US. They are easily spotted, as they do not grow solitary, but in colonies. Even though it has been categorized as a shrub, its leaves are similar to ferns and release a powerful aroma to the touch. The multitude of leaves give the impressions of multiple stems. It has both male and female flowers which develop in and cylindrical clusters (male = elongated, female = oval). The leaves alternate along the shoots and the leaves. The plant can grow as high as 3 feet tall and is most comfortable in well drained soils, sandy barrens, woods, and roadsides. The leaves can be eaten, but they are best used for tea making. They can also be prepared and stored for later usage; just dry them and grind them into powder. The fruits (nuts) are edible raw. It has vitamins B and C, as well as proteins. 67

68 56. New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae angliae) Despite of its good looking flowers that could rival any ornamental plant on the face of the planet, the New England aster is actually a very aggressive weed. The flowers are rather large, light purple with numerous thin petals. The flower heads are situated at the end of the branches. The plant has a bunch of leaves situated lower down the stem, but they usually disappear by the time the plant starts flowering; the margins are smooth. The plant varies in height from 50 inches to 7 feet. It is a common plant in both US and Canada alike and it is commonly found in wet open areas, fields, thickets and swamps. The aster is considered to be a good source for vitamins C and K. The flowers and leaves can be eaten raw or you can dry and grind them into powder, which you can use for tea-making. The root is highly used in holistic medicine. 68

69 57. St. John s wort (Hypericum perforatum) The St. John s wort is one of the oldest plants ever to be used for holistic treatments and has many uses in modern medicine as well. Apart from the good-looking yellow flowers (of 5 petals each, with black dots along the margins), the plant is easily distinguishable by its wood-like base. The flowers measure about 0.5 inches in diameter and are gathered in clusters at the end of each branch. The leaves have a very distinct characteristic, making them almost unique: they have random transparent dots, which are obvious if held up to a light source. It is really comfortable in dry soils, open fields, pastures and sunny locations in general. The leaves and flowers both are edible. You can eat them raw, cooked or as seasoning for salads and home cooked dishes. It is a nutritious and mineral-packed plant, which has been successfully used in treatments for anxiety and depression. 69

70 58. Spiderwort (Tradescantia virginiana) The spiderwort plant is a wild plant that is also being cultivated in personal gardens because of its native beauty. It has been first dated in the 17 th century in Europe, and now-a-days is also present in North America (US and Canada alike). They can be identified thanks to their stalks, which can be branched at the base. The flowers are bright-blue (occasionally purple, violet or white), a bit fragrant and are situated in clusters on the end of branches. The leaves are dark-green and wrapped around the stem. It is naturally adapted for moist soils and shady areas, but it can adapt in slightly drier locations as well. The leaves and the flowers are best eaten raw, or at least tossed in salads and cold dishes (cooking might spoil their nutritional value). The seeds can be roasted and eaten or ground into powders. Its cocktail of nutrients and beneficial substances make the spiderwort an excellent antidiarrheal, analgesic, antiperiodic, astringent, diaphoretic, expectorant, sedative, and tonic. 70

71 59. Silverweed (Potentilla / Argentina anserina) The silverweed is a nutritious and beneficial plant; it is in fact one of the most spread medicinal plant throughout the world: It naturally grows in Europe, North America, South America, Australia, New Zeeland, Asia and in some parts of Africa. As far as its habitat is concerned, it is a pretty versatile plant that can be found in damp meadows or wet shores, but it can also thrive in arid conditions. The distinctive feature is the alternation between big leaves and small leaves; the plant has red runners, covered in white hairs. The flowers are yellow with 5 petals and it grows as high as 12 inches. The leaves can be eaten raw, cooked or brewed into tea. Same goes for the roots, except for the tea part. Just dry, grind and store them instead. The silverweed is packed with flavonoids, vitamins A and K, making it a good analgesic, diuretic, astringent and tonic. 71

72 60. Partridgeberry (Mitchella repens) The partridgeberry is a common and very edible wild berry. What makes it distinguishable at a first glance is the white flowers (that come in pairs) and the plump, red berries. The shrub is small and gives out 1 berry / pair of flowers. The stems are green or light brown when young, and tend to become dark brown when older. The white flowers form at the tips of branches and are composed of 4 petals. The flower is oval, with undulated margins, light green on the upper surface and dark green on the opposite side. It can reach any height between 4 and 12 inches. It can be found in North America, in rough areas (rocky / sandy, ravines and swamps). The berries and the leaves are edible and abundant in vitamin C, antioxidants and tannin. They can be consumed raw or cooked. NOTE! Not to be confused with the similar and equally-edible lingonberry (Vaccinium vitisidaea). 72

