Sochan, Rudbeckia laciniata

Also known as cutleaf coneflower or green-headed coneflower, sochan is a cold-hardy perennial green native to North America and traditionally eaten by the Cherokee. Young leaves are tender and can be eaten raw or cooked, while older leaves become tougher and need to be cooked to be appetizing. The flavor is herbal, similar to other asters and reminiscent of parsley.

Sochan can grow in sun or shade and prefers moist, slightly acidic soil. It is an aggressive spreader and will fill a garden bed. Flower stalks get up to 10 ft tall, with yellow flowers blooming June through November.