Difference between revisions of "Vegetable" - New World Encyclopedia

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[[Image:Vegetables dsc01560-nevit.jpg|thumb|250px|A plate of vegetables]]
 
[[Image:Vegetables dsc01560-nevit.jpg|thumb|250px|A plate of vegetables]]
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'''Vegetable''' in a general and common sense refers any edible part (root, leaves, stem, flowers, seeds, bulbs, fruit) of [[herbaceous]] [[plant]]s consumed as [[food]] by [[human]]s, as well as to the plant itself that is cultivated for an edible part. However, vegetable is a [[culinary art|culinary]] term moreso than one of [[taxonomy#scientific or biological classification|scientific classification]], and its use is somewhat arbitrary and subjective. Though the exceptions are many, in general, vegetables are thought of as being savory and not [[sweet]].
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'''Vegetable''' in a general and common sense refers to any edible part ([[root]], [[leaf|leaves]], stem, [[flower]]s, [[seed]]s, bulbs, [[fruit]]) of [[herbaceous]] [[plant]]s consumed as [[food]] by [[human]]s, as well as to the plant itself that is cultivated for an edible part. However, vegetable is a [[culinary art|culinary]] term more so than one of [[taxonomy#scientific or biological classification|scientific classification]], and its use is somewhat arbitrary and subjective. Though the exceptions are many, in general, vegetables are thought of as being savory and not [[sweet]].  
  
 
[[Mushroom]]s, though belonging to the biological kingdom [[fungi]], are also commonly considered vegetables. [[Nut (fruit)|Nut]]s, [[cereal|grain]]s, [[herb]]s, and [[spice]]s are normally not considered vegetables.
 
[[Mushroom]]s, though belonging to the biological kingdom [[fungi]], are also commonly considered vegetables. [[Nut (fruit)|Nut]]s, [[cereal|grain]]s, [[herb]]s, and [[spice]]s are normally not considered vegetables.
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Vegetables are an essential part of good [[nutrition]]. Longevity studies have shown that correlates of long life include consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and a World Health Organization (2005) statement on diet recommends increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Good health requires individuals to exhibit discipline in their eating habits.
 
Vegetables are an essential part of good [[nutrition]]. Longevity studies have shown that correlates of long life include consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and a World Health Organization (2005) statement on diet recommends increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Good health requires individuals to exhibit discipline in their eating habits.
  
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Since “vegetable” is not a [[botany|botanical]] term, there is no contradiction in referring to a [[plant]] part as a [[fruit]] while also being considered a vegetable. Given this general rule of thumb, vegetables can include [[leaf|leaves]] ([[lettuce]]), [[stem]]s ([[asparagus]]), [[root]]s ([[carrots]]), [[flower]]s ([[broccoli]]), [[bulb]]s ([[garlic]]), [[seed]]s ([[pea]]s and [[bean]]s), and of course the botanical [[fruit]]s like [[cucumber]]s, [[squash (vegetable)|squash]], [[pumpkin]]s, and capsicums.  
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Since “vegetable” is not a [[botany|botanical]] term, there is no contradiction in referring to a [[plant]] part as a [[fruit]] while also being considered a vegetable. Given this general rule of thumb, vegetables can include [[leaf|leaves]] ([[lettuce]]), [[stem]]s ([[asparagus]]), [[root]]s ([[carrots]]), [[flower]]s ([[broccoli]]), [[bulb]]s ([[garlic]]), [[seed]]s ([[pea]]s and [[bean]]s), and of course the botanical fruits like [[cucumber]]s, [[squash (vegetable)|squash]], [[pumpkin]]s, and capsicums.  
  
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[[Image:Fruitandveg.png|thumb|250px|right|Venn diagram representing the relationship between (botanical) fruits and vegetables. Botanical fruits that are not vegetables are culinary fruits.]]
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The merit of the ongoing question, "''is it a fruit, or is it a vegetable?''," has even found its way before the bench of the [[United States Supreme Court]] which ruled unanimously in ''Nix v. Hedden, 1883'', that a [[tomato]] is a vegetable for the purposes of 1883 Tariff Act even though botanically, a tomato is a fruit.  
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The merit of the ongoing question, "''is it a fruit, or is it a vegetable?''", has even found its way before the bench of the [[United States Supreme Court]] which ruled unanimously in ''Nix v. Hedden, 1883'', that a [[tomato]] is a vegetable for the purposes of 1883 Tariff Act even though botanically, a tomato is a fruit.
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{{Toc}}
  
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In a broad, historical, and sometimes literary sense, vegetable also has been used to refer to any plant or plant part, in the sense of "vegetable matter" or "vegetable kingdom."  
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In a broad, historical, and sometimes literary sense, vegetable also has been used to refer to any plant or plant part, in the sense of "vegetable matter" or "vegetable kingdom."
  
 
[[Agriculture|Commercial production]] of vegetables is a branch of [[horticulture]] called ''olericulture''. Vegetarianism is the practice of not consuming meat, with or without the use of other animal derivatives, such as dairy products or eggs.
 
[[Agriculture|Commercial production]] of vegetables is a branch of [[horticulture]] called ''olericulture''. Vegetarianism is the practice of not consuming meat, with or without the use of other animal derivatives, such as dairy products or eggs.
  
 
==Etymology==  
 
==Etymology==  
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[[Image:Tomatos in vegie garden.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Tomato]]es growing in a vegetable garden]]
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[[Image:Tomatos in vegie garden.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Tomato]]es growing in a vegetable garden.]]
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Vegetable comes from Latin ''vegetabilis'' (animated) and from ''vegetare'' (enliven), which is derived from ''vegetus'' (active), in reference to the process of a plant growing. This in turn derives from the Proto-Indo-European base ''*weg-'' or ''*wog-'', which is also the source of the English ''wake'', meaning "not sleep."  
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Vegetable comes from [[Latin]] ''vegetabilis'' (animated) and from ''vegetare'' (enliven), which is derived from ''vegetus'' (active), in reference to the process of a plant growing. This in turn derives from the Proto-Indo-European base ''*weg-'' or ''*wog-'', which is also the source of the English ''wake'', meaning "not sleep."  
  
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The word ''vegetable'' was first recorded in print in [[English language|English]] in the 14th century. The meaning of "plant grown for food" was not established until the 18th century (Ayto 1993).
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The word ''vegetable'' was first recorded in print in [[English language|English]] in the fourteenth century. The meaning of "plant grown for food" was not established until the eighteenth century (Ayto 1993).
  
 
==Vegetables in the diet==
 
==Vegetables in the diet==
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The green [[color]] of leafy vegetables is due to the presence of the green [[pigment]] [[chlorophyll]]. Chlorophyll is affected by [[pH]] and changes to olive green in [[acid]] conditions, and bright green in [[alkaline]] conditions. Some of the acids are released in steam during cooking, particularly if cooked without a cover.
 
The green [[color]] of leafy vegetables is due to the presence of the green [[pigment]] [[chlorophyll]]. Chlorophyll is affected by [[pH]] and changes to olive green in [[acid]] conditions, and bright green in [[alkaline]] conditions. Some of the acids are released in steam during cooking, particularly if cooked without a cover.
  