73 61. Japanese knotweed (Fallopia / Reynoutir japonica o rpolygonum cuspidatum) This plant has been subjected to some degree of controversy in the scientific world, which lead to it having two scientific names: Polygonum cuspidatum (the US) and Fallopia /Reynoutria japonica (the rest of the world). It is a rapidly-growing plant (growing 3 feet per month) reaching as much as 12 feet overall. It recognizable by its reddish stalks, the white cluster of minuscule flowers and the knotweed alternate leaves. It is commonly found near water sources in North America, England, Australia, New Zeeland and Eastern Asia. It is tolerant to very various ambient: high or low saline soils, sunny or shady areas, moist or arid climates. The most edible parts of the plant are the young shoots (preferably when they are 7 inches long); you can eat them raw or cooked, as well as the stems, stalks and branches. It is packed with vitamin A and C, iodine and other minerals. 73

74 62. Rue (Ruta graveolens) The Ruta graveolens or the rue is a plant that has been proven to have minor health benefits if consumed in moderation. It is imperative to know that in large quantities the plant can become toxic and should be avoided entirely by small children and pregnant women. It is an erect plant and has bushy branches. The flower has 4 elongated, yellow-green petals. It has glue-green leaves that alternate along the stem. It can grow as high as 25 inches and it tolerates rather well dry conditions; it can be found in rocky terrains and dry hills. Let me remind you again: eat only small amounts and do not feed to pregnant women and children! The leaves give out a strong odor, have a bitter taste, but they are edible. So are the other aerial parts of the plants, which can be eaten raw, cooked or chopped, dried and stored as medical supplies. It holds vitamin K and caprinic acid. 74

75 63. Queen Anne s lace (Daucus carota) The first thing to know about this plant is that it is rather similar to the following poisonous plants: poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) and fool's parsley (Aethusa cynapium). The flowers are white and gathered in a big clusters. Its flower is similar to lace and sometimes the flower has a purple dot in the middle. If you cannot tell it apart by the flowers, try smelling the roots, as it has a carroty scent. The leaves are also similar to that of the common carrot. It can grow as high as feet and it thrives in open fields, meadows and disturbed areas. The plant is best eaten during the first year; the roots are pale in color and can be used for tea-making or added do various dishes. The leaves and flowers can be eaten raw or added to salads. It contains vitamins B and C, pectin, lecithin, glutamine and phosphatide. 75

76 64. Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) The horsetail is a very old component of the medicinal plants group. Its use has been attested since the times of the Romans, when it was used to cure various illnesses, like arthritis and kidney problems. During the spring you can recognize it by its cones and brown stems. After the spores are released, the overall color of the plant changes from brown to green. It has no flowers (as it is a fern) and the tubular, slim and pointed. It grows between 8 inches and 3 feet. It can be found in all sorts of habitats, like marshes, tundras, open fields, waste areas, thickets and along roadsides. The plant is almost entirely edible, as all aerial parts can be either eaten raw, cooked or added as seasoning to various dishes. It is rich in minerals and other nutrients, like calcium, potassium and silicon. 76

77 65. Horseweed (Conyza Canadensis) If you are interested to lookup as many details as you can about this tiny nutritious plant, formerly known as Erigeron Canadensis, know it might also come up like this. It is a very leafy plant, with hairy stem and branches. If damaged, they give out a carroty scent. It has several flower heads, as the small white flowers are gathered in clusters. The leaves are lanceshaped and alternate. It grows as high as 6 feet and it is found in North American, Eastern Europe, parts of Asia and Australia. It is common to fields, pastures and sometimes roadsides. The young leaves are edible and they are best eaten raw or dried and stored for later usage as seasonings. The seedlings (the young ones) can also be eaten and are best eaten raw. The plant contains high levels of various proteins, as well as calcium and potassium. 77

78 66. Motherwort (Leonurus cardiac) The scientific name given to this tiny plant (Leonuruc cardiac) is a direct reference of the benefits it has on the heart as well on the circulatory system. It is an erect bush (pointing upwards) that tends to grow fast in all directions. The flowers can be either pink or purple and hairy by nature. They grow in whorls that alternate with the leaves along the stem. The interior content of the leaves may be irritating to the touch; they are dark green on one side, and light green on the other. It prefers moist and shady spots, but it can survive a moderately dry and sunny places as well. The flowers are nutritious and can be eaten raw or added as a mild seasoning to salads and soups. The leaves are best brewed into tea. It has vitamin A, volatile oils, flavonoids, and tannin. 78

