One Community
Food Forest Vine Plantings
This page is our team’s research into food forest vine plantings. It includes food forest vine plant pictures, descriptions, cultural considerations, planting guidelines, and links to additional information. For food forest creation information visit the Food Forest Open Source Hub. The Food Forest Open Source Hub is also where you can find the results of our research into complete purchasing details for all plants listed on this page. These food forest vine plantings could work elsewhere but were chosen primarily for USDA zone 7a-7b.
This page is divided into the following sections:
- Specific Plants for Each Food Forest Section
- Other Related Pages
- Ways to Contribute to Evolving This
- Food Forest Component Elements Overview and Planting Guidelines
- Food Forest Vine Planting Specifics
- Plant Providers Resource List (where to buy)
- Summary
- FAQ
CLICK IMAGES FOR PAGES WITH COMPLETE PLANT LISTS FOR THE OTHER SECTIONS
CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE PLANT PURCHASING RESEARCH
OTHER RELATED PAGES (click individual icons for complete pages)
WAYS TO CONTRIBUTE TO EVOLVING THIS SUSTAINABILITY COMPONENT WITH US
SUGGESTIONS | CONSULTING | MEMBERSHIP | OTHER OPTIONS
FOOD FOREST ELEMENTS OVERVIEW
Our complete food forest includes a symbiotic cultivation of the following 8 key areas:
Canopy, Understory, Vines, Shrubs, Herbs, Groundcover, Root Crops, and Edge Plantings.
CLICK IMAGE TO VISIT THE FOOD FOREST OPEN SOURCE HUB WITH MORE INFO
Listed below are descriptions of each of the food forest vine plants we will be growing. Where genera are listed, it indicates that more than one species of that genus would be useful. Individual species listings indicate that the species in question has attributes of interest that are unique to the species. Those listing with a (†) indicate that these entries may be marginally adaptable onsite, and should therefore be considered experimental.
A NOTE ON PLACEMENT SPECIFICS
Placing individual species in their appropriate locations will need wait until we are on the property. We are saving this decision process until we are onsite because of the complex matrix of plant needs that must take in the specifics of the different areas of the property for maximum benefit. This includes sun and shade requirements, cold hardiness, soil and drainage preferences, ultimate size of the plant, allelopathic considerations, winter shadows, proximity to buildings or other structures, etc. These things combine to make placement a nearly case-by-case decision. In an effort to maximize the stability, beauty, productivity and self replication of the ecosystem we hope to create, we will employ (and open source share) as many of these and other design criteria as possible in the development and placement of all plantings at One Community.
CLICK THIS IMAGE TO LEARN ALL ABOUT FOOD FORESTS ON THE MAIN HUB PAGE
VINES
Vines are species that require the physical support of other structures, usually trees or shrubs, upon which to climb towards the light. They are often, but not always, shade preferring species that live in the understory. Some more sun tolerant species are also found at forest margins and can be considered edge species. Here is the current list of planned vine species for the One Community food forest:
Actinidia (Kiwi)
Actinidia is a genus of 60 species of shrubs and woody vines in the Actinidiaceae, native to Asia. They are mostly dioecious, rarely monoecious deciduous plants that produce edible berries ranging from the size of a cherry to that of a plum. Though cultivated in China for centuries, but since the 1960’s have the attention of western horticulturists.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow kiwi in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- The vines are moisture loving and will drop leaves if drought stressed
- The vining species require a trellis or tree to support their rampant growth
- They should be planted in blocks, with eight females planted around a single male
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Akebia spp. (Chocolate vine)
Akebia is a genus of 5 species of vines in the Lardazabalaceae, native to eastern Asia. They are grown for their vines, used in basketry, for their medicinal properties, and for their edible fruits. The flowers are also ornamental. The rampant growth makes the plant useful as a quick screen over a trellis, and for biomass production for compost. The plant can naturalize from bird-dispersed seed.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Akebia in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Fruits tend to split on the vine when ripe
- The vines appear to have no special needs
- If grown for fruit, two clones are necessary for cross-pollination
- They should be planted with a support structure for the weight of the fast-growing vines
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Vines benefit from mulch and irrigation during dry periods, and respond well to fertilizer.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Anredera spp. (New Zealand spinach)
Anredera is a genus of 10 or 11 species in the Basellaceae, native to the Neotropics in seasonally dry scrubland. They are evergreen vines that grow from underground tubers; they also produce aerial tubers along the stems, which drop off to form new plants. The leaves and tubers are edible, and Anredera cordifolia, called “New Zealand spinach” is cultivated as a heat- tolerant replacement for spinach.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Anredera in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- If killed by frost, they will return from the tubers
- They plants are of easy care in warm moist climates, often becoming weedy
