Much of what we eat in the US has come here from all over the world. We’re truly a melting pot of not only people, but foods, as well. Unfortunately this has meant that many delicious native foods have been left behind in the dust. The reason for this is unknown, but may be because people preferred to eat foods they brought with them from their native lands, instead of embracing naturally occurring edibles.

Some of my favorites, beyond persimmons and paw paws are: sunchokes (also called Jerusalem artichokes), huckleberry, chicory, juniper (berries), mulberry, purslane, sorghum, and wild sorrel (actually a nemesis in my yard). You can find some of these foods available at specialty store, natural food stores, and in your own backyard. However, be certain you have a positive identification, as some plants are dangerously poisonous. There are many more food plants native to the US, however, I’ve only listed the unusual ones that I’ve actually eaten.