文档介绍：EDIBLE AND
MEDICINAL PLANTS
Abal
osum
Description: The abal is one of the few shrubby plants that exists in the shady
deserts. This plant grows to about meters, and its branches look like wisps from a
broom. The stiff, green branches produce an abundance of flowers in the early spring
months (March, April).
Habitat and Distribution: This plant is found in desert scrub and waste in any climatic
zone. It inhabits much of the North African desert. It may also be found on the desert
sands of the Middle East and as far eastward as the Rajputana desert of western India.
Edible Parts: This plant's general appearance would not indicate its usefulness to the
survivor, but while this plant is flowering in the spring, its fresh flowers can be eaten.
This plant mon in the areas where it is found. An analysis of the food value of
this plant has shown it to be high in sugar and ponents.
Acacia
Acacia farnesiana
Description: Acacia is a spreading, usually short tree with spines and alternate
compound leaves. Its individual leaflets are small. Its flowers are ball-shaped, bright
yellow, and very fragrant. Its bark is a whitish-gray color. Its fruits are dark brown
and podlike.
Habitat and Distribution: Acacia grows in open, sunny areas. It is found throughout
all tropical regions.
Note: There are about 500 species of acacia. These plants are especially prevalent in
Africa, southern Asia, and Australia, but many species are found in the warmer and
drier parts of America.
Edible Parts: Its young leaves, flowers, and pods are edible raw or cooked.
Agave
Agave species
Description: These plants have large clusters of thick, fleshy leaves borne close to
the ground and surrounding a central stalk. The plants flower only once, then die.
They produce a massive flower stalk.
Habitat and Distribution: Agaves prefer dry, open areas. They are found throughout
Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of the western deserts of the United States
and Mexico.