Foods From Leaves, Stems and Roots

I. Introduction

What leaves, stems and roots can you eat? And, if you do, when?

A. Overview of plant body/organs

II. Structure and Function in Plants

A. Leaves

1. Features

leaf structure internal anatomy

stomates

meristems leaf meristem transport in phloem anti-herbivory

2. Examples of Leaf Crops

a. Brassicaceae (Mustard Family)

• cabbage, collards, Brussel sprouts, kale, kohlrabi, broccoli, cauliflower, bok-choi

b. Asteraceae

• lettuce, chicory, endive

c. Apiaceae (Carrot Family)

• celery etc.

d. Chenopodiaceae (Goosefoot Family)

B. Stems

1. Features

stem structure

meristems lateral

suberin

2. Examples of Stem Crops

a. Asteraceae

b. Liliaceae

onion

crying

c. Solanaceae

potato

Potato famine phytophthora infestans population of Ireland

d. Poaceae 

Sugar cane

e. yams (Dioscoraceae)

C. Roots

1. Features

root structure

2. Examples of Root Crops

a. Brassicaceae

b. Chenopodiaceae sugar beets

c. Euphorbiaceae

d. Convolulaceae morning glory