{"title":"Exotic Edibles","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"butterfly-pea","title":"Butterfly Pea","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-sheets-root=\"1\"\u003eButterfly Peas are fast-growing trailing or climbing vines with attractive and edible blue flowers that have been used for centuries as a natural dye. Butterfly pea originates from tropical regions across Asia, where vines quickly climb supports during warm seasons. Gardeners value this species for its ornamental appeal and practical culinary applications. Vigorous habit suits planting on trellises, fences or containers placed in sheltered positions.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFlower petals can be used as a garnish, in dishes or to colour foods like rice. In beverages, it is used to colour both alcoholic drinks like gin and cocktails, frozen in ice cubes, as well as in herbal teas.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe seed pods are a rich source of protein, whilst the foliage can be used as a cattle feed or even mulched for green manure.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA half-hardy perennial in the tropics but best treated as an annual in our temperate climate. Don't sow until the ground warms up.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSowing Butterfly Pea\u003cbr\u003eThe seed has a hard external skin which keeps moisture out and slows germination, so some assistance will hasten the process or soak for 2-4 hours before sowing. Sow seed once soil temperatures rise during late spring or early summer. Light scarification can also improve germination speed before planting. Place the seed into well-drained soil, then cover lightly.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCaring for Butterfly Pea\u003cbr\u003eRegular watering supports healthy vine development during active growth periods. Full sun positions encourage abundant flowering throughout the summer months. Provide climbing support early to guide stems upward and reduce ground sprawl.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUse for Butterfly Pea\u003cbr\u003eCulinary use includes natural colouring for drinks, desserts and herbal infusions. Fresh butterfly pea petals are perfect for garnishes or decorative presentation.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eScarify: Slightly nick (toenail clippers), chip or sand one end of the seed.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlease note: Butterfly Pea is regarded as a Perennial only in a warm climate.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"30 seeds","offer_id":45022562517300,"sku":"F1050.pkt","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 grams","offer_id":46677418901812,"sku":"F1050.10grW","price":35.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/products\/F1050-2.png?v=1687997506"},{"product_id":"caigua","title":"Caigua","description":"\u003cp\u003ePronounced Kay-wa, this South American vine is grown for its prolific fruit that can be eaten raw or pickled. Best eaten at an immature stage when fruits are at 2-3cm in size. The leaves and shoots can also be eaten as greens. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eTraditionally used to reduce blood cholesterol and high blood pressure but now regarded as a gourmet item for summer salads with a pleasant cucumber-like crispness and taste. Also good pickled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eA vigorous climber, support with a trellis or fence or leave to sprawl over the ground. Frost tender so best sown after the risk of frost has passed.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"10 seeds","offer_id":45066930716980,"sku":"V8080.pkt","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"100 seeds","offer_id":45066930749748,"sku":"V8080.100sdsW","price":20.5,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/Web_Tile-2.png?v=1757642781"},{"product_id":"cape-gooseberry","title":"Cape Gooseberry","description":"\u003cp\u003eJuicy little golden ball when ripe, enclosed in a 'Chinese Lantern' calyx. Fruit can be eaten raw or used for preserves and in Mexican dishes using Tomatillo. A sprawling bush habit which benefits from support. Harvest fruit when calyx changes colour to golden brown and a papery texture.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"100 seeds","offer_id":45066930782516,"sku":"V8081.pkt","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 grams","offer_id":45066930815284,"sku":"V8081.5grW","price":30.8,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/V8081-1A.jpg?v=1723769005"},{"product_id":"carob-tree","title":"Carob Tree","description":"\u003cp\u003eCultivated for its edible pods which are dried, ground and used to replace cocoa powder. Mostly dioecious with females setting the pods. Highly ornamental and worth growing as specimen tree. Reasonably frost hardy. Slow to germinate, the hard seed coat requires scarification. Needs bright light and warmth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eScarify: Slightly nick (toenail clippers), chip or sand one end of the seed.