Category: Plant identification

The term "spider plant" can confusingly refer to at least two different species: the common, ornamental houseplant (*Chlorophytum comosum*) and the edible, leafy vegetable (*Cleome gynandra*). Understanding what part of the spider plant is edible requires proper identification, as only one is a food source.

Despite their similar appearance, ornamental sweet peas belong to a different genus than edible garden peas, and their seeds are toxic if ingested. This crucial botanical distinction is the key to understanding what peas are not edible and preventing accidental poisoning in your garden.

Approximately 135 species make up the *Gaultheria* genus, and correctly identifying them is vital for safe foraging. Specifically, the question 'is creeping snowberry edible?' has a positive answer, provided the species is correctly identified and not mistaken for its poisonous counterpart.

Did you know that while true wild grapes are edible, several highly toxic plants produce berries that are frequently mistaken for them? Correct identification is crucial for anyone who forages, as consuming the wrong berry can lead to severe illness or worse.

The creeping fig, scientifically known as *Ficus pumila*, is a popular ornamental vine with a potentially dangerous secret. The plant contains a milky sap that can cause skin irritation. This article explores whether this plant is edible and discusses its safety.

Deadly nightshade, or *Atropa belladonna*, has a notoriously toxic history, with its berries resembling edible fruits, posing a significant risk to the unwary forager. Many other poisonous and non-poisonous plants are also frequently mistaken for various nightshade species, making proper identification critical for safety in gardens and wild spaces alike.

Despite its inviting, maple-syrup-like scent, the tea made from sweet everlasting is notably bitter and astringent, not a pleasant culinary edible. Exploring whether sweet everlasting is edible reveals a long history of traditional medicine, rather than modern food use.

The use of Turkey rhubarb for its laxative effects dates back over 2,000 years, a testament to its long-standing importance in traditional medicine. This powerhouse herb, formally known as *Rheum palmatum*, is recognized by several other names, most notably Chinese rhubarb and Da Huang.

The common pignut, or *Conopodium majus*, is a small, wild plant known to have edible, chestnut-like tubers beneath the soil. For centuries, foragers, including children and wildlife like badgers, have sought out these wild treats, often likened to hazelnuts in taste. However, its identity is easily confused with other, more dangerous plants in the same carrot family.

While most people are familiar with the bay leaves found in the grocery store, a native North American species has its own fragrant appeal. But is swamp bay edible, and can it be used as a cooking substitute? The leaves of the swamp bay (Persea palustris) are indeed aromatic and have been historically used for both culinary and medicinal purposes, but its toxic fruits and several poisonous lookalikes require careful identification.