79 67. Purple deadnettle (Lamium purpureum) A fun fact about this tiny little plant is that its scientific name roughly translates from Latin as the purple devourer. It is a common plant for treating all sorts of illnesses; the leaves can be used as natural bandages for open wounds. The main distinguishable feature is the square stem and its leaves are triangular, purple or red in color and directly attached to the stem. The flowers last for about 5 6 weeks and are typically pink, they are tubular in shape. It grows to be 12 inches long. It is widely spread throughout the planet, and found in Europe, Northern Africa, North America, West Asia and along the Mediterranean. The young leaves are edible and can be quite tasty. They can also be used in salads or turned into nutritious smoothies or tea. Its nutritious characteristic is given by the high amounts of flavonoids, antioxidants, iron, vitamins and fiber. 79

80 68. Labrador tea (Rhododendron / Ledum groenlandicum) This tiny plant is not only a nutritious and well-known medicinal herb, but it also serves as an ecological indicator; it is an indicator for highly acidic soils, moist yet poor in nutrients. It is a shrub that has deeply implemented rhizomes into the ground, which makes it survive even wildfires. It grows in dense colonies and its flowers are clustered and have 5 white petals. The leaves are evergreen, alternate and give off a powerful scent if crushed. It normally grows to be 3 feet tall. It is found in extra moist settings, like marshes and bogs. The leaves are best used for tea-making rather than eating. The same goes for the flowers as well. Don t eat them, as they could be toxic; however, the toxic particles become neutralized during boiling. 80

81 69. Peppergrass (Lepidium virginicum) The peppergrass is yet another edible member of the cabbage and mustard family (Brassicaceae)and it is also known as the poor man s pepper; and with good reason too, considering the peppery taste this fragile plant has. Its main characteristic is the highly branched stem (the racem) and it has circular, flat seedpods which grow below the flowers, which are tiny white and each present 4 petals; the flowers are situated in prolonged clusters. It can grow to be 25 inches tall and is usually found in pastures, fields, prairies and disturbed areas. The peppergrass is common in North America Central America, Europe Australia and Asia (partially). The entire plant is edible, whether raw or cooked. The seedpods are spicy enough to substitute black pepper. It is an important source of vitamins (A and C), iron and protein. 81

82 70. Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus indica) The Opuntia genus originates from South America and is pretty common in North America as well today, especially in Mexico and the US (where there is a total of 5 species). The prickly cactus is easy to distinguish from their surroundings especially by their big, flat and round stems (cladodes), also known as pads. These pads are actually mutated branches, which are used for water and nutrients storage. It has no leaves, as they have been transformed into spikes. The flowers can vary in color, according to the specie. It is a desert plant, which thrives in the most arid conditions. The big, red and round fruits of the plant are edible and they can be consumed raw. The same goes for the pads, which are deposits of minerals and vitamins; the pads can also be cooked. It is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, sterols and fatty acids. 82

83 71. Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) The pickerelweed (also known as Pontederia cordata in scientific terms) it is a great food source for many animals and can normally be found in shallow freshwaters. It can take water levels from a few inches to 6 feet deep. It has made a home out of Europe, North America, South America, Australia and parts of Africa. The plant is easily distinguishable by the fact that it grows in colonies; the tiny violet / blue flowers for in clusters the leaves are (more or less) heart-shaped and the stalks are follow and air-filled (like most water plants. The seeds are nutritious and versatile, as well. They can be eaten raw, roasted or cooked. They can be used as a flavor boost in dishes or pastries (i.e. homemade bread); you can even grind them into flower and store them for later use. The leaves and stalks are also edible. It holds important amounts of vitamin A and C. 83

84 72. Sow thistle (Sonchus arvensis and Sonchus oleraceus) There are two types of sow thistles: the perennial sow thistle (Sonchus arvensis) and the annual sow thistle (Sonchus oleraceus). Both are edible and are pretty much similar, the only difference being is their size. They are very similar to dandelions, but the main way of telling them apart is the number of flowers per stalk: the dandelion has one yellow flower per stalk, while the sow thistle has several yellow flowers per stalk. The stems tend to ramify towards the top and the leaves alternate from the middle up. It can grow as much as 3 feet and it can grow in all sorts of disturbed areas throughout North America and Europe. The young leaves, flowers and roots are edible, whether raw or cooked (just remove the leaves spines first). It contains vitamin A and C, mineral salts, proteins and carbs. 84