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The yellow/orange colors of [[fruit]]s and [[vegetable]]s are due to the presence of [[carotenoid]]s, which are also affected by normal cooking processes or changes in pH.
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The yellow/orange colors of [[fruit]]s and vegetables are due to the presence of [[carotenoid]]s, which are also affected by normal cooking processes or changes in pH.
  
 
The red/blue coloring of some fruits and vegetables (e.g. [[blackberry|blackberries]] and red [[cabbage]]) are due to [[anthocyanin]]s, which are sensitive to changes in pH. When pH is neutral, the pigments are purple; when acidic, red; and when alkaline, blue. These pigments are very water soluble.
 
The red/blue coloring of some fruits and vegetables (e.g. [[blackberry|blackberries]] and red [[cabbage]]) are due to [[anthocyanin]]s, which are sensitive to changes in pH. When pH is neutral, the pigments are purple; when acidic, red; and when alkaline, blue. These pigments are very water soluble.
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[[Potato|Potatoes]] and other root vegetables should be stored in a dark, cool, and dry place to prevent [[mold]], greening, and sprouting.  
 
[[Potato|Potatoes]] and other root vegetables should be stored in a dark, cool, and dry place to prevent [[mold]], greening, and sprouting.  
  
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During storage leafy vegetables lose moisture and vitamin C degrades rapidly. They should be stored for as short a time as possible in a cool place in a container, such as a plastic bag.
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During storage leafy vegetables lose moisture and vitamin C degrades rapidly. They should be stored for as short a time as possible in a cool place in a container, such as a plastic bag.
  
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Many root vegetables can be stored through winter in a root cellar. Care should be taken in understanding the properties and vulnerabilities of the particular roots to be stored. Many can last through to early spring and be nearly as nutritious as when fresh.
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Many root vegetables can be stored through winter in a root cellar. Care should be taken in understanding the properties and vulnerabilities of the particular roots to be stored. Many can last through to early spring and be nearly as nutritious as when fresh.
  
 
==List of vegetables==
 
==List of vegetables==
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A vegetable can be any of the major plant parts—[[root]], [[stem]], [[leaf]], [[flower]], [[fruit]], or [[seed]]. Vegetables are usually eaten during the main part of a meal while culinary fruits are usually sweet and eaten as desserts, snacks, or juices. There are often exceptions, e.g. vegetables can be used in desserts such as sweet potato pie, sweet green tomato pie, and sweet eggplant pie. Vegetables are also used in vegetable juices.
 
A vegetable can be any of the major plant parts—[[root]], [[stem]], [[leaf]], [[flower]], [[fruit]], or [[seed]]. Vegetables are usually eaten during the main part of a meal while culinary fruits are usually sweet and eaten as desserts, snacks, or juices. There are often exceptions, e.g. vegetables can be used in desserts such as sweet potato pie, sweet green tomato pie, and sweet eggplant pie. Vegetables are also used in vegetable juices.
  
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===Western Brassicas===  
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===Western Brassicas===
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[[Image:Fractal Broccoli.jpg|150px|thumb|Closeup of romanesco broccoli.]]  
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[[Image:Fractal Broccoli.jpg|200px|thumb|Closeup of romanesco broccoli.]]
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* [[Broccoli]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Italica group)  
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* [[Broccoli]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Italica group)
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* [[Brussels sprout]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Gemmifera group)  
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* [[Brussels sprout]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Gemmifera group)
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* [[Cabbage]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Capitata group)  
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* [[Cabbage]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Capitata group)
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* [[Cauliflower]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Botrytis group)  
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* [[Cauliflower]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Botrytis group)
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* [[Kale]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Acephala group)  
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* [[Kale]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Acephala group)
 
* Rapini (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''ruvo'')
 
* Rapini (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''ruvo'')
  
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===Asian Brassicas=== 
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* [[Kai-lan|Kai-lan]] (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''alboglabra'') 
 +
* [[Bok choy|Bok choy]] (also spelt ''Bok choi'')(''Brassica rapa'' var. ''chinensis'') (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''pekinensis'') 
 +
* [[Komatsuna]] (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''perviridis'') 
 +
* [[Brassica rapa|Mizuna greens]] (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''nipposinica'')
 +
* [[Mustard plant|Oriental mustard]] ''(Brassica juncea)''
  
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===Asian Brassicas===  
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===Leafy and salad vegetables===
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* [[Kai-lan|Kai-lan]]* (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''alboglabra'')  
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[[Image:Iceberg lettuce in SB.jpg|thumb|Iceberg lettuce field in Northern Santa Barbara County.]] 
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* [[Bok choy|Bok choy]]* (also spelt ''Bok choi'')(''Brassica rapa'' var. ''chinensis'') (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''pekinensis'')  
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[[Image:Spinacia oleracea Spinazie bloeiend.jpg|thumb|Spinach in flower]] 
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* [[Komatsuna]]* (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''perviridis'')  
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* [[Amaranth]] ''(Amaranthus cruentus)'' 
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* [[Brassica rapa|Mizuna greens]]* (''Brassica rapa'' var. ''nipposinica'')  
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* [[Arugula]] ''(Eruca sativa)'' 
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* [[Mustard plant|Oriental mustard]] (''Brassica juncea'')
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* [[Vernonia|Bitterleaf]] ''(Vernonia calvoana)'' 
 +
* [[Catsear]] ''(Hypochaeris radicata)''
 +
* [[Celtuce]] (''Lactuca sativa'' var. ''asparagina'')
 +
* [[Basella alba|Ceylon spinach]] ''(Basella alba)'' 
 +
* [[Chicory]] ''(Cichorium intybus)''
 +
* [[Malva|Chinese Mallow]] ''(Malva verticillata)'' 
 +
* [[Chrysanthemum]] ''(Chrysanthemum coronarium)'' 
 +
* [[Corn salad]] ''(Valerianella locusta)''
 +
* [[Garden cress|Cress]] ''(Lepidium sativum)'' 
 +
* [[Dandelion]] ''(Taraxacum officinale)'' 
 +
* [[Endive]] ''(Cichorium endivia)'' 
 +
* [[Epazote]] ''(Chenopodium ambrosioides)'' 
 +
* [[Fat Hen|Fat hen]] ''(Chenopodium album)'' 
 +
* [[Fiddlehead]] ''(Pteridium aquilinum, Athyrium esculentum)'' 
 +
* [[Telfairia occidentalis|Fluted pumpkin]] ''(Telfairia occidentalis)'' 
 +
* [[Golden samphire]] ''(Inula crithmoides)'' 
 +
* [[Good King Henry]] ''(Chenopodium bonus-henricus)'' 
 +
* [[Ice Plant|Iceplant]] ''(Mesembryanthemum crystallinum)'' 
 +
* [[Baobab|Kuka]] (''Adansonia'' spp.) 
 +
* [[Talinum fruticosum|Lagos bologi]] ''(Talinum fruticosum)'' 
 +
* [[Land cress]] ''(Barbarea verna)''
 +
* [[Lettuce]] ''(Lactuca sativa)'' 
 +
* [[Houttuynia cordata|Lizard's tail]] ''(Houttuynia cordata)'' 
 +
* [[Corchorus|Melokhia]] ''(Corchorus olitorius, Corchorus capsularis)''
 +
* [[Sinapis|Mustard]] ''(Sinapis alba)'' 
 +
* [[Tetragonia|New Zealand Spinach]] ''(Tetragonia tetragonioides)'' 
 +
* [[Atriplex|Orache]] ''(Atriplex hortensis)'' 
 +
* [[Radicchio]] ''(Cichorium intybus)'' 
 +
* [[Rock samphire|Samphire]] ''(Crithmum maritimum)'' 
 +
* [[Rapeseed|Salad rape]] ''(Brassica napus)''
 +
* [[Sea Beet|Sea beet]] (''Beta vulgaris'' subsp. ''maritima'')
 +
* [[Seakale]] ''(Crambe maritima)'' 
 +
* [[Crassocephalum|Sierra Leone bologi]] (''Crassocephalum'' spp.) 
 +
* [[Celosia|Soko]] ''(Celosia argentea)'' 
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* [[Sorrel]] ''(Rumex acetosa)''
 +
* [[Spinach]] ''(Spinacia oleracea)'' 
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* [[Portulaca oleracea|Summer purslane]] ''(Portulaca oleracea)'' 
 +
* [[Chard|Swiss chard]] (''Beta vulgaris'' subsp. ''cicla'' var. ''flavescens'')
 +
* [[Watercress]] ''(Nasturtium officinale)'' 
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* [[Ipomoea aquatica|Water spinach]] ''(Ipomoea aquatica)''
 +
* [[Miner's lettuce|Winter purslane]] ''(Claytonia perfoliata)''
  
