Edible Hedgenettle
Many of us unfortunately do not take the time to appreciate the beauty and practicality of some of the "weeds" that grace our home landscapes.
Florida Betony (aka Florida Hedgenettle), is a common site to see in Florida, hence its name. A perennial herb, this plant grows by seed, underground rhizomes, and tubers. Adaptable to many conditions, it will grow well in sun and partial shade and can handle clay, loam, silt, nutrient rich soils. It prefers moist to dry soils, making this plant pop up in most all soils except for sand and water logged conditions.
While most households try to eradicate it with herbicide treatments, another method of removal is harvesting and eating. This method also encompasses allowing Florida Betony to spread as well. By doing so, you will ensure continual harvests of radishes bi-annually, along with creating dense patches of beautiful native flowers (for FREE!)
The tubers of this plant resemble that of little white grubs. Tubers are best harvested in spring and fall as they tend to take the summer months off. The tubers themselves can taste like jicama or radish, maybe a cross between the both.
A simple little "weed" that when left alone can bring color to the landscape and food for humans and wildlife.
Flowers pop up in spring and fall when the tubers are ready to harvest.
Check out this video to learn more about Florida Betony and how to harvest!
Resources:
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/stachys-floridana/
http://www.eattheweeds.com/florida-betony-150-a-pound/