![]() Henbit, on the other hand, has more circular green leaves. It can sometimes be confused with henbit (Lamium amplexicaule), but a few identifying characteristics will clear it up every time: the spade-shaped leaves of deadnettle turn a shade of purple and are found in quads that cascade down the square stem. Deadnettle is not actually a nettle at all-it is a member of the mint family, and the entire plant is edible and highly nutritious. Originally hailing from Europe and Asia, this purple-and-green plant with bright purple flowers is now found all over North America. Sidewalks, yards or bursting out of a rockface-invasive hairy bittercress grows wherever it can take hold. It adds a zip to salads and an incredible burst of seasoning to a sandwich, but you don’t have to visit specialty markets to get your hands on this herb. Hairy Bittercress ( Cardamine hirsuta)ĭon’t be fooled by the name! Hairy bittercress is a pleasantly spicy yet mild edible member of the mustard family. Chickweed produces tiny white flowers and tastes almost sweet, like corn silk. Chickweed pops up in the grass and other areas impacted by humans, spreading quickly and creating dense patches. Eating invasives is a great way to try and reduce their numbers, and many of them, like chickweed, are delicious. Chickweed ( Stellaria media)Ĭhickweed is a European invasive that’s a favorite food of chickens and a nice salad choice for people. People use their beautiful colors and soft petals to adorn cakes, make jellies, thicken soups or add a pop of color and vitamins to a spring salad (violets are high in vitamins A and C). They are a nectar source for wildlife and grow in almost every habitat. These little flowers can come in shades of violet, purple, blue, white, yellow and striped. The incredibly variable violet is a treasure of springtime, and the Chesapeake region supports more than 20 different species. Be safe and responsible while foraging, and enjoy exploring the natural world around you. Growing right in our yards and paths are these harbingers of spring-and a lot of them are edible. (Photo by Will Parson/Chesapeake Bay Program)Įach spring as the world comes alive again, wildflowers begin to burst into color at the same time that humans pull out their weedwackers and lawnmowers to chop off their flower tops or rip them out of flowerbeds. Often considered weeds in urban settings, plants like violet, dandelion and henbit can be enjoyed as food. ![]()
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