I wish I could say we have enjoyed eating these unusual greens all summer, but we really didn't like the taste, or the texture, of the raw leaves. Rouse the Spouse thought it tasted "weedy". Indeed, some reviewers declare that it tastes like "grass" or "dirt". In addition, we found it to have a very unpleasant slimy feel in the mouth. As a result, I was never tempted to take it to the next level, actually cooking it. I read that some folks find that cooking improves the taste, especially if leaves are left whole and not cut (less slime). I may have to try that next time.
In the meantime, it creates a stunning focal point in the garden! But I do believe this thing could get out of hand. So many berries! Will the birds like it? Will it become noxiously invasive?? I think it's time to get it out of the garden before the seeds get widely dispersed.
 |
| heart shaped leaves, prolific tiny pink flowers & dark purple berries |
 |
| one plant covered my cedar pole tepee basil growing at the base of the mature m.spinach plant |
More info from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