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===Leafy and salad vegetables=== 
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===Fruiting and flowering vegetables===
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[[Image:Iceberg lettuce in SB.jpg|thumb|Iceberg lettuce field in Northern Santa Barbara County]] 
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[[Image:Avocado.jpeg|thumb|Avocado fruit (cv. 'Fuerte'); left: whole, right: in section]]
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[[Image:Spinacia oleracea Spinazie bloeiend.jpg|thumb|Spinach in flower]] 
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[[Image:Pumpkins.jpg|thumb|Pumpkins]]
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* [[Amaranth]]* (''Amaranthus cruentus'') 
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* [[Armenian Cucumber|Armenian cucumber]] (''Cucumis melo'' Flexuosus group)
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* [[Arugula]]* (''Eruca sativa'') 
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* [[Eggplant]] or Aubergine ''(Solanum melongena)''  
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* [[Vernonia|Bitterleaf]]* (''Vernonia calvoana'') 
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* [[Avocado]] ''(Persea americana)''
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* [[Catsear]]* (''Hypochaeris radicata'') 
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* [[Bitter melon]] ''(Momordica charantia)''
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* [[Celtuce]]* (''Lactuca sativa'' var. ''asparagina'') 
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* [[Caigua]] ''(Cyclanthera pedata)''
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* [[Basella alba|Ceylon spinach]]* (''Basella alba'') 
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* [[Cayenne pepper]] ''(Capsicum frutescens)''
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* [[Chicory]]* (''Cichorium intybus'') 
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* [[Chayote]] ''(Sechium edule)''
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* [[Malva|Chinese Mallow]]* (''Malva verticillata'') 
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* [[Chile pepper]] (''Capsicum annuum'' Longum group)
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* [[Chrysanthemum]] (''Chrysanthemum coronarium'') 
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* [[Cucumber]] ''(Cucumis sativus)''
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* [[Corn salad]]* (''Valerianella locusta'') 
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* [[Globe Artichoke]] ''(Cynara scolymus)''
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* [[Garden cress|Cress]]* (''Lepidium sativum'') 
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* [[Luffa]] ''(Luffa acutangula, Luffa aegyptiaca)''
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* [[Dandelion]] (''Taraxacum officinale'') 
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* [[Cucurbita ficifolia|Malabar gourd]] ''(Cucurbita ficifolia)''
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* [[Endive]] (''Cichorium endivia'') 
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* [[Squash (fruit)|Marrow]] ''(Cucurbita pepo)''
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* [[Epazote]]* (''Chenopodium ambrosioides'') 
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* [[Trichosanthes dioica|Parwal]] ''(Trichosanthes dioica)''
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* [[Fat Hen|Fat hen]]* (''Chenopodium album'') 
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* [[Coccinia grandis|Perennial cucumber]] ''(Coccinia grandis)''
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* [[Fiddlehead]]* (''Pteridium aquilinum, Athyrium esculentum'') 
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* [[Pumpkin]] ''(Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita pepo)''
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* [[Telfairia occidentalis|Fluted pumpkin]]* (''Telfairia occidentalis'') 
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* [[Snake gourd]] ''(Trichosanthes cucumerina)''
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* [[Golden samphire]]* (''Inula crithmoides'') 
+
* [[Sweetcorn]] ''(Zea mays)''
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* [[Good King Henry]]* (''Chenopodium bonus-henricus'') 
 
−
* [[Ice Plant|Iceplant]]* (''Mesembryanthemum crystallinum'') 
 
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* [[Baobab|Kuka]]* (''Adansonia'' spp.) 
 
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* [[Talinum fruticosum|Lagos bologi]]* (''Talinum fruticosum'') 
 
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* [[Land cress]]* (''Barbarea verna'')
 
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* [[Lettuce]] (''Lactuca sativa'') 
 
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* [[Houttuynia cordata|Lizard's tail]]* (''Houttuynia cordata'') 
 
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* [[Corchorus|Melokhia]]* (''Corchorus olitorius, Corchorus capsularis'') 
 
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* [[Sinapis|Mustard]]* (''Sinapis alba'') 
 
−
* [[Tetragonia|New Zealand Spinach]]* (''Tetragonia tetragonioides'') 
 
−
* [[Atriplex|Orache]]* (''Atriplex hortensis'') 
 
−
* [[Radicchio]]* (''Cichorium intybus'') 
 
−
* [[Rock samphire|Samphire]]* (''Crithmum maritimum'') 
 
−
* [[Rapeseed|Salad rape]]* (''Brassica napus'') 
 
−
* [[Sea Beet|Sea beet]]* (''Beta vulgaris'' subsp. ''maritima'') 
 
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* [[Seakale]]* (''Crambe maritima'') 
 
−
* [[Crassocephalum|Sierra Leone bologi]]* (''Crassocephalum'' spp.) 
 