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Tubers or small plants can be set out at the beginning of the growing season. They should be mulched and watered in well. Regular irrigation will speed growth during the summer months.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Antigonon leptopus (Corallita, Mexican creeper)
Antigonon leptopus is a species of vining plant in the Polygonaceae native to Baja California and other parts of Mexico. It is a vine to 30-40 feet, arising from large tubers. These are edible when roasted and said to taste like chestnuts. The seeds were an important food for the indigenous people of Baja, who toasted them in baskets with hot coals and ate them like popcorn, or ground them into meal.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Antigonon in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- The plant withstands very dry conditions
- Vines are vigorous and can smother other plants
- If the above-ground vines are killed, the plant can re-sprout from the tubers
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants can be planted out during the warm season and watered in well. They benefit from supplemental water during the summer, but it is not necessary.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Wikipedia – Antigonon_leptopus
Apios americana (Potato bean)
Apios americana is a species of perennial vine in the Fabaceae, native to eastern North America. The plant bears edible beans and edible tubers, high in starch and with more protein than potatoes. They were an important food resource for many Native American tribes. There is currently work underway by Prof. Blackmon at LSU to develop the species for commercial cultivation.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Apios americana in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- High humus and regular moisture are indicated
- The plants grow in moist shady areas at forest margins and along streams
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Apios priceana (Price’s potato bean) endangered sp.
Apios priceana is a species of perennial vine in the Fabaceae, native to eastern North America. The plant bears edible beans and edible tubers, high in starch and with more protein than potatoes. The plant is only known from 25 populations in Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky, and Tennessee. It is federally listed as threatened. The beans and tubers were eaten like Apios americana.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Apios priceana in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- High humus and regular moisture are indicated
- The plants grow in moist shady areas at forest margins and along streams
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Billardiera (Appleberry)
Billardiera is a genus of 25 species of twining vines or sprawling shrubs in the Pittosporaceae, endemic to Australia. Found in forest woodland or in meadows their pendant flowers have purple, red or yellow edible fruits to 1 inch long. Eaten by aboriginal Australians for centuries;but now gaining attention as a cultivated “bushfood” crop.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow appleberry in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- They are drought tolerant
- The plants grow in partial shade to full sun
- They respond well to mulch, fertilizer and supplemental irrigation in the dry season
- They appear to be tolerant of allelopathic treesand should be tried beneath e.g. Juglans
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Boquila trifoliata (Pilpil, Voqui)
Boquila is a monotypic genus in the Lardizabalaceae, native to Chile. It is a vine growing to 8 feet in temperate woodlands, with evergreen, fluted, trifoliate leaves. The vines produce clusters of small, cup-shaped flowers followed by attractive, pure white berries, which are picked like cherries by Chileans. Pilpil is a good addition to the all-too-limited number of smaller evergreen vines available.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Boquila in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- The vine will tolerate some summer drought
- Boquila trifoliata grows in full sun to partial shade
- Probably best in the understory of larger trees, which will provide some winter protection
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Transplanted vines should be mulched thoroughly and watered in well. Regular irrigation should be continued until signs of new growth appear. Water should be withdrawn as fall approaches to harden the plants for winter.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Eustrephus (Wombat berry)
Eustrephus is a monotypic genus variously placed in the Luzuriagaeceae, Philesiaceae or Asparagaceae, native to Australia. It is a twining herbaceous perennial vine found in open forests or at the edge of woodlands. The orange berries and small tubers are edible, and have been used by aboriginal groups. The species is receiving attention currently as part of Australia’s “bushfoods” movement.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Eustrephus in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Plants need good drainage
- They are somewhat drought tolerant
- The plant is native to regions with a dry season
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Geitnoplesium cyamosum (Scrambling lily)
Geitnoplesium is a monotypic genus that has been variously placed in the Hemerocallidaceae, Smilacaceae or Philesiaceae, native to Australia. It is a scrambling vine in forests or along watercourses to 12 feet in height, with narrow lanceolate leaves and pendant white flowers. The new shoots are eaten like asparagus, and the tubers may be edible, similar to the related Eustrephus latifolius.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Geitnoplesium in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Geitnoplesium need steady moisture
