by Erin Harper, University of Illinois Extension There are several native plants that are great for landscaping and can provide food. These include nuts from trees such as maple, pecan, and hazelnuts; fruits such as ground cherry, persimmon, and plums; berries: blackberries, raspberries, and elderberry; leafy greens; roots: chicory, garlic, and sassafras; and many more. […]
Edible Plants
Edible (Native) Landscaping – Persimmon
by Erin Harper, University of Illinois Extension Persimmon (Diospyros virginia) are Native to most of the eastern United States, from Connecticut south Florida and west to mid-Kansas. There is a non-native species (Diospyros kaki), native to Asia, which has been widely used in breeding and production in the United States. D. kaki has larger sweeter […]
Edible (Native) Landscaping – American Hazelnut
by Erin Harper, University of Illinois Extension American Hazelnut (Corylus americana) are native eastern United States and Canada, from Manitoba south to Oklahoma and east to the coast (excluding only Florida). Corylus Americana prefers well-drained loam soils in full sun. However, like many of the native trees and shrubs, are tolerant of a wide range […]
Edible (Native) Landscaping: Dandelion
by Erin Harper, University of Illinois Extension Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) originate from Europe but have been naturalized in North America. Many people regard them as a lawn weed, though their culinary popularity is growing. Dandelions are a perennial plant that produces thousands of seeds per plant and can regrow from pieces of taproot. It is […]