−
* [[Celosia|Soko]]* (''Celosia argentea'') 
 
−
* [[Sorrel]] (''Rumex acetosa'') 
 
−
* [[Spinach]] (''Spinacia oleracea'') 
 
−
* [[Portulaca oleracea|Summer purslane]]* (''Portulaca oleracea'') 
 
−
* [[Chard|Swiss chard]] (''Beta vulgaris'' subsp. ''cicla'' var. ''flavescens'') 
 
−
* [[Watercress]] (''Nasturtium officinale'') 
 
−
* [[Ipomoea aquatica|Water spinach]]* (''Ipomoea aquatica'') 
 
−
* [[Miner's lettuce|Winter purslane]]* (''Claytonia perfoliata'')
 
−
 
 
−
===Fruiting and flowering vegetables===  
 
−
[[Image:Avocado.jpeg|thumb|Avocado fruit (cv. 'Fuerte'); left: whole, right: in section]]  
 
−
[[Image:Pumpkins.jpg|thumb|Pumpkins]]  
 
−
* [[Armenian Cucumber|Armenian cucumber]]* (''Cucumis melo'' Flexuosus group)  
 
−
* [[Eggplant]] or Aubergine (''Solanum melongena'')
 
−
* [[Avocado]] (''Persea americana'') 
 
−
* [[Bitter melon]]* (''Momordica charantia'') 
 
−
* [[Caigua]]* (''Cyclanthera pedata'') 
 
−
* [[Cayenne pepper]] (''Capsicum frutescens'') 
 
−
* [[Chayote]]* (''Sechium edule'') 
 
−
* [[Chile pepper]] (''Capsicum annuum'' Longum group)  
 
−
* [[Cucumber]] (''Cucumis sativus'') 
 
−
* [[Globe Artichoke]]* (''Cynara scolymus'')
 
−
* [[Luffa]]* (''Luffa acutangula, Luffa aegyptiaca'')
 
−
* [[Cucurbita ficifolia|Malabar gourd]]* (''Cucurbita ficifolia'')
 
−
* [[Squash (fruit)|Marrow]]* (''Cucurbita pepo'')
 
−
* [[Trichosanthes dioica|Parwal]]* (''Trichosanthes dioica'')
 
−
* [[Coccinia grandis|Perennial cucumber]] (''Coccinia grandis'')
 
−
* [[Pumpkin]] (''Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita pepo'')
 
−
* [[Snake gourd]]* (''Trichosanthes cucumerina'')
 
−
* [[Sweetcorn]]* (''Zea mays'')
 
 
* [[Capsicum|Sweet pepper]] (''Capsicum annuum'' Grossum group)
 
* [[Capsicum|Sweet pepper]] (''Capsicum annuum'' Grossum group)
−
* [[Tinda]]* (''Praecitrullus fistulosus'')
+
* [[Tinda]] ''(Praecitrullus fistulosus)''
−
* [[Tomato]] (''Lycopersicon esculentum'')
+
* [[Tomato]] ''(Lycopersicon esculentum)''
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* [[Tomatillo]]* (''Physalis ixocarpa, Physalis philadelphica'')
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* [[Tomatillo]] ''(Physalis ixocarpa, Physalis philadelphica)''
−
* [[Winter melon]]* (''Benincasa hispida'')
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* [[Winter melon]] ''(Benincasa hispida)''
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* [[Cucumis anguria|West Indian gherkin]]* (''Cucumis anguria'')
+
* [[Cucumis anguria|West Indian gherkin]] ''(Cucumis anguria)''
−
* [[Zucchini]] or Courgette (''Cucurbita pepo'')
+
* [[Zucchini]] or Courgette ''(Cucurbita pepo)''
  
 
===Podded vegetables===
 
===Podded vegetables===
 
[[Image:Phaseolus vulgaris seed.jpg|240px|right|thumb|Diversity in dry common beans]]
 
[[Image:Phaseolus vulgaris seed.jpg|240px|right|thumb|Diversity in dry common beans]]
 
[[Image:Soybeanvarieties.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Varieties of soybeans are used for many purposes.]]
 
[[Image:Soybeanvarieties.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Varieties of soybeans are used for many purposes.]]
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* [[Apios americana|American groundnut]]* (''Apios americana'')
+
* [[Apios americana|American groundnut]] ''(Apios americana)''
−
* [[Winged bean|Asparagus pea]]* (''Psophocarpus tetragonolobus'')
+
* [[Winged bean|Asparagus pea]] ''(Psophocarpus tetragonolobus)''
−
* [[Azuki bean]]* (''Vigna angularis'')
+
* [[Azuki bean]] ''(Vigna angularis)''
 
* [[Black-eyed pea]] (''Vigna unguiculata'' subsp. ''unguiculata'')
 
* [[Black-eyed pea]] (''Vigna unguiculata'' subsp. ''unguiculata'')
−
* [[Chickpea]] (''Cicer arietinum'')
+
* [[Chickpea]] ''(Cicer arietinum)''
−
* [[Drumstick (vegetable)|Drumstick]]* (''Moringa oleifera'')
+
* [[Drumstick (vegetable)|Drumstick]] ''(Moringa oleifera)''
−
* [[Hyacinth Bean|Dolichos bean]]* (''Lablab purpureus'')
+
* [[Hyacinth Bean|Dolichos bean]] ''(Lablab purpureus)''
−
* [[Vicia faba|Fava bean]]* (''Vicia faba'')
+
* [[Vicia faba|Fava bean]] ''(Vicia faba)''
−
* [[Common bean|French bean]]* (''Phaseolus vulgaris'')
+
* [[Common bean|French bean]] ''(Phaseolus vulgaris)''
−
* [[Guar]]* (''Cyamopsis tetragonoloba'')
+
* [[Guar]] ''(Cyamopsis tetragonoloba)''
−
* [[Horse gram]]* (''Macrotyloma uniflorum'')
+
* [[Horse gram]] ''(Macrotyloma uniflorum)''
−
* [[Lathyrus sativus|Indian pea]]* (''Lathyrus sativus'')
+
* [[Lathyrus sativus|Indian pea]] ''(Lathyrus sativus)''
−
* [[Lentil]] (''Lens culinaris'')
+
* [[Lentil]] ''(Lens culinaris)''
−
* [[Lima bean]] (''Phaseolus lunatus'')
+
* [[Lima bean]] ''(Phaseolus lunatus)''
−
* [[Moth bean]]* (''Vigna acontifolia'')
+
* [[Moth bean]] ''(Vigna acontifolia)''
−
* [[Mung bean]]* (''Vigna radiata'')
+
* [[Mung bean]] ''(Vigna radiata)''
−
* [[Okra]] (''Abelmoschus esculentus'')
+
* [[Okra]] ''(Abelmoschus esculentus)''
−
* [[Pea]] (''Pisum sativum'')
+
* [[Pea]] ''(Pisum sativum)''
−
* [[Peanut]] (''Arachis hypogaea'')
+
* [[Peanut]] ''(Arachis hypogaea)''  
−
* [[Pigeon pea]]* (''Cajanus cajan'')
+
* [[Pigeon pea]] ''(Cajanus cajan)''
−
* [[Rice bean]]* (''Vigna umbellatta'')
+
* [[Rice bean]] ''(Vigna umbellatta)''  
−
* [[Runner bean]]* (''Phaseolus coccineus'')
+
* [[Runner bean]] ''(Phaseolus coccineus)''
−
* [[Soybean]] (''Glycine max'')
+
* [[Soybean]] ''(Glycine max)''
−
* [[Lupinus mutabilis|Tarwi]]* (''Lupinus mutabilis'')
+
* [[Lupinus mutabilis|Tarwi]] ''(Lupinus mutabilis)''
−
* [[Tepary bean]]* (''Phaseolus acutifolius'')
+
* [[Tepary bean]] ''(Phaseolus acutifolius)''
−
* [[Urad (bean)|Urad bean]]* (''Vigna mungo'')
+
* [[Urad (bean)|Urad bean]] ''(Vigna mungo)''
−
* [[Mucuna pruriens|Velvet bean]]* (''Mucuna pruriens'')
+
* [[Mucuna pruriens|Velvet bean]] ''(Mucuna pruriens)''
−
* [[Yardlong bean]]* (''Vigna unguiculata'' subsp. ''sesquipedalis'')
+
* [[Yardlong bean]] (''Vigna unguiculata'' subsp. ''sesquipedalis'')
  
 
===Bulb and stem vegetables===
 
===Bulb and stem vegetables===
 
[[Image:Garlic.jpg|thumb|230px|right|Garlic bulbs and individual cloves, one peeled.]]
 