- They will grow in full sun to partial shade
- The plants grow in a wide range of soil types and pH
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be mulched after planting and watered until signs of new growth appear. Some winter protection may be necessary for the first few winters.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Holboellia sp. (Sausage vine)
Holboellia is a genus of 20 species of vining perennials in the Lardizabalaceae, native to southeastern Asia. They are deciduous or evergreen monoecious vines to 25 feet in height. The fruits are sausage-shaped, ripening to purple, with a creamy pulp containing many small seeds. The fruit are much appreciated in the Himalayas, although some garden writers consider the fruit to be bland.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Holboellia in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Holboellia are not particular to soils
- The vines like moisture, so mulch should be beneficial
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Vine will grow in partial shade to full sun. Mulch and water in well.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Ipomoea (Morning Glory, Sweet Potato)
Ipomea is a genus of approximately 500 species in the Convolvulaceae, native to warm temperate to tropical regions worldwide. They are twining annual or perennial vines with distinctive trumpet shaped flowers. Many important economic species belong to this genus including the sweet potato, water spinach, etc. Many of the species also have medicinal uses.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Ipomea in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- The vines will tolerate some drought and soils of low fertility
- The vines like warm sunny sheltered conditions and a free draining soil
- They generally need a long growing season, so starting the plants indoors may be necessary
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Set plants out as soon as the last frost date is past. Irrigate deeply and infrequently. Mulch is beneficial.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Lablab purpureus (Hyacinth Bean)
Lablab purpureus is a monotypic genus in the Fabaceae, native to Africa. It is an ornamental twining vine with purple-tinged, trifoliate leaves, and is an annual or short lived perennial. Hyacinth Bean is cultivated worldwide for a green manure crop, soil improvement, and its edible leaves, flowers and seeds. The seeds are popular in curries in India, and with bananas in Africa.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Lablab in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- A trellis or some support may be beneficial
- The vines may be grown in the same manner as the common bean
- The plants fix nitrogen and can be grown as intercrop with other vegetables
- The seeds must be thoroughly cooked to eliminate traces of cyanogenic glycosides
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants can be direct seeded, or set out as transplants in any average garden soil. They should be mulched and irrigated to aid establishment.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Lardizabala sp. (Zabala fruit)
Lardizabala is a monotypic genus of vining perennial in the Lardizabalaceae, native to Chile. It is a vine to 12 feet in height. The plant is not self-fertile, so more than one clone must be grown for fruit. The sweet pulpy fruit is eaten raw or cooked and considered a delicacy in Chile. Most fruit in the village markets come from wild plants, although there is interest in developing commercial production.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Lardizabala in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Plants grow in partial shade to full sun
- They are adaptable to a wide range of soils and pH
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Vines should be planted in spring, mulched, and watered in well. The vine are not drought tolerant.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Marsdenia edulis (Talayote)
Marsdenia edulis is a large, thick stemmed vine formerly in the Asclepiadaceae, now the Apocynaceae native to arid regions of western Mexico. The vine produces large green pods resembling mangos. The green fruits and vines yield a milky latex when injured. The tender unripe fruits are eaten roasted or raw and are said to be tasty. The bark is stripped from the vines, and the inner stems are chewed.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Marsdenia in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Should be drought tolerant
- Winter hardiness is not known
- The plants are native to a region with a pronounced dry season
- The plant must be considered experimental at the One Community site
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plant should be thoroughly mulched, and watered in well. Infrequent deep irrigation should continue through the summer until new growth begins.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Desert Museum Digital Library – Marsdenia edulis
Mondia whytei* (Mudondo, White’s ginger)
Mondia whitei is a vining species in the Apocynaceae, native to southern Africa. This plant is endangered due to the overharvesting of the plant for medicinal uses. It is a robust climber arising from a tuberous rootstock; older stems become woody, and all parts yield a milky latex when injured. The rootstock has a licorice-vanilla flavor and is used as a food flavoring, and for many medicinal uses.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Mondia in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Mondia are shade loving