85 73. Spotted dead nettle (Lamium maculatum) The spotted dead nettle is a very uncommon member of the nettle family. For one, it is not able to sting and secondly, the leaves have a discolored spot along the middle. The leaves are the first distinguishable feature to go by when looking out for dead nettle. The flowers are pink and grow on square stems. The plant can grow as high as 8 inches and being a weed it can be found in gardens, but also in forests, woods and even fields; it does best in rich soils. The leaves and flowers are equally nutritious and edible. Both can be eaten raw in case of a survival situation, but if it is not the case, you can add them to salads, stews, soups or broths. You can also make tea out of them. It is rich in all sorts of nutrients and minerals that could benefit your health, such as vitamin B6 and C, iron, calcium and potassium. 85

86 74. Red clover (Trifolium pratense) This is a nutritious little plant for humans and animals alike. You do not need scientific confirmation, but just the fact that it has been a part of cattle diet for a very long time. What makes it stand out from the crowd is its globular reddish flower head, made up from multiple tubular flowers. Each flower is made up from 5 narrow petals. The leaves are oval and tend to be broader near the middle. It can reach 30 inches in height and it can be found in sunny habitats, like meadows, pastures, and grassy fields. The flower is the most nutritious part of the plant. You can eat them raw or toss them into salads. The same goes for the leaves as well; except they are better for tea-making rather them using them as seasonings. The red clover is a regular nutritional cocktail; it has vitamin C, calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium and thiamine. 86

87 75. Supplejack vine (Ripogonum scandens) This vine is not exactly popular throughout the world, seeing that it is only native to the Oceania zone, meaning Australia, New Zeeland and New Guinea. It is not a backyard weed, but if you happen to find yourself stranded in one of these zones, you will be glad you have read up on the supplejack vine. It is a climbing plant, and it does so by coiling itself around the environment. At first (in the first year) it is similar to a shrub, but by the second year it begins to turn into a vine. The flowers are hermaphrodite with 6 tepals (white or light green) and the leaves are narrow and dark green (in most cases). It grows in forests and all sorts of moist areas. It has plump red berries, which are edible when ripe. They can be eaten raw or cooked. The young shoots are similar to asparagus and can be eaten raw or cooked as well. The seeds, roots and leaves can also be consumed or stored for later uses. It has vitamin C as well as other minerals. 87

88 76. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) The purslane is the best example of not judging a book by its cover: although fragile-looking, is one of the most resilient plants you can imagine. It is very little pretentious and can grow in all sorts of soils. It is exactly this tenacity which makes it available worldwide. It normally grows in fields, gardens, on flowerbeds, near roads and even in uncommon places like cracks in cement. It is easily identifiable by its thick reddish stem and succulent, thick leaves. By no means is it a tall plant, growing no more than 4 5 inches in length. It is edible and has an overall sour taste. The leaves, the stems and the flower buds are equally edible, and can be eaten raw or cooked (boiling will remove the sour taste). It has vitamin A and C, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. WARNING! Purslane is similar to the Hairy-Stemmed Spurge (Euphorbiaceae family) which is highly poisonous. 88

89 77. Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum) This curative plant is bearing the name of a French monk who lived approximately 900 years ago and used this particular plant to cure many sufferers of various illnesses. The plant is known to be the base for many external medicines for open wounds, skin afflictions and even herpes. The first thing that will hit when in vicinity of this plant will be its unpleasant smell, which is in high contrast with the beautiful pink flowers. The leaves are dark green, while the leaflets are white green. On average it can grow as much as 15 inches tall. As far as habitat goes, it prefers moist and shady areas. The leaves are very nutritious and can be eaten raw, as part of salads of even brewed into tea. Same goes for the flowers, except they can also be dried and stored. It has high amounts of nutrients, like vitamins (A, B and C), calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus. 89

90 78. Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea) This plant has got a real terrible rep along the years and has been flagged as an absolute invasive weed by many specialists. But there is no such thing as absolute evil, and even this green monster has its uses. It can be identified by its square stem and the fine hairs covering all of its body. The flowers are blue and cone-shaped; the leaves are dark green, almost heart-shaped and grow in opposition to each other. The main root is thick and can be as big as 3 feet long. It grows in damp surroundings and can be spotted in forests, woodlands and even in gardens. The young leaves are edible either raw or cooked like spinach. They are pretty versatile, considering they can also be served as tea. It contains vitamin C. 90

