YACON  -   Bolivian Sunroot  Smallanthus sonchifolius 
 ​Member of the Sunflower family

OKINAWA SPINACH  
Gynura crepioides

From the Andes where it has been cultivated for 1500 years
The root is sweet, crisp & juicy like an apple . 
Tubers  also  have  pro-biotic  effects, meaning they are used by beneficial bacteria that enhance colon health and aid digestion.
Edible tubers: large storage tubers (that are eaten)
Plant needs  7-9 mo to form large tubers - needs frost protection during this time.
It can be easily grown in large pots with good well drained potting soil and kept moist.
Damaged by frost, the roots are not harmed unless they freeze solid.
Tubers are ready to be harvested after the tops die off. 
Best in partial sun.
Needs plenty of water
COLD HARDINESS: 9 -11

FYI:  A syrup is made from its cluster of storage roots. The syrup looks and tastes like molasses or caramelized sugar and has become popular as a weight loss supplement.

With an extremely low score on the glycemic index, half the calories of sugar and a high concentration of indigestible inulin, yacon is a great natural sweetener for diabetics and for those who want to kick their sugar addiction. You can use yacon syrup in baked goods, smoothies, desserts, sauces and dressings, just to name a few of the possibilities!

Sub-tropical, dense perennial vegetable that grows as an edible ground cover in the garden.
Grows fast and gives you a lot of salad greens!
Has shiny leaves that are green on top and purple on the bottom.
Great  in salads, or can be cooked (but heat  turns the leaves green) Does not taste like spinach, has a crisp nutty taste.
Many people report it has medicinal properties and lowers cholesterol.

FULL SUN , PARTIAL SHADE, BRIGHT SHADE
COLD HARDINESS : ZONE 9 
​FREEZES TO THE GROUND BUT COMES BACK IN THE SPRING.