- The plants are adaptable to climates with a dry season
- The plant will be considered experimental at the One community site
- Since the plant is from a warmer climate than the One Community site it may not adapt
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Polygala (Milkwort, “Yuan zhi”- TCM)
Polygala is a genus of 500-600 species of annual and perennial plants, shrubs, vines and trees in the Polygalaceae. They are native to tropical to temperate zones worldwide. Many species are used in herbal medicine, e.g. Polygala senega or Seneca snakeroot is harvested in the eastern U.S and shipped to Europe for use in cough syrups, etc. Many medicinal compounds are known from the genus.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Polygala in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- The plants will grow in full sun to partial shade
- For medicinal use, the plants should be at least four years old
- Seeds of many Polygala species require stratification or other pretreatment
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Polygonum sp. (Knotweed, Bistort )
Polygonum is a genus of approximately 300 species in the Polygonaceae, native to the temperate Northern hemisphere. They are highly variable, ranging from herbaceous annual 3 inches tall, to erect herbaceous perennial to 12 feet in height, to perennial woody vines climbing to 80 feet into trees. There are several aquatic species also. Many species are used as food plants, and medicinally.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Polygonum in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Polygonum grow in a wide variety of cultural conditions
- In general polygonum can be treated as most garden subjects
- Species-specific cultural info will be developed when introduced to the One Community site
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (Goa bean, Winged bean)
Psophocarpus is a genus of 10 accepted species in the Fabaceae, native to Africa and Asia. They are vining herbaceous perennials often grown as annuals. The distinctive pods have four winged rachis lengthwise. All parts of the plant are edible and nutritious; being high in protein, vitamins, and oil. There is great variability in the plant, so varietal selection will be important to identify productive types.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Goa bean in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Seeds germinate within a week
- Vines are vigorous and need support
- Some varieties do not produce tubers
- The vines fix nitrogen and improve soil
- Some varieties are day-length sensitive
- Unsupported vines can form a living mulch
- Plants are grown from seed or re-sprout from unharvested tubers
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Seeds can be sown where they will grow or germinated indoors and transplanted out after last frost. The plants should be mulched and watered in well. Maintain irrigation through dry spells.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Schisandra (Magnolia vine, “Wu wei zi”- TCM)
Schisandra is a genus of 23 accepted species in the Schisandraceae, native to eastern Asia. They are deciduous woody dioecious vines, bearing clusters of red pendant berries on the female vines. These plants are considered an important medicinal food in most Asian countries. They are used as an adaptogen which shows positive effects on the immune, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Schisandra in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- One male vine is sufficient for eight females
- Vines are found growing in partial shade under trees in moist well drained soils
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Sinofranchetia sp. (“Chuan guo teng shu” – TCM)
Sinofranchetia is a monotypic genus in the Lardizabalaceae, native to China. It is a deciduous dioecious vine to 40 feet in height. It is found growing at forest edge. The purple berries can be produced on female vines in the absence of a male, but the fruits will be seedless. The stems of the vine are used in TCM to treat joint pain and gout; compounds have been found that are xanthine oxidase inhibitors.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Sinofranchetia in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Vines grow in full sun to partial shade
- Plants adapt to a wide range of soils and pH
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Vines should be mulched and watered in well.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Smilax sp. (Sarsaparilla)
Smilax is a genus of approximately 350 species of twining dioecious vines in the Smilacaceae, native to temperate to tropical regions worldwide. They occur under trees or at forest edges, rising from rhizomatous rootstocks. These rootstocks are the source of sarsaparilla flavoring, and yield a medicinal herb used as a tonic, and to treat premenstrual syndrome. The roots yield a number of phytosterols.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Smilax in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Smilax will grow in most soils, from full sun to partial shade
- They benefit from mulch and supplemental water in the summer months
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Regular irrigation should continue until signs of new growth appear.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Vitis (Grape)
Vitis is a genus of approximately 60 species of vining plants in the Vitaceae, native to the Northern Hemisphere. They are grown worldwide in favorable climates for the fruit, eaten fresh, dried into raisins, made into juice, or fermented into wine. The leaves are also edible and are eaten steamed or pickled. The fruits and leaves have been shown to very nutritious.