91 79. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) Echinacea has some of the most beautiful wild flowers one can see. The plant is native to North America, where it has been used as a medicinal herb by Native Americans for hundreds of years. The plant is very draught resistant and is easy to spot thanks to its pink or purple flowers, which surround the big seed cones. The leaves are dark green, lanceolate, serrated on the margins and rough to the touch. It grows as high as 3 feet tall and it is normally found barrens, prairies and woods. It has won its notoriety thanks to the medicinal properties it possesses. Most of the plant is used for tinctures and medicine making. As far as its edibility goes, the leaves and the petals (not the whole flower) are edible either raw, cooked or brewed into tea. It is mostly known for being a great source of vitamin C, but it also has essential oils, flavonoids, inulin and polysaccharides. 91

92 80. White horehound (Marrubium vulgare) The white horehound is a plant that has been used throughout history as medicinal herb, used to treat coughs, fevers and even malaria. It is a small bushy plant, which rarely grows taller than 12 inches in height. Its branches are square and its flowers are white and are normally positioned between the stem and a leaf or branch. The leaves are almost unique in appearance, similar to old skin, very wrinkly; they also emit a potent scent. Its habitat of choice consists in dry, well-drained soils. It does not require much to survive and can even appear on roadsides, fields and disturbed areas. All of the aerial parts of the plant are edible. They can be eaten raw or used for cooking. The leaves and flowers make a great addition to stews or soups. They contain vitamin C, potassium, flavonoids, tannins and sterols. CAUTION! Horehound shouldn t be consumed on a daily basis, and not at all by women who are lactating or breastfeeding. 92

93 81. Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) The marsh marigold is a small and apparently fragile plant with beautiful, yellow flowers. It is considered to be a legitimate spring herald, as it is one of the first plants to appear in temperate regions once the cold starts to subside. The flowers are easy to spot thanks to their bright yellow petals; they have multiple stamens and pistils. It has both basal and stalk leaves. It can vary in size from 6-18 inches long, according to the environment conditions. Its habitat of choice are wet areas, like marshes and bogs all across North America, South America, Australia and even the West Indian archipelago. The plant is edible, but should never be eaten raw! It contains a toxic compound (glycoside protoanemonin) which gets destroyed by heat. Boil or cook the leaves, buds or roots thoroughly before eating. It contains vitamin C, flavonoids, tannins and carotene. 93

94 82. Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium purpureum) The Eutrochium purpureum (aka. Eupatorium purpureum) is a very beautiful wildflower and in theory it was named after a famous Native American healer (Jopi) who during the mid-1800s used this particular plant to treat typhus. The stems tend to split into thin branches towards the top, and on these branches clusters of small, pink-purple flowers appear. It has whorled leaves which on average grow to be 10 inches long. The leaves are rough to the touch. It prefers moist environments like marshes and thickets across the US and Canada. It can grow anywhere between 3 and 9 feet. The entire body of the plant is edible. The flowers can be eaten raw or brewed into tea. The leaves and the stem can be eaten raw or cooked. The flower buds can be eaten raw or dried and store (same goes for the root). It is rich in vitamin A and C as well as other minerals. 94

95 83. Knotgrass (Polygonum aviculare) The knotgrass is a weed-type grass that rather low-growing. It spreads rapidly in all sorts of environments, therefore it is considered to be a very tenacious weed. They can be easily spotted thanks to their long stems (3 feet long), tiny flowers and small leaves. The flowers are white and fecundation occurs by self-pollination. The leaves are elliptical, with a small petiole. It can grow in fields or disturbed areas; it can even appear through cracks in cement in urbanized areas. The plant is edible but the root should be avoided. The aerial parts however, care all edible. The flowers and the leaves can be equally eaten raw or tossed into salads for extra flavor and even cooked. The plant is resilient to storage as well, so you can dry it chop it up and store it. It contains vitamin K, carotene, and tannins. 95

96 84. Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) The Asclepias syriaca, more commonly known as the milkweed is a plant with a long tradition in the field of medicine. In fact, the scientific name is a direct tribute to the Greek god of healing (Asclepius). Its most distinguishable features are its seeds: they are 8 mm long, flat, reddishbrown and have a silky excrescence at one end. The flowers grow at the tip of the stems and are pink or purple. The leaves are oval and can grow to be 4 8 inches long. The overall length of the plant is about 4 feet. It prefers dry habitats. WARNING! Milkweed is similar to dogbane (Apocynum cannabinum) which is highly poisonous! The flower buds and flowers can be cooked (fried at best) or eaten raw. The pods and shoots are also edible and nutritious. The plant is most delicious and nutritious while young (under 6 inches in length). It is a great source for vitamin C and β-carotene. 96

