Health Benefit: Even seeds are antiseptic but are also poisonous unless cooked; some use to reduce inflammation and a fever; beans are a source of protein. Landscape Use and Favorite Companions: Although China has been growing this vine for centuries, it is now cultivated worldwide; excellent cover crop and nitrogen-fixer Propagation: Easily from seeds; in a frost-free area, it will grow and bear for several years. Interesting Notes: Easy to grow in all types of soil; used as livestock fodder; flowers are grown in America for ornamental purposes; used in floral arrangements.
Lamb’s Quarters, Pigweed, Chenopodium album Family: Beet or Goosefoot family ( Chenopodiaceae ) Native Origin: Europe and Asia; naturalized throughout North America Height: 1 to 3 feet Climate, Habitat: Grows in multiple climates from cool to hot Light Requirements: Full sun to shade Soil Requirements: Grows easily on all types of soils Flower, Color: Insignificant, green and may turn red Edible Parts: Entire plant Culinary Use: Use as spinach; the seeds can be cooked to make a gruel; seeds can be sprinkled on pastries and breads as poppyseed or ground into flour; the seeds can be sprouted; give some to the birds—they also enjoy them. Health Benefit: It is a good source of iron, vitamin C and A; as spinach, the leaves contain a small amount of oxalic acid, so should be cooked before eating; seeds are a rich source of protein, phosphorus, calcium, potassium and niacin. Landscape Use and Favorite Companions: When days become cooler, thousands of tiny seeds will appear; collect the seeds after the frost; to catch the seeds when harvesting, place in a white paper bag. Propagation: Seed Interesting Notes: Closely related to epazote ( Chenopodium ambrosi-
oides)
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SHAMANIC GARDENING