PLACEMENTS
We will grow Vitis in any suitable location.*
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Vitis is subject to a number of pests and diseases
- This plant is generally suited to a mediterranean climate
- Supplemental irrigation is sometimes given during the summer
- Many growers “dry farm” their vines, as they feel this gives grapes with the best flavor
- Vitus is suited for rain in the dormant winter season and a generally dry growing season
PLANTING GUIDELINES
Plants should be thoroughly mulched after planting and watered in well. Infrequent deep irrigation should continue for the first year to encourage the deep root system.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
CLICK IMAGES FOR PAGES WITH COMPLETE PLANT LISTS FOR THE OTHER SECTIONS
WHERE TO PURCHASE ALL PLANTS
Here are the results of our research for purchasing all food forest and outdoor plants. Unlike everything we will be growing in the aquapini and walipini structures and large-scale garden, we did not price out each individual plant listed here because we wish to wait for the specific planting plan that will be developed throughout the first year of the living on the property; a planting plan that may evolve this list significantly. We did, however, complete sufficient research so that anyone wishing to purchase any of the plants currently listed above will can do so.
We use the following key for all of the plant providers listed below. To jump directly to what you seek, use your browser’s Find Function and remember to put the parenthesis around the letter code for the category you are looking for. Here are the abbreviations with short descriptions of all the categories you will find:
(A) = APPLES
Apples will be an important component of One Community’s Food Forest. We will work to achieve maximum diversity of this important fruit. Any provider listed with an “(A)” is a good source to support anyone interested in growing a diversity of apples.
(B) = BIODIVERISTY
Websites listed with “(B)” are sources of plants that are of interest to our open source Botanical Garden model and the preservation of biodiversity. Look to these sources if you are interested in the preservation of biodiversity too.
(Bb) = BAMBOO
Bamboo has a broad diversity of uses. Any providers listed with a “(Bb)” offer bamboo plants.
(G) = GARLIC
Garlic is food, medicine, flavoring…an essential plant to any community. Mmmm…garlic!
(M) = MEDICINAL
Websites listed with “(M)” are sources of plant with a history of medicinal use.
(O) = ORCHARD
“(O)” providers are website sources of fruits that will be cultivated in mixed polyculture orchards at One Community.
(Tp) = TROPICALS
Providers listed with a “(TP)” provide plants that, in our case, will be limited to the Aquapini/Walapini/Zenapini structures. They may be fruit, medicinal, culinary, etc.
(Tr) – TREES
“(Tr)” providers supply trees for Community forest plantings.
(V) = VEGETABLES
Providers listed with a “(V)” are sites and sources of seeds and plants that will be grown in the community’s food gardens.
(W) = WILD FOODS
Providers listed with a “(W)” are website sources of plant that will be components of Zone 3 and beyond; food plant that do not require much tending or cultivation.
PLANT PROVIDERS
www.sacredsucculents.com (B) (G) (M) (Tr) (V) (W)
Ben Kamm’s collection of useful species includes much more than succulent genera, including California natives, Chilean species, wild food plants, and many little-known or hard to find medicinal plants. Many offerings are available nowhere else. Most have provenance data, describing where they were collected, ecotype, uses, etc. An excellent resource. Limited volume, most propagules are sold out early in the season.
www.centuryfarmorchards.com (A) (O)
Century Farm Orchards is a small commercial nursery dedicated to preserving and disseminating the apple collection of Lee Calhoun, who spent decades locating old apples of the American South. They are the only commercial source for many of these varieties. Not all varieties are propagated for sale every year, so it is advisable to contact them to place orders early. Their web site has excellent descriptions of these apples, their origins, flavors, keeping qualities etc.
www.ars.usda.gov (A) (O)
The National Agricultural Research Service is a department of the USDA. The center at Geneva, New York is associated with Cornell University, and is the repository of the nations collections of apple, grape, and tart cherry varieties. Nearly 7000 apples are maintained here, and are used in breeding programs. Small amounts of dormant budwood are available for many varieties. An important global resource.
