Many edible plants considered exotic in the Western world are actually quite mainstream in other cultures. This volume provides comprehensive coverage of tropical and semitropical food plants, reviewing scientific and technological information as well as their culinary uses. A user-friendly format enables readers to easily locate information on botanical and agricultural aspects, economic and social importance, food uses, storage, preparation, and potential toxicity. The book also contains a chapter that reviews important historical, economic, geopolitical, health, environmental, and ethical considerations associated with exotic food plants. The book is enhanced by more than 200 drawings, many chosen from historical art of extraordinary quality.