Exploring Edible Plants Native to the Southeast U.S.

Almost everything grown for food and agriculture today is the product of thousands of years of breeding. Farmers of the past domesticated crop plants by selecting desirable traits to pass on to subsequent generations, and with time, achieved richer, tastier food. Meanwhile, Indigenous Peoples bred wild grasses, legumes, bushes, and trees, and gave way to a diverse array of edible plants, contributing to the region’s rich culinary heritage. In this blog, we will explore five notable plants that have roots in the Southeast and delve into their origin, flavors, and cultural significance.

1. Muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia)

Origin: Muscadines are noted as the first native grape species to be cultivated in North America. They thrive in warm, humid climates, and can be seen in the wild spanning from Florida north to Delaware, and west to Texas. 

Taste: Muscadines are known for their uniquely bold, sweet flavor with a hint of tartness. When ripe, the muscadine’s thick skin encases a juicy, fragrant pulp that varies from green to dark purple or black.

Significance: Muscadines are a staple in southern cuisine, and are not only enjoyed raw, but in wines, jellies, and desserts. They are said to be easier to grow than other grape species due to their thick skin that protects them from pests, bacteria, and fungi.

Muscadines even have medicinal value; the Seminole Nation used them to aid fever, vomiting, snake bites, and chronic illness in children. Their resilience and adaptability make them a staple in Southern gardens and cuisine, celebrated for their antioxidant properties as well.

2. Pecan (Carya illinoinensis)

Origin: Pecans are known as the only major tree nut that grows naturally in North America. With a native of range spanning from Indiana and Illinois south to Louisiana and Texas, Pecan trees enjoy areas with warm, humid climates that have long, hot summers and cool winters.

Taste: Pecans feature a buttery, nutty flavor with a slightly sweet finish. Their rich, creamy texture makes them a favorite in both savory and sweet dishes.

Significance: As the state nut of Texas and a key ingredient in Southern cooking, pecans are essential for desserts like pies, cakes, and candies. Historically, they have played an important role in the diet of Native American tribes with them documented being roasted, ground into flour, boiled, and used to make nut milk.

Pecans continue to be a significant agricultural product in the region as the U.S. accounts for around 80% of global pecan production. They are valued for their nutritional benefits, being rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, and being a tasty ingredient in family-favorite dishes.

3. Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)

Origin: Pawpaws are the largest fruit native to the U.S. and its genus is the only one of its family not to be confined to growing in tropical areas naturally. Pawpaws are found in the wild of Eastern North America, ranging from southern Canada to northern Florida, and west to parts of Texas, Kansas, and Nebraska. They usually thrive as understory trees in forests with moist, fertile floodplain soils near rivers and creeks.

Taste: Pawpaws have a custard-like texture and a flavor that is often described as a blend of banana, mango, and melon. They are sweet, creamy, and fragrant when ripe.

Significance: As the largest edible fruit native to North America, pawpaws have a special place in the diets of many Indigenous Peoples. They are often referred to as the “princess of fruits” and the Shawnee Tribe even recognizes September as “pawpaw month.” Native Americans ate the fruit raw, dried them into cakes, and used the bark to make rope, nets, and mats.

4. Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana)

Origin: American persimmons grow from Florida to Connecticut, west to Iowa and south Texas. Persimmon trees can grow in a variety of settings ranging from swampy forests to sandy soils, as they are well-adapted to extreme temperatures and tolerant to adverse conditions. 

Taste: Ripe persimmons have a sweet, honey-like taste with notes of cinnamon and vanilla, while unripe persimmons are tart and astringent. 

Significance: Persimmons, often referred to as “sugar fruit” in some cultures, have been a staple among many Native American communities and continue to be enjoyed in various culinary applications, from desserts to sauces. They are also valued for their high vitamin content and suitability for various climates in the Southeast.

5. Blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum)

Origin: While commercial blueberries are grown throughout the U.S. many varieties derive from rabbiteye blueberries, which grow wild from Florida north to North Carolina, and west to Texas. Much like other species, they thrive in well-drained acidic soils where the seasons have long, humid summers, and cool winters.

Taste: Blueberries are sweet and slightly tart with a juicy texture, making them a versatile addition to both sweet and savory dishes. They are cherished for their burst of flavor and vibrant color.

Significance: Blueberries are highly prized for their nutritional benefits and antioxidant properties. They are often used in jams, desserts, and as fresh snacks.

Native peoples ate them dried and in stews, and they would also use other parts of the plant as medicinal aid for sore throat relief and a muscle relaxant. The popularity of wild blueberry picking supports local economies and connects communities to the natural landscape.

Conclusion

These edible plants not only provide delightful flavors but also hold cultural, historical, and environmental significance in the Southeast U.S. As interest in foraging and sustainable eating grows, reconnecting with these native edible plants can lead to a deeper appreciation for the region’s agricultural heritage and culinary potential. Whether enjoyed fresh, dried, or cooked, these plants are a testament to the richness of the Southeast’s biodiversity and food culture.

This blog was written by Fort Valley State University (FVSU) and NWF intern, Bryan Hallman, as part of his internship with the NWF Southeast Forestry program. Our program works to foster and facilitate students’ connections to the natural world and forests that sustain humans and wildlife alike.