www.tropicalfruitforum.com (M) (Tp)
This chat board is one of the best resources for anyone interested in growing tropical or subtropical fruit. Its worldwide membership includes plant breeders, backyard growers, commercial orchardists etc. They have an exchange page where members can buy, sell and trade from their collections. There are many varieties and species held among the membership that are not available from commercial sources.
www.colecionandofrutas.org (M) (Tp)
This is the website of Helton Josue, a Brazilian scientist whose passion for preserving the wild food plants of his region of Brazil has led him to collect and share a wide range of species that are unavailable elsewhere, several are species new to science and have not been formally described. He makes small lots of seed available as they ripen.
www.ecoseeds.com (M) (V) (W)
This is the website of the Redwood City Seed Company, one of the original heirloom seed sellers. Since 1972 Craig and Sue Dremenn have introduced hundreds of valuable varieties of garden vegetables to American gardeners.
www.jlhudsonseeds.net (B) (M) (Tr) (W)
Founded in 1911, J.L. Hudson, Seedsman has for over the last 30 years been operated by David Theodoropolos and Sherri Calkins who are committed to the motto “Preservation through dissemination” Their catalog is always a fascinating read, describing the history, biology, ethnobotany, chemistry etc. for many of the hundreds of species offered. A pioneering company, worthy of support.
www.4everseeds.com (M) (V) (W)
Source of heirloom seeds, wild food seeds, and dye plant seeds. They also market a hand operated oilseed press.
Offers over 600 varieties of heirloom tomatoes.
www.seedsavers.org (M) (V) (W)
Founded in 1975 by Kent Whealy and his family to share some of his own family’s heirloom garden seeds, SSE has grown into the largest grassroots seed preservation organization in the country. Access is by membership. They maintain a demonstration farm in Decorah Iowa and in addition to several thousand varieties of vegetables, they also have a Heritage Orchard of some 400 regional apple varieties, and 360 varieties of grape varieties from the famous grape breeder Elmer Swenson.
www.sandhillpreservation.com (V)
A real family farm, the Sandhill Preservation Center maintains hundreds of vegetable and grain varieties, as well as poultry breeds. They also have an extensive collection of sweet potato varieties and will share their techniques for successfully growing them in colder northern climates.
www.oikostreecrops.com (Tr) (W)
Sells seedlings of many temperate zone food forest species. has a particularly good selection of oaks, both timber and acorn types.
www.lawyernursery.com (M) (Tr) (W)
Wholesale nursery offering tree and shrubs seedlings and bulk seed of many common species to forestry projects and revegetation projects. Also fruit tree rootstocks in bulk and at good prices.
www.ediblelandscaping.com (M) (O) (Tr) (V) (W)
Good varietal selection of many standard and unusual food perennials.
www.bonitafruittrees.com (O) (Tp)
Extensive collection of subtropical and deciduous fruit trees.
www.rollingrivernursery.com (O) (Tr)
Fruit and nut tree nursery.
Main producer of avocado, citrus and subtropical fruit trees for commercial California groves.
Source of many rare tropical fruit tree species. Based in Hawaii but ships in bulk to Excalibur Nursery in Florida.
www.dnagardens.com (V) (W)
Canadian nursery that is the licensed propagator for the new “Ben” series of black currants.
Canadian vegetable seed supplier.
Nursery specializing in the production of trees inoculated with the endomycorrhizal fungi producing black and white truffles. The mycelia web in forest ecosystems is an important design element in evolving a food forest, as many tree species are benefitted by mycorrhizal association with certain fungal symbionts.
www.filareefarm.com (G) (V)
Seed garlic and potatoes.
www.hoodrivergarlic.com & www.thegarlicstore.com & www.greenmountaingarlic.com (G)
Seed garlic providers.
www.garlicfarm.ca & www.rasacreekfarm.com & www.snoetic.ca (G)
Canadian source of seed garlic.
www.richters.com (M) (V)
Canadian company offering medicinal plants and culinary herbs, either live plants or seeds. An excellent resource for the herb garden.
www.companionplants.com (M) (W)
Herbs, medicinals, culinary and dye plants and seeds.
www.yerbabuenanursery.com (B) (M) (W)
A significant percent of California native plants were used medicinally and this provider specializes in them and supplies information on traditional medicinal usage.
