Peaches (Prunus persica, P. vulgaris) are a member of the Rosaceae (Rose) Family and a close relative of almonds and apples. Nectarines are basically peaches, without the fuzz. Peaches are believed to be native to China, though they were originally...
Peppers (Capsicum annum), also known as Green or Red Peppers are in the Solanaceae (Nightshade) Family and relatives of chilies and paprika. The genus name, Capsicum comes from the Latin. Capsa, meaning, “box” referring to its hollow...
Pineapple (Ananas comosus,) is native to Brazil or Paraguay, and known to the Indians as na-na, meaning “fragrance.” Columbus encountered it on the island of Guadalupe. The Spaniards referred to it as “pina” due to its...
Plums (Prunus domestica) are a member of the Rosaceae (Rose) Family, making them a close relative of apricots and peaches. Believed to have originated in western Asia, in Chinese mythology, plums symbolize wisdom, longevity and resurrection. Plums...
Celery (Apium graveolens) is a member of the Apiaceae (Parsley) Family and a relative of dill and carrots. The genus name, is derived from the Latin, apis, meaning bee, as bees are attracted to its small white flowers. The species name gravelones...
Chayote (Sechium edule) (pronounced chy-O-tay) is also known mirliton, vegetable pear, sapote, huisquil, mango squash, pear squash, and custard marrow. It is a member of the Curcurbitaceae (Gourd) Family. It has a flavor considered a blend of apple...
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are members of the Liliaceae (Lily) Family, which makes them closely related to garlic and onions. The species name schoenoprasum is derived from two Greek words: schoinos, meaning reed-like and prason, meaning leek...
Jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus, P. tuberosus), (pronounced HEE-ka-ma), is native to Central America, where it is also known as Yam Bean or Mexican Turnip. The genus name, Pachyrhizus is derived from the Greek and means “thick root.” The...
Bananas (Musa acuminata, M. sapientum) are native to Malaysia, India, tropical Africa and Australia. Technically, bananas are not from a tree, but from a large perennial herb. They are members of the Musaceae (Banana) Family. They are the second...
Blueberry (Vaccinum myrtillus, V. corymbosum, V. ashei, V. angustifolium) is a member of the Ericaceae (Heath) Family, and relative of cranberries. The genus name, Vaccinium is derived from the Latin, vacca, meaning cow, who relish this plant...
Brigitte Mars