97 85. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) Chamomile has a rock-solid reputation as far as its medicinal status is concerned. And rightly so; but not only is it great for tea, tinctures and all sorts of extracts, but it is also edible and quite nutritious as well. Chamomile extracts helps soothe various ailments, stomach problems, some skin conditions and muscle spasms. There are many species, but they can easily be identified by their tiny white flowers that resemble daisies. The leaves are similar to ferns, meaning they are divided and light green. It grows as high as 25 inches 3 feet long. They grow in sonny locations mostly. The edible parts of this plant are the leaves and the flowers. The flowers have a very unique taste, similar to apples. Both flowers and leaves can be eaten raw, cooked and brewed into tea. It is rich in vitamins (B complex and C). 97

98 86. Cleavers (Galium aparine) The cleavers is a plant is part of the Rubiaceae family, which consists of almost 3,000 different species. It is quite spread and known by many names: clivers, stickybud, sticky willy, stickyweed and kisses.although this plant is known as nutritious and as a good source of nourishment during a survival scenario, it has been signaled as a trigger for allergies in many people. If you know yourself as easily allergic, do not touch or eat the plant! The flowers are very small, with 4 white petals which are fused at the base. The leaves lanceolate and bended at the tips; they have no stalk and are stalked in groups of 6 9. They are normally found at field margins, pastures, orchards, gardens and waste areas all across North America, Central America, North Africa and Australia. The leaves and stems can be eaten raw, cooked or even brewed into tea. The fruit can be dried and used as a coffee substitute. It has important amounts of vitamin C as well as other important minerals. 98

99 87. Chickweed (Stellaria media) Chickweed is a very spread-out plant and it grows in various conditions despite its delicate appearance. It is mostly available in mildly moist areas, but it does well in drier locations too. It can be easily spotted as it grows intertwined and its flowers have white petals, shaped like stars. The petals are lobed, and at a fist look it may appear it has 10 petals instead of 5, so look carefully. The leaves are oval and pointy. It varies a lot in size, as it can be anything from 4 to 25 inches high. It is regularly found in fields, pastures, lawns and even waste areas. The leaves are the only edible and nutritious part of the plant. They can be eaten raw, but they also make a great addition to salads or cooked food. They are similar to spinach, and can be cooked as such. They contain vitamin A and C, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin and fibers. 99

100 88. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) The name of this plant is not random, but it was given because of the effects it has on household felines. If cats eat it, they tend to become agitated; curiously, it has the opposite effect on humans. It has white-grey flowers (gathered in clusters) and a minty odor. The stem is erect and covered in fine, white hairs. The leaves can be silvery (mostly thanks to the white hairs on the ventral side) and can range in shape from elongated to heart-shaped. It is best adapted to well-drained soils and sunny areas (near fields, streams and even in waste areas). The young leaves are very aromatic (minty-flavored) and are edible. You can eat them raw or toss them into all sorts of salads. The old leaves can be dried, chopped and used as seasoning for home cooked meals. Both types of leaves can be brewed into tea. The catnip is a regular cocktail of nutrients, as it contains vitamins A, C and B-Complex, magnesium, phosphorus, and sodium. 100

101 89. Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) The pokeweed (aka. American pokeweed) is a plant native to Eastern US and can be very nutritious only if cooked properly. It is a toxic plant and it should be responsibly identified and cooked before human consumption. The plant can grow as tall as 8 feet in height and it can be identified thanks to its red-purple stems and the large, white taproot. The flowers have white petal-like structures and erect stamens and the leaves are green, alternate and can give out an unpleasant odor. The fruits are berries gathered in clusters, dark purple in color and highly poisonous. They are found in pastures, woodlands and waste places. The shoots can be gathered in spring and roots in the fall, but do not eat without properly cooking them first! They contain a highly toxic compound, which gets destroyed by cooking! It contains vitamin A and C, riboflavin and thiamin. 101

102 90. Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) This wild plant has gotten a lot of bad reputation throughout the years thanks to an ongoing experiment on lab rats, which showed that huge quantities of sassafras can actually cause cancer. Although true, this is valid only in rats, not at all humans. So if you stumble across some sassafras, do not worry about eating it. The sassafras trees have been known to live hundreds of years and grow to be feet tall. The bark is deep-brown and the yellow-green flowers grow in bunches scattered on the branches. The leaves are bright green and tri-lobed. The fruits are darkblue and grow on scarlet stalks. The sassafras is primarily known as the main flavor ingredient for root beer or root tea. Almost all of the plant is edible if cooked: the roots, the leaves, the flowers and even the stems. It has various nutrients and minerals. 102