[[Image:Garlic.jpg|thumb|230px|right|Garlic bulbs and individual cloves, one peeled.]]
−
* [[Asparagus]] (''Asparagus officinalis'')
+
* [[Asparagus]] ''(Asparagus officinalis)''
−
* [[Cardoon]]* (''Cynara cardunculus'')
+
* [[Cardoon]] ''(Cynara cardunculus)''
−
* [[Celeriac]]* (''Apium graveolens'' var. ''rapaceum'')
+
* [[Celeriac]] (''Apium graveolens'' var. ''rapaceum'')
−
* [[Celery]] (''Apium graveolens'')
+
* [[Celery]] ''(Apium graveolens)''
−
* [[Elephant Garlic]]* (''Allium ampeloprasum'' var. ''ampeloprasum'')
+
* [[Elephant Garlic]] (''Allium ampeloprasum'' var. ''ampeloprasum'')
−
* [[Fennel|Florence fennel]]* (''Foeniculum vulgare'' var. ''dulce'')
+
* [[Fennel|Florence fennel]] (''Foeniculum vulgare'' var. ''dulce'')
−
* [[Garlic]] (''Allium sativum'')
+
* [[Garlic]] ''(Allium sativum)''
−
* [[Kohlrabi]]* (''Brassica oleracea'' Gongylodes group)
+
* [[Kohlrabi]] (''Brassica oleracea'' Gongylodes group)
−
* [[Kurrat]]* (''Allium ampeloprasum'' var. ''kurrat'')
+
* [[Kurrat]] (''Allium ampeloprasum'' var. ''kurrat'')
−
* [[Leek (vegetable)|Leek]]* (''Allium porrum'')
+
* [[Leek (vegetable)|Leek]] ''(Allium porrum)''
−
* [[Nopal]]* (''Opuntia ficus-indica'')
+
* [[Nopal]] ''(Opuntia ficus-indica)''
−
* [[Onion]] (''Allium cepa'')
+
* [[Onion]] ''(Allium cepa)''
−
* [[Ornithogalum pyrenaicum|Prussian asparagus]]* (''Ornithogalum pyrenaicum'')
+
* [[Ornithogalum pyrenaicum|Prussian asparagus]] ''(Ornithogalum pyrenaicum)''
 
* [[Rhubarb]] (''Rheum'' x ''cultorum'')
 
* [[Rhubarb]] (''Rheum'' x ''cultorum'')
−
* [[Shallot]]* (''Allium cepa'' Aggregatum group)
+
* [[Shallot]] (''Allium cepa'' Aggregatum group)
−
* [[Welsh onion]]* (''Allium fistulosum'')
+
* [[Welsh onion]] ''(Allium fistulosum)''
−
* [[Wild leek]]* (''Allium tricoccum'')
+
* [[Wild leek]] ''(Allium tricoccum)''
  
 
===Root and tuberous vegetables===
 
===Root and tuberous vegetables===
−
[[Image:CarrotDiversityLg.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Carrots come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes]]
+
 
 +
[[Image:CarrotDiversityLg.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Carrots come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.]]
 
[[Image:Various types of potatoes for sale.jpg|thumb|250px|Potatoes are one of the most used staple foods.]]
 
[[Image:Various types of potatoes for sale.jpg|thumb|250px|Potatoes are one of the most used staple foods.]]
−
[[Image:Bunch of radishes.jpg|thumb|bunch of radishes]]
+
 
−
* [[Pachyrhizus|Ahipa]]* (''Pachyrhizus ahipa'')
+
* [[Pachyrhizus|Ahipa]] ''(Pachyrhizus ahipa)''
−
* [[Arracacha]]* (''Arracacia xanthorrhiza''))
+
* [[Arracacha]] ''(Arracacia xanthorrhiza)'')
−
* [[Bamboo shoot]]*
+
* [[Bamboo shoot]]
 
* [[Beet|Beetroot]] (''Beta vulgaris'' subsp. ''vulgaris'')
 
* [[Beet|Beetroot]] (''Beta vulgaris'' subsp. ''vulgaris'')
−
* [[Bunium persicum|Black cumin]]* (''Bunium persicum'')
+
* [[Bunium persicum|Black cumin]] ''(Bunium persicum)''
−
* [[Broadleaf arrowhead]]* (''Sagittaria latifolia'')
+
* [[Broadleaf arrowhead]] ''(Sagittaria latifolia)''
−
* [[Canna (plant)|Canna]]* (''Canna'' spp.)
+
* [[Canna (plant)|Canna]] (''Canna'' spp.)
−
* [[Carrot]] (''Daucus carota'')
+
* [[Carrot]] ''(Daucus carota)''
−
* [[Cassava]]* (''Manihot esculenta'')
+
* [[Cassava]] ''(Manihot esculenta)''
−
* [[Chinese artichoke]]* (''Stachys affinis'')
+
* [[Chinese artichoke]] ''(Stachys affinis)''
−
* [[Daikon]]* (''Raphanus sativus'' Longipinnatus group)
+
* [[Daikon]] (''Raphanus sativus'' Longipinnatus group)
−
* [[Lathyrus tuberosus|Earthnut pea]]* (''Lathyrus tuberosus'')
+
* [[Lathyrus tuberosus|Earthnut pea]] ''(Lathyrus tuberosus)''
−
* [[Ensete]]* (''Ensete ventricosum'')
+
* [[Ensete]] ''(Ensete ventricosum)''
−
* [[Ginger]]* (''Zingiber officinale'')
+
* [[Ginger]] ''(Zingiber officinale)''
−
* [[Greater burdock|Gobo]]* (''Arctium lappa'')
+
* [[Greater burdock|Gobo]] ''(Arctium lappa)''
−
* [[Parsley|Hamburg parsley]]* (''Petroselinum crispum'' var. ''tuberosum'')
+
* [[Parsley|Hamburg parsley]] (''Petroselinum crispum'' var. ''tuberosum'')
−
* [[Jerusalem artichoke]]* (''Helianthus tuberosus'')
+
* [[Jerusalem artichoke]] ''(Helianthus tuberosus)''
−
* [[Jícama]]* (''Pachyrhizus erosus'')
+
* [[Jícama]] ''(Pachyrhizus erosus)''
−
* [[Nelumbo nucifera|Lotus root]]* (''Nelumbo nucifera'')
+
* [[Nelumbo nucifera|Lotus root]] ''(Nelumbo nucifera)''
−
* [[Maca]]* (''Lepidium meyenii'')
+
* [[Maca]] ''(Lepidium meyenii)''
−
* [[Xanthosoma|Malanga]]* (''Xanthosoma'' sp.)
+
* [[Xanthosoma|Malanga]] (''Xanthosoma'' sp.)
−
* [[Mashua]]* (''Tropaeolum tuberosum'')
+
* [[Mashua]] ''(Tropaeolum tuberosum)''
−
* [[Mirabilis (plant)|Mauka]]* (''Mirabilis extensa'')
+
* [[Mirabilis (plant)|Mauka]] ''(Mirabilis extensa)''
−
* [[Arthropodium|New Zealand rock lily]]* (''Arthropodium cirratum'')
+
* [[Arthropodium|New Zealand rock lily]] ''(Arthropodium cirratum)''
−
* [[Oca]]* (''Oxalis tuberosa'')
+
* [[Oca]] ''(Oxalis tuberosa)''
−
* [[Parsnip]] (''Pastinaca sativa'')
+
* [[Parsnip]] ''(Pastinaca sativa)''
−
* [[Conopodium majus|Pignut]]* (''Conopodium majus'')
+
* [[Conopodium majus|Pignut]] ''(Conopodium majus)''
−
* [[Plectranthus]]* (''Plectranthus'' spp.)
+
* [[Plectranthus]] (''Plectranthus'' spp.)
−
* [[Psoralea esculenta|Prairie turnip]]* (''Psoralea esculenta'')
+
* [[Psoralea esculenta|Prairie turnip]] ''(Psoralea esculenta)''
−
* [[Radish]] (''Raphanus sativus'')
+
* [[Radish]] ''(Raphanus sativus)''
 
