Family: Aster (Asteraceae)
Hardy to Zone 3 to 10
Herbaceous perennial native to and distributed throughout the temperate zones of planet Earth. This is a wild plant that prospers in lush places, like abandoned fields and home yards. A much-respected bitter green for salad or steamed vegetable. Traditional usage (TWM): diuretic, liver support, spring tonic. Sow in the spring by barely covering seeds with soil, tamping and keeping evenly moist and warm until germination, which can take up to 3 weeks. Harvest the leaves as needed, or for maximum return allow to overwinter and harvest the enlarged plant in the spring. Plant prefers part shade to full sun and richly composted soil, and much water.