Nursery supplying ginseng rootlets for planting as well as bloodroot.
www.rareplantnursery.net (M) (V)
Herb and garden plant nursery. A few vegetable and fruit plants as well.
www.healingspiritplants.com (M)
California-based collection of medicinal plants. They list many rare species not widely available.
Florida-based nursery offering many uncommon subtropical herbs.
www.plantdelights.com (M) (W)
Texas nursery offering a wide variety of unusual plants including medicinal, food, bee pasture etc.
www.arneherbs.co.uk (M) (W)
UK source for over 900 herbs and wildflowers. Unknown if they ship outside the UK.
Massachusetts nursery dedicated to the reservation of at-risk medicinal plants.
Oregon nursery with a range of culinary and medicinal herbs.
www.mountaingardensherbs.com (M) (W)
Herbalists that offer workshops in Chinese herb cultivation, harvesting, processing and use. Grow a wide range of TCM herbs offered as seed and plants. Have a number of herbs unavailable elsewhere in North America.Also offers wild food plant of both the eastern U.S and a collection od ‘sansai’ – traditional wild mountain vegetables of Japan.
www.blackfootnativeplants.com (M) (W)
Montana nursery specializing in plants native to the bioregion including wild food and medicinal species.
www.silverhillseeds.co.za (B) (M) (W)
Seed company in South Africa offering a wide range of S.A natives including wild food and medicinal species. Seed is mainly collected from wild stands. Valuable source of some species unavailable outside Africa.
www.hawaiiantropicalplants.com (M) (Tp)
This Hawaiian nursery has some rare tropical medicinals, including yoco and cultivars of kava.
www.treefrogfarm.com (M) (W)
Pacific Northwest natives nursery including medicinal and wild food species.
www.horizonherbs.com (M) (W)
Since 1985 Richo Cech and his family have been collection growing and using plants on their Oregon farm. They offer a wide range of vegetable, culinary and medicinal seeds, roots and tubers.
www.heritageflowerfarm.com (B) (M)
Wide range of perennials, some with medicinal properties although this may not be noted on the website.
www.forestfarm.com (M) (Tr) (W)
Large wholesale nursery of tree shrub and fruit tree stock.
www.rareplantresearch.com (B) (M) (W)
Offering a selection of mostly tender arid-zone species with a particularly good collection of Burseraceae.
www.richardlyonsnursery.com (Tp)
Nursery offering mainly subtropical and tropical trees and shrubs including some rarities.
www.msknursery.com (B) (M) (Tr) (W)
Wide selection of trees shrubs and perennial including some rarities.
www.nolinnursery.com (O) (Tr)
Nut trees, persimmons, and pawpaws.
www.wagonwheelorchard.com (A) (O)
Offering over 1,000 apple varieties as benchgrafts.
www.justfruitsandexotics.com (O) (W)
Good varietal selection of many unusual fruits.
www.kuffelcreek.com (A) (O)
California nursery offering low-chill apple varieties for mild winter climates.
www.sunscapes.net (B) (M) (W)
Colorado nursery offering mostly drought tolerant perennials.
Baker Creek Seeds is an heirloom vegetable seed company offering a wide range of varieties.
California heirloom seed company offering organic seed for over 1600 varieties of vegetable,grain, herb and cover crop seed.
Heirloom vegetable, herb, grain seeds.
www.seedsofchange.com (M) (V)
Offering vegetable, herb and flower seed.
Maine company offering short-season and greenhouse adapted vegetable seed and berry plants. www.kitazawaseed.com (V)
Seed company offering a wide range of Asian vegetables, especially leafy greens. Lists species that are difficult to find elsewhere; pickling melon, water pepper, perilla, water dropwort, etc.
www.vermontbean.com (V) (G)
Seed company offering heirloom and open-pollinated vegetable seed, garlic and berry plants.
www.noursefarms.com (V) (O)
Since 1932, Nourse farms has been a supplier of cane berry, strawberry, rhubarb and asparagus plants.
www.agroforestry.co.uk (M) (W)
UK based company offering an extensive range of edible and medicinal temperate trees shrubs and perennials.
www.badgersett.com (Tr) (W)
Minnesota nursery and private research organization developing nut trees. Offering chestnuts hazels, hickories and pecans. Bred especially to withstand colder climates.
www.csr-inc.com (M) (W)
Conservation Seeding and Restoration Inc. is a seed company and nursery offering seed mixes and native plant revegetation services for the mountain west. Their species list includes wild food plants and medicinal species.
www.permaculturenursery.com (M) (W)
Offering some unusual edible perennials, including Phaseolus polystachyos, a perennial bean species.
www.onegreenworld.com (M) (O) (W)
Wide selection of edible species for temperate climates.