103 91. Daylily (Hemerocallis fulva) The daylily is plant native to Asia, but it has been brought for cultivation purposes to North America as well. However due to its tenacity, it escaped the field and spread out over a large portion of the US and Canada alike, reason why it received the label of invasive weed. It is known by many names: tawny daylily, tiger daylily, fulvous daylily, railroad lily and ditch lily. It has a very good-looking orange flower (with a pale center), widely used throughout the world for ornamental purposes. The leaves are linear and broad and the root is tuberous. It prefers crowded spaces, like woods, roadsides and disturbed areas in general. The tubers are reserves of nutrients which plants tend to make, so they should be your main focus. Unlike potatoes, you do not have to peel them, just clean and cook. The young shoots, leaves and flowers are best cooked. They contain vitamin A, iron, proteins and carbs. 103

104 92. Chestnut (Castanea species) The chestnut genus is made up of a series of shrubs and trees at home in the temperate zones of the northern hemisphere. The species are spread throughout Europe (Castanea sativa), the US (Castanea dentata, Castanea pumila, Castanea alnifolia, Castanea ashei, Castanea floridana, Castanea paupispina) and Asia (Castanea crenata, Castanea mollissima, Castanea davidii, Castanea henryi, Castanea seguinii). The leaves are simple, oval or lance-shaped and serrated on the margins. The fruit is contained in a capsule covered in very sharp spines. The fruit is composed mainly of white and edible flesh. The American chestnut ((Castanea dentate) has edible seeds (aka. nuts). They can be consumed raw or roasted, but make sure to peel the tough brown skin before eating. They are rich in vitamin C, niacin, carbs, potassium, phosphorus and calcium. 104

105 93. Monkey flower (Mimulus genus) The Mimulus genus is comprised of a lot of species (around 150) which are mainly divided in two large groups: the first one being comprised of the species predominant in North America, as the second one resides mainly in central Australia. They are mostly herbaceous plants, except a few representatives which present wooden stems. The monkey flower received its name as the flower resemble a monkey s face; they have 5 petals that do not touch each other and the colors may vary from purple to white. Most of the species have a distinct musky odor. Most species prefer wet, rich soils; others do well in even in shallow waters. The plant gathers reserves of nutrients in their leaves and stems. The leaves and flowers can be eaten raw or cooked; they contain high amounts of sodium chloride and other salts as well. They make an excellent addition to home cooked meals. 105

106 94. Miner s lettuce (Claytonia perfoliata) The miner s lettuce is a plant very common to many places throughout the US, which explains its many popular names: miner's lettuce, Indian lettuce, spring beauty or winter purslane. The main feature of the plant is the fact that it forms a rosette bellow the pink or white flowers. It has erect green stems and the rosette is made up by two leaves that appear to be fused together. The plant s height can range from 0.5 to 16 inches. It is abundant during the spring and it can be found in damp and shady areas. The aerial organs of the plant are edible (the leaves, the stalks and the flowers). The leaves are just as edible raw as they would be cooked. They make a great salad ingredient as well; younger leaves are better, as they will get bitterer with age. The stalk and the flowers are best eaten raw. It holds important amounts of vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, and iron. 106

107 95. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) The dandelion is a small weed considered a nuisance in North America, as well as Europe and Asia. It is very little pretentious and it can spread quite rapidly. It is easy to spot erect, soft green stem and not actual flowers, but an inflorescence made up of a multitude of small yellow petals on a disc. The leaves are basal, small and hairless; they are setup in a rosette just above the root. They can grow as high as 12 inches. It is a plant that is common in the US, Canada, Europe and Asia and thrives in fertile gardens or lawns, cultivated fields and woods. The whole plant is edible, and it is extremely nutritious. The leaves can be equally eaten raw or cooked. The flowers can be brewed into tea or turned into juice. The root is best dried, ground and used as a coffee substitute. It contains massive amounts of vitamin A and K, iron, magnesium, zinc, potassium and calcium. 107

108 96. Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) The Carya illinoinensis is a species of hickory which is originally from Mexico, but with time it spread across south-central North America as well. The flowers are not the main focal point in determining the plant, but rather the leaves and the fruits. The leaves are bright green, elongated, with smooth edges. The pecans (seeds) grow in green pods which in time, ripen, turn brown and open (so the seeds fall onto the ground). Pecan trees usually grow around 30 feet tall, but in some extreme cases they can get to be as tall as 100 feet tall. The seeds of the pecan are edible and have a rich flavor. They can be eaten raw (even collected from the ground), as well as part of various dishes or deserts. It has a high commercial value thanks to the high amounts of nutrients it possesses: vitamin E and K, niacin, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and potassium. 108

