Gourd family
Botanical name Cucurbitaceae also known as cucurbits Features of gourds Plants of the gourd family are summer crops. They grow as vines or shrubs and have a hollow five ridged stem. Their up to 50 cm big leaves are palmate with 3 to 5 lobes. Leaves, stems, and fruit are often prickly. The stems develop [more]
Knotweed family
Botanical name Polygonaceae Features of knotweeds Knotweeds are a family of plants that grow widespread in temperate regions. The stems are often striped and have several ridges. Most plants in this family are herbs or vines. Knotweeds can grow as perennials. Several species in this family taste quite tart due to a significant content of oxalic [more]
Amaranth family
Botanical name: Amaranthaceae Features of the amaranths: Amaranths are a family of plants that grow widespread from the tropics to the cool temperate regions. Most plants in this family are fairly hardy herbs or small shrubs that tolerate salty soil and drought conditions quite well. They are branching, broad-leaved plants with often egg shaped or [more]
Rhubarb crumble
Here is one of John’s favorite dishes, making use of the beautiful rhubarb that grows in the perennial beds. Use the stalks of the rhubarb, they are really yummy, the leaves are not good for human consumption! Serving 6 people 750 g rhubarb, cut into 2-3 cm chunks 75 g soft brown sugar 1 [more]
Tomato
Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum Description: Tomatoes are part of the nightshade or solanaceaes family. Only the fruit of tomatoes are edible! Flowers, greens and shoots should not be consumed because they contain a toxin. There are varieties that grow like a bush and varieties that grow like vines. Tomato plants are vigorous growers. They produce [more]