12 Most Unusual Edible Crops in the World

Everyone knows about such common crops as potatoes, beans, rice, etc. But do you know anything about the beneficial properties of mallow or a physalis of all things? These are the cultures that you probably haven’t even heard of. Here are 12 unusual edible crops that you may want to try.

1. Candy tree
Candy trees are popular in Japan, China, and the Himalayas. The fruit of this tree tastes like raisins and literally melts in your mouth. They are also called “Japanese raisins”. Recent studies have shown that Japanese raisin extract lowers blood pressure and can be used to create products for diabetics.

2. Chinese Artichokes
Artichokes are low-calorie vegetables with a high content of starch, sugar, and minerals, making them an excellent source of energy.

3. Indian potatoes
Indian potatoes grow up to 15 cm tall, can be cultivated on mountain slopes and ridges, mainly in gravelly and sandy soils. Roots have a pleasant taste but the peel is a little bitter.

4. Prickly pears
Cactus fruits have an elongated oval shape, they are covered with a thick yellow, purple or red colored shell. There are many small sharp needles on the outside, so they require careful handling. They can be eaten raw in combination with various fruits, used as a dessert.