Exotic Edibles

Hello, World Farmers!

As you wander our nursery, have you glimpsed those hidden exotic edibles among the greenery? Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight some lesser-known yet captivating finds on our shelves. Keep an eye out for them on your next visit!

 

In our nursery, you’ll find a trove of exotic edibles awaiting discovery. From dragon fruit’s vibrant hues to kaffir lime leaves’ aromatic allure, each holds culinary potential. Let’s start with dragon fruit, with its pink skin and speckled flesh concealing a subtly tangy taste. A feast for the eyes and palate alike, it adds a delightful touch to salads and smoothies. Next, kaffir lime leaves, prized for their citrusy fragrance and bold flavour, infuse soups, curries, and cocktails with refreshing zest.

 

Then there’s jackfruit, with its sweet, tropical flavour akin to pineapple and banana. Perfect for sweet and savoury dishes, it offers endless culinary possibilities. But there’s more edibles to explore: tangy tamarillo, delicate lychee, and fragrant pandan leaves, each adding a unique twist to your culinary repertoire.

 

On your next visit, delve into these exotic edibles and unleash your culinary creativity. Who knows what delightful creations you’ll whip up with these fascinating finds?

 

Happy exploring, and don’t forget to tag us in your culinary adventures!

Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon)

Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon)

This plant is used primarily as a tea to treat the common cold, calm stomachs, and relax nerves. It can also be used to cure sore eyes, nausea, rheumatism, colic, indigestion, diarrhoea, feverish illnesses, and even the symptoms of a hangover!

Duchesnea indica (Indian Mock Strawberry)

Duchesnea indica (Indian Mock Strawberry)

Also known as false strawberry or Indian berry, the mock strawberry is widely used to treat insect and snake bites, as well as other skin ailments! This tiny fruit is also tasteless, imparting a flavour somewhat akin to that of watermelon. Fascinating, right?

Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Elephant Foot Yam)

Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Elephant Foot Yam)

Did you know that the elephant foot yam can help lower cholesterol levels and aid in weight loss? Rich in magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and potassium, it also aids in clearing the veins and arterial blockage, as well as sharpening the memory and concentration power!

Clitoria ternatea (Blue Pea)

Clitoria ternatea (Blue Pea)

Chockful of antioxidants, its nutrients can alleviate headaches, conjunctivitis, irregular periods, and indigestion, to name a few. It can also improve eyesight, hair growth, and skin.

Cyclea barbata (Green Grass Jelly)

Cyclea barbata (Green Grass Jelly)

This is where the popular dessert ‘cincau’ comes from. First, boil the dried shoots in water with sugar. The concoction is then strained and left to set. Commonly found in Chinese medical halls, this herbal medicine can be used to treat liver disease, hypertension, diabetes, and joint pain.

Strobilanthes crispus (Black Face General)

Strobilanthes crispus (Black Face General)

Commonly made into a herbal tea, this plant has been proven to possess high levels of antioxidants, anti-AIDS, and anti-cancer properties. Some of its other health benefits include destroying gallstones, maintaining kidney and liver health, lowering cholesterol and diabetes, and treating diarrhoea.

Plectranthus amboinicus (Indian Borage)

Plectranthus amboinicus (Indian Borage)

Chewing on the leaves or brewing tea with them can alleviate nasal congestion, as they help to remove mucus and phlegm and clear out sinuses. This plant has anti-cancer potential, and can also treat skin infections, improve kidney health, and relieve irritable bowel syndrome.

Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens (Purple Basil)

Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens (Purple Basil)

Like other basils, purple basil is packed with vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting and strengthens bones. It also improves your immune and digestive systems and combats ageing and skin ailments.

Hibiscus acetosella (Cranberry Hibiscus)

Hibiscus acetosella (Cranberry Hibiscus)

Both the leaves and flowers of the cranberry hibiscus are edible and can be used raw in salads and stir-fries. Packed with vitamins A and C, it can help improve skin conditions and fight a multitude of skin ailments.

Pereskia bleo (Rose Cactus)

Pereskia bleo (Rose Cactus)

Also known as the Wax Rose, studies have found it to be effective against certain cancers. This versatile leafy cactus can also be used as an insect repellant. Just be careful of the needle-like thorns on its stems; it is said that you can get a fever from just a prick test!