* [[Rutabaga]] (''Brassica napus'' Napobrassica group)
 
* [[Rutabaga]] (''Brassica napus'' Napobrassica group)
−
* [[Purple Salsify|Salsify]]* (''Tragopogon porrifolius'')
+
* [[Purple Salsify|Salsify]] ''(Tragopogon porrifolius)''
−
* [[Black salsify|Scorzonera]]* (''Scorzonera hispanica'')
+
* [[Black salsify|Scorzonera]] ''(Scorzonera hispanica)''
−
* [[Skirret]]* (''Sium sisarum'')
+
* [[Skirret]] ''(Sium sisarum)''
−
* [[Taro]]* (''Colocasia esculenta'')
+
* [[Taro]] ''(Colocasia esculenta)''
−
* [[Ti (plant)|Ti]]* (''Cordyline fruticosa'')
+
* [[Ti (plant)|Ti]] ''(Cordyline fruticosa)''
−
* [[Cyperus esculentus|Tigernut]]* (''Cyperus esculentus'')
+
* [[Cyperus esculentus|Tigernut]] ''(Cyperus esculentus)''
 
* [[Turnip]] (''Brassica rapa'' Rapifera group)
 
* [[Turnip]] (''Brassica rapa'' Rapifera group)
−
* [[Ulluco]]* (''Ullucus tuberosus'')
+
* [[Ulluco]] ''(Ullucus tuberosus)''
−
* [[Wasabi]]* (''Wasabia japonica'')
+
* [[Wasabi]] ''(Wasabia japonica)''
−
* [[Eleocharis dulcis|Water chestnut]]* (''Eleocharis dulcis'')
+
* [[Eleocharis dulcis|Water chestnut]] ''(Eleocharis dulcis)''
−
* [[Yacón]]* (''Smallanthus sonchifolius'')
+
* [[Yacón]] ''(Smallanthus sonchifolius)''
 
* [[yam (vegetable)|Yam]] (''Dioscorea'' spp.)
 
* [[yam (vegetable)|Yam]] (''Dioscorea'' spp.)
  
 
===Seaweed===
 
===Seaweed===
 
[[Image:Caulerpa prolifera.JPG|thumb|The Caulerpa is a genus of edible [[seaweed]].]]
 
[[Image:Caulerpa prolifera.JPG|thumb|The Caulerpa is a genus of edible [[seaweed]].]]
−
* [[Aonori]]* (''Monostroma'' spp., ''Enteromorpha'' spp.)
+
* [[Aonori]] (''Monostroma'' spp., ''Enteromorpha'' spp.)
−
* [[Carola (sea vegetable)|Carola]]* (''Callophyllis variegata'')
+
* [[Carola (sea vegetable)|Carola]] ''(Callophyllis variegata)''
−
* [[Dabberlocks]]* (''Alaria esculenta'')
+
* [[Dabberlocks]] ''(Alaria esculenta)''
−
* [[Dulse]]* (''Palmaria palmata'')
+
* [[Dulse]] ''(Palmaria palmata)''
−
* [[Hijiki]]* (''Hizikia fusiformis'')
+
* [[Hijiki]] ''(Hizikia fusiformis)''
−
* [[Kombu]]* (''Laminaria japonica'')
+
* [[Kombu]] ''(Laminaria japonica)''
−
* [[Mozuku]]* (''Cladosiphon okamuranus'')
+
* [[Mozuku]] ''(Cladosiphon okamuranus)''
−
* [[Nori]]* (''Porphyra'' spp.)
+
* [[Nori]] (''Porphyra'' spp.)
−
* [[Ogonori]]* (''Gracilaria'' spp.)
+
* [[Ogonori]] (''Gracilaria'' spp.)
−
* [[Caulerpa|Sea grape]]* (''Caulerpa'' spp.)
+
* [[Caulerpa|Sea grape]] (''Caulerpa'' spp.)
−
* [[Sea lettuce]] (''Ulva lactuca'')
+
* [[Sea lettuce]] ''(Ulva lactuca)''
−
* [[Wakame]]* (''Undaria pinnatifida'')
+
* [[Wakame]] ''(Undaria pinnatifida)''
−
 
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
 
* Ayto, J. 1993. ''Dictionary of Word Origins''. New York: Arcade Publishing. ISBN 1559702141.  
 
* Ayto, J. 1993. ''Dictionary of Word Origins''. New York: Arcade Publishing. ISBN 1559702141.  
−
* Seddon, J. M. U. A. Ajani, R. D. Sperduto, et al. 1994. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. Eye Disease Case-Control Study Group. ''JAMA'' 272:1413-1420.
+
* Seddon, J. M. U. A. Ajani, R. D. Sperduto, et al. 1994. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. Eye Disease Case-Control Study Group. ''JAMA'' 272:1413-1420.
 
* Whitaker, J. 2001. ''Reversing Diabetes''. Warner Books. ISBN 0446676586.
 
* Whitaker, J. 2001. ''Reversing Diabetes''. Warner Books. ISBN 0446676586.
−
* Woodruff, S. 1995. ''Secrets of Fat-Free Cooking''. Avery. ISBN 0895296683.
+
* Woodruff, S. 1995. ''Secrets of Fat-Free Cooking''. Avery. ISBN 0895296683.
−
*World Health Organization (WHO). 2005. [http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/diet/en/index.html Healthy diet statement]. ''World Health Organization''. Retrieved January 15, 2007.
+
*World Health Organization (WHO). 2005. [http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/diet/en/index.html Healthy diet statement] ''World Health Organization''. Retrieved December 18, 2007.
−
 
 
−
==External links==
 
−
* [http://www.vric.ucdavis.edu UC Vegetable & Research Information Center]
 
−
* [http://web4.msue.msu.edu/veginfo Michigan Vegetable Information Network]
 
  
 
[[Category:Life sciences]]
 
[[Category:Life sciences]]
−
{{credit2|Vegetable|109041093|List_of_vegetables|108635958}}
+
[[Category:Plants]]
 +
[[Category:Food]]
 +
{{credit2|Vegetable|109041093|List_of_vegetables|108635958|Nutrition|108937943}}

Latest revision as of 16:34, 14 November 2022


A plate of vegetables

Vegetable in a general and common sense refers to any edible part (root, leaves, stem, flowers, seeds, bulbs, fruit) of herbaceous plants consumed as food by humans, as well as to the plant itself that is cultivated for an edible part. However, vegetable is a culinary term more so than one of scientific classification, and its use is somewhat arbitrary and subjective. Though the exceptions are many, in general, vegetables are thought of as being savory and not sweet.

