August Plant Release: Cape Gooseberry, Red Sorrel, and Purslane

Ava Mutchler

July 30, 2021

The possibilities to enhance meal planning with homegrown ingredients are endless with Gardyn. Each month we’re delighted to bring new varieties to your Gardyning portfolio and even more fresh food to your plate!

Three new plants have arrived for your Gardyn including unique Cape Gooseberry, nutritional and refreshing Red Sorrel, and tender Purslane.

Want to deep dive into our new varieties? Visit the Gardyn Plant Book for growing and nutritional info, plus harvest to plate recipes.

Cape Gooseberry

Gardyners should have a delightful time growing this rare and unusual fruiting plant. Native to the Andean region, the Cape Gooseberry is characterized by heart-shaped leaves and lovely bell-shaped flowers. The fruit it produces is covered by a husk, starting green then turn into a glossy yellowish-orange when ripe.

The flavor of the Cape Gooseberry (P. peruviana) is a unique tomato/pineapple-like blend. Its uses are similar to the common tomato, or fruits with a refreshing taste.

Cape Gooseberries are especially rich in immune-supporting vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, and provitamin A. They are also a great source of potassium and contain minerals calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and micronutrients zinc and iron.

Red Sorrel

Did you know a one cup serving of Red Sorrel provides over 100% of daily recommended vitamin A and C? Red Sorrel is a nutritional powerhouse that is rare to find outside of farmer’s markets due to its short shelf life after harvest. Its small, younger leaves are more tender than mature foliage and can be mixed into fresh salads, added to wraps, or provide a delicate, beautiful edible garnish. Mature, bigger leaves have a distinct tangy lemon flavor that mellows slightly with cooking.

Purslane

Purslane is a leafy vegetable native to Southeast Asia and Southeast Europe, featuring tender, succulent-like leaves. It is highly appreciated for its plant-based omega-3 fatty acid content, namely alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy cell membrane function and are especially important for cardiovascular and neurologic health.

Every part of the plant, from seeds to stems to flowers, is edible. It can be eaten raw or cooked like spinach, stir-fried, boiled, or made into a pesto. It is often used to thicken and flavor soups and stews.

How do you introduce new flavors to your family? We’d love to know!

It’s exciting to grow with your own personal farmer’s market, isn’t it? Providing fresh homegrown food not only gives you nutritious options at your fingertips, growing independently gives you peace of mind knowing where your food is coming from.

Gardyn members enjoy 10 new plants a month, free shipping, and access to Kelby, your own personal Gardyn Assistant.

Not a member? You should join us! Discover how you can grow with confidence with Gardyn.

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