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"13 seeds","offer_id":45066932715828,"sku":"V8094.pkt","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/V8094-1_30f1d827-3349-40f8-a343-2b880c7f61bf.jpg?v=1723770582"},{"product_id":"goji-berry","title":"Goji Berry","description":"\u003cp\u003eA deciduous, woody perennial from China, renowned for highly nutritious fruit. Loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants the bright orange-red fruit are dried to preserve them for use in baking, muesli, casseroles or as a snack. The fruit can also be made into juice. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eRelatively easy to grow, plants take 2-3 years to fruit, preferring to grow in well limed, free-draining soil and are frost hardy. Trees will fruit better when grown together. Watch for slugs and snails.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAlso known as Wolfberry.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"50 seeds","offer_id":45066940809524,"sku":"V8157.pkt","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"5 grams","offer_id":45066940842292,"sku":"V8157.5grW","price":31.3,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"10 grams","offer_id":45066940875060,"sku":"V8157.10grW","price":50.15,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/products\/V8157-1.png?v=1688011025"},{"product_id":"kiwano-horned-melon","title":"Kiwano Horned Melon","description":"\u003cp\u003eGrapefruit size oval melon with horn-like spines and yellow orange skin with lime green jelly-like flesh. Refreshing fruit which tastes of banana, cucumber and lemon. With horned spines and a vine with fine spiny hairs, best handled wearing gloves. Produces up to 20 fruit per vine.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"30 seeds","offer_id":45066941661492,"sku":"V8167.pkt","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 grams","offer_id":45066941694260,"sku":"V8167.10grW","price":14.1,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"20 grams","offer_id":45066941727028,"sku":"V8167.20grW","price":22.55,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50 grams","offer_id":45066941759796,"sku":"V8167.50grW","price":50.8,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"100 grams","offer_id":45066941792564,"sku":"V8167.100grW","price":96.4,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/V8167-1_987900cf-e273-4df3-a5cd-f10c925e46cb.jpg?v=1725595438"},{"product_id":"moringa-horseradish-tree","title":"Moringa Horseradish Tree","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fast-growing tropical tree that is an extraordinary edible superfood, Moringa, also referred to as Horseradish Tree or Drumstick Tree, are rich in vitamins, minerals and a complete protein. Valued across tropical regions, the growth habit of Moringa suits home gardeners who seek productive, edible plants with ornamental appeal. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMoringa is a heat-loving plant that is fast-growing in sunny locations and thrives in most soil types, but doesn't tolerate hard frosts. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal\"\u003eMoringa is remarkably versatile — virtually every part of the plant is edible and used differently:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeaves\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe most commonly used part. Young leaves and shoots are eaten fresh in salads, added to smoothies and juices, or cooked like spinach in stir-fries, curries, soups and dals. They have a mild, slightly peppery, watercress-like flavour. Leaves are also dried and ground into a fine green powder — the \"superfood\" moringa powder sold in health stores — added to smoothies, sprinkled on food or stirred into drinks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePods (Drumsticks)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe long, green seed pods — commonly called drumsticks in South Asian cooking — are harvested young and cooked in curries, soups and stews. You don't eat the outer skin; instead you scrape the soft interior flesh and seeds out with your teeth. They're a staple in Indian cuisine, particularly in sambar (a South Indian lentil soup).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeeds\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYoung seeds from immature pods are eaten like peas — boiled or roasted. Mature dried seeds are pressed for moringa oil (also called ben oil), a high-quality edible and cosmetic oil. The seeds also have water-purifying properties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEdible and mildly sweet — used in salads, fritters, or brewed as a tea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoots\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe root is ground and used as a condiment in some cultures, described as tasting similar to horseradish (moringa is sometimes called the horseradish tree). However the roots contain alkaloids so consumption should be moderate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy it's considered a superfood\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe leaves are extraordinarily