Gallant Soldier (Galinsoga parviflora)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Galinsoga parviflora is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from May to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in soups etc. — The leaves, stem and flowering shoots - raw or cooked and eaten as a potherb, or added to soups and stews.; They can be dried and ground into a powder then used as a flavouring in soups etc.; A bland but very acceptable food, it makes a fine salad either on its own or mixed with other leaves.; The fresh juice can be mixed and drunk with tomato or vegetable juices.

Habitat & North American Range

Arable land, waste places, pavements in towns etc, often in partial shade. (Zone 5)