Mushrooms, though belonging to the biological kingdom fungi, are also commonly considered vegetables. Nuts, grains, herbs, and spices are normally not considered vegetables.

Vegetables are an essential part of good nutrition. Longevity studies have shown that correlates of long life include consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and a World Health Organization (2005) statement on diet recommends increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Good health requires individuals to exhibit discipline in their eating habits.

Since “vegetable” is not a botanical term, there is no contradiction in referring to a plant part as a fruit while also being considered a vegetable. Given this general rule of thumb, vegetables can include leaves (lettuce), stems (asparagus), roots (carrots), flowers (broccoli), bulbs (garlic), seeds (peas and beans), and of course the botanical fruits like cucumbers, squash, pumpkins, and capsicums.

The merit of the ongoing question, "is it a fruit, or is it a vegetable?," has even found its way before the bench of the United States Supreme Court which ruled unanimously in Nix v. Hedden, 1883, that a tomato is a vegetable for the purposes of 1883 Tariff Act even though botanically, a tomato is a fruit.

In a broad, historical, and sometimes literary sense, vegetable also has been used to refer to any plant or plant part, in the sense of "vegetable matter" or "vegetable kingdom."

Commercial production of vegetables is a branch of horticulture called olericulture. Vegetarianism is the practice of not consuming meat, with or without the use of other animal derivatives, such as dairy products or eggs.

Etymology

Tomatoes growing in a vegetable garden.

Vegetable comes from Latin vegetabilis (animated) and from vegetare (enliven), which is derived from vegetus (active), in reference to the process of a plant growing. This in turn derives from the Proto-Indo-European base *weg- or *wog-, which is also the source of the English wake, meaning "not sleep."

The word vegetable was first recorded in print in English in the fourteenth century. The meaning of "plant grown for food" was not established until the eighteenth century (Ayto 1993).

Vegetables in the diet

Vegetables are eaten in a variety of ways as part of main meals and as snack food.

The nutrient content of different types varies considerably. With the exception of pulses (annual leguminous crops yielding from one to twelve grains or seeds within a pod, such as protein beans, chickpeas, lima beans, and garden peas), vegetables provide little protein and fat (Woodruff 1995, Whitaker 2001).

Vegetables contain water soluble vitamins like vitamin B and vitamin C, fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamin A and vitamin D, and also contain carbohydrates and minerals.

Colorful vegetables (as well as colorful fruits) are an important source of trace chemicals collectively called phytochemicals. One of the principal classes of phytochemicals are polyphenol antioxidants, chemicals which are known to provide certain health benefits to the cardiovascular system and immune system. One rigorously tested phytochemical is zeaxanthin, a yellow-pigmented carotenoid present in many yellow and orange fruits and vegetables. Repeated studies have shown a strong correlation between ingestion of zeaxanthin and the prevention and treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (Seddon et al. 1994).

Consumption of vegetables is often advanced as especially important for good nutrition. As such, personal responsibility and discipline are required in one's eating habits. One example of such discipline is seen in the Book of Daniel in the Bible. Daniel and his friends were captured by the king of Babylon during an invasion of Israel. Selected as court servants, they were to share in the king's fine foods and wine. But they objected, preferring vegetables (pulses) and water in accordance with their Jewish dietary restrictions. The king's chief steward reluctantly agreed to a trial. Daniel and his friends received their diet for 10 days and were then compared to the king’s men. Appearing healthier, they were allowed to continue with their diet.

Color in vegetables

Colorful vegetables at market

The green color of leafy vegetables is due to the presence of the green pigment chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is affected by pH and changes to olive green in acid conditions, and bright green in alkaline conditions. Some of the acids are released in steam during cooking, particularly if cooked without a cover.

The yellow/orange colors of fruits and vegetables are due to the presence of carotenoids, which are also affected by normal cooking processes or changes in pH.

The red/blue coloring of some fruits and vegetables (e.g. blackberries and red cabbage) are due to anthocyanins, which are sensitive to changes in pH. When pH is neutral, the pigments are purple; when acidic, red; and when alkaline, blue. These pigments are very water soluble.

Storage of vegetables

Potatoes and other root vegetables should be stored in a dark, cool, and dry place to prevent mold, greening, and sprouting.

During storage leafy vegetables lose moisture and vitamin C degrades rapidly. They should be stored for as short a time as possible in a cool place in a container, such as a plastic bag.

Many root vegetables can be stored through winter in a root cellar. Care should be taken in understanding the properties and vulnerabilities of the particular roots to be stored. Many can last through to early spring and be nearly as nutritious as when fresh.

List of vegetables

This is a list of vegetables in the culinary sense, which means it includes some botanical fruits like pumpkins and does not include herbs, spices, cereals, and most culinary fruits and culinary nuts. Some culinary vegetables (seaweeds like nori) are not even members of the plant kingdom.

A vegetable can be any of the major plant parts—root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit, or seed. Vegetables are usually eaten during the main part of a meal while culinary fruits are usually sweet and eaten as desserts, snacks, or juices. There are often exceptions, e.g. vegetables can be used in desserts such as sweet potato pie, sweet green tomato pie, and sweet eggplant pie. Vegetables are also used in vegetable juices.

Western Brassicas

Closeup of romanesco broccoli.
  • Broccoli (Brassica oleracea Italica group)
  • Brussels sprout (Brassica oleracea Gemmifera group)
  • Cabbage (Brassica oleracea Capitata group)
  • Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea Botrytis group)
  • Kale (Brassica oleracea Acephala group)
  • Rapini (Brassica rapa var. ruvo)

Asian Brassicas

  • Kai-lan (Brassica rapa var. alboglabra)
  • Bok choy (also spelt Bok choi)(Brassica rapa var. chinensis) (Brassica rapa var. pekinensis)
  • Komatsuna (Brassica rapa var. perviridis)
  • Mizuna greens (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica)
  • Oriental mustard (Brassica juncea)

