Time-tested edibles give you a world of diversity in your own backyard--and delicious flavors on your table.
What is an heirloom?
Although debate rages on the exact definition, an heirloom is-it's generally agreed-an open-pollinated variety of fruit or vegetable developed before mass commercial hybridization began in the 1950s. As such, its seeds grow true: The offspring look and taste just like their parents. Handed down from generation to generation, heirlooms have tended to be selected for flavor, not how well they survive shipping or how perfect they look. That's why 'Brandywine' tomatoes are so sweet and juicy, lemon cucumbers so zesty and crunchy, and 'Red Kuri' winter squash so creamy and nutty-flavored. And even if they're not the classic, flawlessly symmetrical specimens we're used to seeing in grocery stores, they're gorgeous in their own fascinating, idiosyncratic ways.
Lemon cucumber
Eat it like an apple or use it to garnish cold drinks. It's crisp and refreshing, without any bitterness.
> More: How to grow cucumbers
'Mexican Sour Gherkin' cucumber (Melothria scabra)
The fruit looks like a baby watermelon, but its flesh is crunchy like a cucumber.
> More: How to grow cucumbers
'Galeux d'Eysines' squash
This French heirloom's knotty, textured exterior is like brocade on salmon-colored silk.
> More: How to grow winter squash
'Pink Accordion' tomato
Its pleated shape resembles a satin evening clutch. A great tomato to stuff.
> More: How to grow tomatoes
'Lebanese Bunching' eggplant
Three or four eggplant grow on every stem.
> More: How to grow eggplant
'Asian Winged' bean
Feathery edges on the pods make these beans look as if they'll fly away.
> More: How to grow beans
'Green Nutmeg' melon
A compact melon with sweet flavor.
> More: How to grow melons
Related: 21 best crops for your edible garden