nutritious — gram for gram they contain more vitamin C than oranges, more calcium than milk, more iron than spinach, and are a complete protein source, which is exceptionally rare for a plant. This makes it particularly valued in food security contexts globally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSowing Moringa \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBegin sowing during warmer months once soil temperatures remain consistently high. A heat pad is recommended to germinate Moringa seed as the soil temperature for optimum germination is 20-30°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDue to the very hard seed coat, it is recommended to scarify the seed prior to sowing. To scarify seed slightly, nick (toenail clippers), chip or sand one end of the seed. Soaking in warm water for 2-4 hours may also help to soften the seed coat prior to sowing. \u003cbr\u003eSow seed about 2.5cm deep and place the seed horizontally\/flat and cover with seed raising mix.  Maintain moisture until germination occurs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrepared seeds perform best when sown directly into deep containers before transplanting to their final location in the garden once seedlings are large enough and have been hardened off. Biodegradable containers are best so the seedling roots do not need to be disturbed when ready to plant in the garden.\u003cbr\u003eIn warm climates it can be preferable to sow seeds directly where the tree is intended to grow because they have a long, fragile taproot that can be sensitive to transplanting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare for Moringa \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYoung Moringa Horseradish trees benefit from sheltered placement away from frost-prone areas. Regular watering during establishment encourages strong root development, while mature trees tolerate dry conditions well. Light pruning supports branching and a manageable size within home gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUses for Moringa \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMoringa Horseradish plants can be used for culinary purposes and traditional wellness practices, with many plant parts containing dense nutrients. Moringa Horseradish is also used for ornamental reasons in the garden.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"10 seeds","offer_id":45066948641076,"sku":"V8208.pkt","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"100 seeds","offer_id":45066948673844,"sku":"V8208.100sdsW","price":16.4,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1000 seeds","offer_id":45066948706612,"sku":"V8208.1000sdsW","price":131.35,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/V8208-1_79e00ab3-5ff1-46e5-b225-082547058567.jpg?v=1725597298"},{"product_id":"passionfruit-large-black","title":"Passionfruit Large Black","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fabulous fruiting vine that produces delicious purple-skinned fruits a must for the home gardener. Vigorous climber needing to grow up trellis in a sunny position. Mulch and water well over the summer months. Monitor for vine hopper and sooty mould on fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"30 seeds","offer_id":45066951360820,"sku":"V8227.pkt","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 grams","offer_id":45066951393588,"sku":"V8227.10grW","price":15.85,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"20 grams","offer_id":45066951426356,"sku":"V8227.20grW","price":25.35,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"50 grams","offer_id":45066951459124,"sku":"V8227.50grW","price":57.05,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"100 grams","offer_id":45066951491892,"sku":"V8227.100grW","price":108.4,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/V8227-1_2fe5bd18-639c-4c1b-a5ea-719ea76d81c8.jpg?v=1720667504"},{"product_id":"pepino","title":"Pepino","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-sheets-root=\"1\"\u003ePepino is an easy-to-grow melon-like fruiting bush from South America. Pepino fruit has a unique cream colour and violet stripes with flesh that is firm and sweet, similar to a rockmelon but not as musky. The bushy, upright plant is self-fertile and cold-tolerant. Cut back after frosts, and it will happily regrow.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlease Note: Due to having very small seeds, we pack this variety into Natureflex™ cellulose bags that are certified home compostable before placing them within our usual foil packets.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSowing Pepino\u003cbr\u003eUsing the transplant method, sow seeds in trays with fine seed-raising mix during spring once temperatures rise. Light coverage supports germination while preventing seed displacement. Maintain gentle moisture until seedlings establish strong growth. Once established, transfer seeds to the ground.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCaring for Pepino\u003cbr\u003eEnsure crops sit in sunny and sheltered sites to encourage fruit development and sweetness. Regularly water pepino crops to support flowering and fruiting during warmer months. Post-frost pruning is also encouraged to promote vigorous regrowth for the following seasons.