Leafy and salad vegetables

Iceberg lettuce field in Northern Santa Barbara County.
Spinach in flower
  • Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus)
  • Arugula (Eruca sativa)
  • Bitterleaf (Vernonia calvoana)
  • Catsear (Hypochaeris radicata)
  • Celtuce (Lactuca sativa var. asparagina)
  • Ceylon spinach (Basella alba)
  • Chicory (Cichorium intybus)
  • Chinese Mallow (Malva verticillata)
  • Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium)
  • Corn salad (Valerianella locusta)
  • Cress (Lepidium sativum)
  • Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
  • Endive (Cichorium endivia)
  • Epazote (Chenopodium ambrosioides)
  • Fat hen (Chenopodium album)
  • Fiddlehead (Pteridium aquilinum, Athyrium esculentum)
  • Fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis)
  • Golden samphire (Inula crithmoides)
  • Good King Henry (Chenopodium bonus-henricus)
  • Iceplant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum)
  • Kuka (Adansonia spp.)
  • Lagos bologi (Talinum fruticosum)
  • Land cress (Barbarea verna)
  • Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
  • Lizard's tail (Houttuynia cordata)
  • Melokhia (Corchorus olitorius, Corchorus capsularis)
  • Mustard (Sinapis alba)
  • New Zealand Spinach (Tetragonia tetragonioides)
  • Orache (Atriplex hortensis)
  • Radicchio (Cichorium intybus)
  • Samphire (Crithmum maritimum)
  • Salad rape (Brassica napus)
  • Sea beet (Beta vulgaris subsp. maritima)
  • Seakale (Crambe maritima)
  • Sierra Leone bologi (Crassocephalum spp.)
  • Soko (Celosia argentea)
  • Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
  • Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
  • Summer purslane (Portulaca oleracea)
  • Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla var. flavescens)
  • Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
  • Water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica)
  • Winter purslane (Claytonia perfoliata)

Fruiting and flowering vegetables

Avocado fruit (cv. 'Fuerte'); left: whole, right: in section
Pumpkins
  • Armenian cucumber (Cucumis melo Flexuosus group)
  • Eggplant or Aubergine (Solanum melongena)
  • Avocado (Persea americana)
  • Bitter melon (Momordica charantia)
  • Caigua (Cyclanthera pedata)
  • Cayenne pepper (Capsicum frutescens)
  • Chayote (Sechium edule)
  • Chile pepper (Capsicum annuum Longum group)
  • Cucumber (Cucumis sativus)
  • Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)
  • Luffa (Luffa acutangula, Luffa aegyptiaca)
  • Malabar gourd (Cucurbita ficifolia)
  • Marrow (Cucurbita pepo)
  • Parwal (Trichosanthes dioica)
  • Perennial cucumber (Coccinia grandis)
  • Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima, Cucurbita pepo)
  • Snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina)
  • Sweetcorn (Zea mays)
  • Sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum Grossum group)
  • Tinda (Praecitrullus fistulosus)
  • Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)
  • Tomatillo (Physalis ixocarpa, Physalis philadelphica)
  • Winter melon (Benincasa hispida)
  • West Indian gherkin (Cucumis anguria)
  • Zucchini or Courgette (Cucurbita pepo)

Podded vegetables

Diversity in dry common beans
Varieties of soybeans are used for many purposes.
  • American groundnut (Apios americana)
  • Asparagus pea (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus)
  • Azuki bean (Vigna angularis)
  • Black-eyed pea (Vigna unguiculata subsp. unguiculata)
  • Chickpea (Cicer arietinum)
  • Drumstick (Moringa oleifera)
  • Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus)
  • Fava bean (Vicia faba)
  • French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)
  • Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba)
  • Horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum)
  • Indian pea (Lathyrus sativus)
  • Lentil (Lens culinaris)
  • Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus)
  • Moth bean (Vigna acontifolia)
  • Mung bean (Vigna radiata)
  • Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)
  • Pea (Pisum sativum)
  • Peanut (Arachis hypogaea)
  • Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan)
  • Rice bean (Vigna umbellatta)
  • Runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus)
  • Soybean (Glycine max)
  • Tarwi (Lupinus mutabilis)
  • Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius)
  • Urad bean (Vigna mungo)
  • Velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens)
  • Yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis)

Bulb and stem vegetables

Garlic bulbs and individual cloves, one peeled.
  • Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
  • Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus)
  • Celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum)
  • Celery (Apium graveolens)
  • Elephant Garlic (Allium ampeloprasum var. ampeloprasum)
  • Florence fennel (Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce)
  • Garlic (Allium sativum)
  • Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea Gongylodes group)
  • Kurrat (Allium ampeloprasum var. kurrat)
  • Leek (Allium porrum)
  • Nopal (Opuntia ficus-indica)
  • Onion (Allium cepa)
  • Prussian asparagus (Ornithogalum pyrenaicum)
  • Rhubarb (Rheum x cultorum)
  • Shallot (Allium cepa Aggregatum group)
  • Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum)
  • Wild leek (Allium tricoccum)

Root and tuberous vegetables

Carrots come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.
Potatoes are one of the most used staple foods.
  • Ahipa (Pachyrhizus ahipa)
  • Arracacha (Arracacia xanthorrhiza))
  • Bamboo shoot
  • Beetroot (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris)
  • Black cumin (Bunium persicum)
  • Broadleaf arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia)
  • Canna (Canna spp.)
  • Carrot (Daucus carota)
  • Cassava (Manihot esculenta)
  • Chinese artichoke (Stachys affinis)
  • Daikon (Raphanus sativus Longipinnatus group)
  • Earthnut pea (Lathyrus tuberosus)
  • Ensete (Ensete ventricosum)
  • Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
  • Gobo (Arctium lappa)
  • Hamburg parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. tuberosum)
  • Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus)
  • Jícama (Pachyrhizus erosus)
  • Lotus root (Nelumbo nucifera)
  • Maca (Lepidium meyenii)
  • Malanga (Xanthosoma sp.)
  • Mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum)
  • Mauka (Mirabilis extensa)
  • New Zealand rock lily (Arthropodium cirratum)
  • Oca (Oxalis tuberosa)
  • Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa)
  • Pignut (Conopodium majus)
  • Plectranthus (Plectranthus spp.)
  • Prairie turnip (Psoralea esculenta)
  • Radish (Raphanus sativus)
  • Rutabaga (Brassica napus Napobrassica group)
  • Salsify (Tragopogon porrifolius)
  • Scorzonera (Scorzonera hispanica)
  • Skirret (Sium sisarum)
  • Taro (Colocasia esculenta)
  • Ti (Cordyline fruticosa)
  • Tigernut (Cyperus esculentus)
  • Turnip (Brassica rapa Rapifera group)
  • Ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus)
  • Wasabi (Wasabia japonica)
  • Water chestnut (Eleocharis dulcis)
  • Yacón (Smallanthus sonchifolius)
  • Yam (Dioscorea spp.)

Seaweed

The Caulerpa is a genus of edible seaweed.
  • Aonori (Monostroma spp., Enteromorpha spp.)
  • Carola (Callophyllis variegata)
  • Dabberlocks (Alaria esculenta)
  • Dulse (Palmaria palmata)
  • Hijiki (Hizikia fusiformis)
  • Kombu (Laminaria japonica)
  • Mozuku (Cladosiphon okamuranus)
  • Nori (Porphyra spp.)
  • Ogonori (Gracilaria spp.)
  • Sea grape (Caulerpa spp.)
  • Sea lettuce (Ulva lactuca)
  • Wakame (Undaria pinnatifida)

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Ayto, J. 1993. Dictionary of Word Origins. New York: Arcade Publishing. ISBN 1559702141.
  • Seddon, J. M. U. A. Ajani, R. D. Sperduto, et al. 1994. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. Eye Disease Case-Control Study Group. JAMA 272:1413-1420.
  • Whitaker, J. 2001. Reversing Diabetes. Warner Books. ISBN 0446676586.
  • Woodruff, S. 1995. Secrets of Fat-Free Cooking. Avery. ISBN 0895296683.
  • World Health Organization (WHO). 2005. Healthy diet statement World Health Organization. Retrieved December 18, 2007.

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