Gary Nabham’s pioneering organization dedicated to preserving the food plants of Native American cultures in the Sonoran Desert region.
Fruit tree nursery specializing in heirloom fruit varieties.
www.tierramadrefarm.com (A) (O)
Offers a wide range of temperate fruit trees. Has a particularly nice collection of of European pear varieties.
www.oldvaapples.com (A) (O)
Fruit tree nursery with a focus on the heritage apples of Virginia. Many unique varieties.
www.arboreumco.com (A) (O)
California nursery offering many rare and heirloom fruit varieties. One of the only sources of improved cultivars of tecojote (Crataegus mexicana).
Located in Puerto Rico, Montoso Gardens supplies many rare tropical fruit trees and seeds from their collection.
www.organicfarm.net (Tp)
Also in Puerto Rico, Sadhu Govardhan has an extensive collection of tropical fruit and food trees. He sell seeds and plants.
One of the largest collection of banana varieties available for sale. Rooted corms or tissue culture.
www.floridahillnursery.com (M) (Tp)
Located in Orlando Florida, they have an extensive collection of banana and pineapple varieties reproduced via tissue culture. Also other tropical ornamentals and gingers.
www.excaliburfruittrees.com (Tp)
Florida nursery offering a wide selection of tropical and subtropical fruiting plants. Has a good selection of jackfruit varieties.
www.desertsurvivors.org (M) (W)
Southern Arizona native plant nursery. Lists some rare desert edible and medicinal species.
Medicinal herb nursery.
www.australianplants.com (Bb) (W)
Located in Southern California, they offer a range of hard-to-find Australian and South African species for xeriscaping and mediterranean gardens.
www.bamboogarden.com (Bb) (W)
Oregon nursery specializing in bamboo.
www.bamboodirect.com (Bb) (W)
Oregon nursery specializing in bamboo.
www.bamboosourcery.com (Bb) (W)
California nursery specializing in bamboo.
www.walkeravenuenursery.com (Bb) (M) (W)
California nursery specializing in aquatic and bog plants including many edible and medicinal species.
www.raintreenursery.com (Bb) (M) (Tr) (V)
Located in Morton Washington, they offer fruit trees, nut trees, berries, vines, citrus, subtropicals, rootstocks, mushrooms and ornamentals.www.burntridgenursery.com (Bb) (Tr)
Located in the foothills of the Cascade mountains. Specialize in unusual and disease resistant trees, vines, and shrubs that produce edible nuts or fruits. Has Northwest native plants and ornamental and useful landscape trees.
SUMMARY
Through applied permaculture principles and proper stewardship it is possible to turn almost any piece of land into an abundant and thriving forest of food. As part of One Community’s Highest Good of All philosophy, and open source botanical garden model, we will be open source sharing our afforestation/reforestation experience as we create our food forest on the One Community property. This process will continue indefinitely and we will keep on-going records of this transformation through detailed notes and time-lapse videos (covering years of development) that we will add to this page as they are completed.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How do you intend to evolve this page?
Part of One Community’s Highest Good of All philosophy is open source sharing the complete details of what is possible with a food forest. Through our open source botanical garden model we will accession all plants on the property and entering the property and then keep detailed records of:
- Planting guidelines for each plant
- Cultural considerations for each plant
- Which plants do best in each of the different zones
- Harvest numbers and details on how to improve harvest volume
- The visual transformation of the property using carefully planned and maintained time-lapse photography
All of these details will be added and updated on this page indefinitely along with answers to questions raised by visitors to the property and this site.
Q: What if I have a suggestion for that I feel would be valuable to add to this page?
Please submit it to us using our Suggestions Page. There are also always positions open to join our team as either a Consultant or Pioneer.
Q: Why are all the names listed in latin?
Latin names are used first because they are universally accepted with common names following in parenthesis.
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