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUses of Pepino\u003cbr\u003ePepino is great as a fresh snacking fruit, in salads or dessert platters. The mild flavour of pepino pairs well with savoury dishes or preserves. Home gardeners value pepino for reliable yields, flavour and unique appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"6 seeds","offer_id":45066952409396,"sku":"V8235.pkt","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"100 Seeds","offer_id":45066952442164,"sku":"V8235.100sdsW","price":57.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false},{"title":"1000 seeds","offer_id":45066952474932,"sku":"V8235.1000sdsW","price":456.05,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/products\/V8235-1.png?v=1688019301"},{"product_id":"roselle","title":"Roselle","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-sheets-root=\"1\"\u003eRoselle is a beautiful annual hibiscus with a range of culinary uses and applications. The bright red calyxes can be used to make a zingy tea, syrup or jam, or to give champagne cocktails a red glow. The flowers and young leaves are edible with a citrus tang and are widely used in Asian cuisine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSowing Roselle\u003cbr\u003eLike its cousin, the Okra, Roselle will transplant carefully but is best directly sown into a sunny, humus-rich location after frosts have well and truly passed. Spacing them 1m apart or further will encourage more buds to form. Sow 2 seeds in the same spot and thin out the weakest one. Or sow into a biodegradable pot that can be planted directly into the garden without disturbing the roots.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCaring for Roselle\u003cbr\u003eRegular watering of Roselle will help to encourage steady growth during early development stages. Planting Roselle in warm and sheltered spots will help to support flowering and calyx formation. Ensure adequate spacing to improve airflow and reduce competition between plants.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUses of Roselle\u003cbr\u003eBright calyxes suit teas, syrups, preserves and beverage colouring. Young foliage and blooms also feature in savoury dishes across Asian cuisines. Roselle is also great as an ornamental flower in home gardens and has stunning decorative value.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"40 seeds","offer_id":45066959978804,"sku":"V8279.pkt","price":4.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 grams","offer_id":45066960011572,"sku":"V8279.10grW","price":13.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"20 grams","offer_id":45066960044340,"sku":"V8279.20grW","price":20.8,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"50 grams","offer_id":45066960077108,"sku":"V8279.50grW","price":46.8,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"100 grams","offer_id":45066960109876,"sku":"V8279.100grW","price":88.95,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/V8279-1_eadc10ea-ae8a-4be6-b2f0-052e587aca85.jpg?v=1725600196"},{"product_id":"tamarillo-large-red","title":"Tamarillo Large Red","description":"\u003cp\u003eA subtropical, so plant in a sheltered position away from winds and frost. Regular watering and heavy mulching is crucial, especially during dry periods and will encourage good fruit set. Producing in 18 months but short-lived so replace every 3 to 4 years. Ripe fruit are bronze-red with a tangy flavour.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"100 seeds","offer_id":45066962403636,"sku":"V8296.pkt","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 grams","offer_id":45066962436404,"sku":"V8296.5grW","price":18.85,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/V8296-1_63bbcc0c-bc49-4634-bb97-7f54582e67e6.jpg?v=1720749731"},{"product_id":"papaya-red-lady-f1","title":"Papaya Red Lady F1","description":"\u003cp\u003eA vigorous, semi-dwarf hybrid ideal for NZ’s subtropical gardens. Fruit weighs 1.5–2kg, with vibrant red-orange, tender-sweet flesh. Plants reach 60–80cm before fruiting, producing 30+ fruits over 4.5–8 months, and remain productive for two years. Prefers warm, sheltered sites or protected containers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kings Seeds NZ","offers":[{"title":"15 seeds","offer_id":48677088788788,"sku":"V8410.pkt","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 grams","offer_id":48870742491444,"sku":"V8410.5grW","price":16.85,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 grams","offer_id":48870742524212,"sku":"V8410.10grW","price":26.95,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/files\/V8410-1_525c2dc3-ffca-4853-92a5-ed7a024409d5.png?v=1752445840"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0729\/0555\/6276\/collections\/12_786d830f-148a-47a5-b1ea-87a9878a0630.png?v=1785222940","url":"https:\/\/www.kingsseeds.co.nz\/collections\/exotic-edibles.oembed","provider":"Kings Seeds NZ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}