* Features a variety of heirloom vegetables appealing to gourmands and gardeners alike * Growing heirloom plants is the ultimate way to eat local * Scarlet nantes get a lot more looks than the standard orange carrot Exploring the need for heirloom plants in the twenty-first century, Edible Heirlooms takes a look at the history and vitality of the heirloom plant, from Russian Red Kale to January King Cabbage. This informative guide collects 26 edible heirloom plants best suited to gardeners in the maritime West-from British Columbia to the San Francisco Bay area -- and provides information on species variety, growing tips, plant history and suggested uses. Chapters contain instructions on how to save your own seeds, and suggestions for starting a seed exchange among friends or a community garden in your neighborhood.