109 97. Chufa (Cyperus esculentus) The Chufa plant is widely spread all across the face of the planet, either as a crop or as a weed. Because of the vast areal it covers, it has several names: or earth almond, nut grass, tiger nut sedge, or yellow nut sedge. It is a tuberous plant (with the tuber growing under the earth of course); from the tuber tall and erect stems sprout. The stems are easily identifiable as they are triangular in section. The leaves are tough and fibrous, and are often mistaken for blades of grass. The roots are long and thin. They grow in soils that are sandy and moist and cannot stand too much salinity. It can be found in Southern Europe, Africa, India and even Madagascar. The tubers are packed with all sorts of nutrients. They can be eaten raw or cooked, just soak them in water first, to moisten them up a bit. They can also be dried and stored or turned into a cold drink. They are rich in vitamins C and E, potassium, phosphorus and proteins. 109

110 98. Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) The persimmon is a plant that has been cultivated by Native Americans for centuries for its wood and fruit. It is known by many names: American persimmon, common persimmon, eastern persimmon, simmon, possumwood and sugar-plum. It can be determined by its round or oval fruit, that can be yellow-orange or even blue; it is normally juicy with 1 8 seeds. The leaves are simple, alternate, long, pointed at one end, oval or slightly round. Its wood is durable and dark. It grows in well-drained soil and can be found in many zones throughout the US. The fruit is edible, and can be eaten raw or even as part of various home recipes. It can also be dried and stored. The seeds can be used as a coffee substitute and the leaves can be brewed into tea. It has an overall high concentration of vitamin C, as well as other minerals. 110

111 99. Field / Wild Garlic (Allium Vineale) The field or wild garlic can be spotted by the strong garlic odor it gives off. It is a weed that can be hard to control, as it requires very little sustenance to actually grow and multiply; it is also highly resistant to many forms of herbicide. It does not have a single real flower, but a purple inflorescence made up of several small flowers. The leaves tubular and thin (waxy to the touch) and the stem is long and erect. It can grow as high as 3.5 feet tall. It originated in Europe but it is widely spread in half of the US as well; it grows in meadows, pastures, grain fields, lawns, gardens and even along river streams. The leaves are edible and versatile enough to be eaten raw or cooked. They are mostly used as a garlic substitute. The same goes for the small bulbils, which are just as good in salads or as a part of home cooked meals. It contains high amounts of Vitamin A and C, as well as potassium. 111

112 100. Taro (Colocasia esculenta) The taro is considered a considered to be a very aggressive weed which spreads rapidly. But its scientific name means that this is an edible and nutritious plant by definition (esculenta = specific name for edible plants). It has a solitary and axillary inflorescence and the leaves are arranged in a rosette; they are pointy, lance-shaped and pointed downwards. The roots system is fibrous and rather shallow and at the base it has a fleshy corm. It grows about 3 feet on average and it thrives in welldrained soils, but it can survive in clay or sand as well.it is probably native to Malaysia, but it has also been observed in India, Egypt, as well as Australia and Southeastern US. The corm and leaves are edible, but only if cooked! It contains a highly toxic compound (calcium oxalate), which is neutralized only by 1 - letting the plant sit in cold water over night and 2 cooking the plant thoroughly afterwards! It has vitamin B, E and calcium. 112

113 101. White clover (Trifolium repens) The white clover is an herbaceous plant which also goes by the names of Ladino clover or Dutch clover. The main distinctive feature is the white flower head, which along with age also gets inflections of pink or cream. As the name suggests, the leaves are trifoliate (specific to clovers), smooth and with a long petiole. It grows in many types of soils and is spread all through Europe, Central Asia, North America and New Zeeland. The plant is partially edible. The leaves and the flowers can be a bit changeling to digest raw, but not impossible. It is better to eat them cooked (boiled or roasted) or even added to salads. As far as nutrients go, it has an important amount of vitamin C and various Bs, bioflavonoids, calcium and magnesium. 113

114 Conclusion Knowing as much as possible about nature can be your ticket out of any possible survival scenario that you might find yourself in. Information is power, and this is an immovable truth. Mother Nature can work for you and benefit you immensely; but just as well it can turn against you with vengeance. Many wild plants are the opposite of edible ones, poisonous and dangerous (some even to the touch). Prepare yourself and learn as much as you possibly can, as one wrong bite can cost you dearly. Stay informed and stay safe! 114