Paracress

Seeds: 500  / Botanical name: Acmella oleracea

A sharp, spicy flavor as an alternative to pepper or chili

Paracress grows to a height of 20 to 40 centimeters and produces 2 to 3 centimeter long flower spikes with bright yellow blossoms and a red center that gradually fades towards the end of the flowering period. The shape of its flower heads led to the colloquial name "Hussar's Head." When chewed, it develops a unique, slightly peppery, tingling, and pleasantly spicy flavor, making it an interesting alternative to chili or pepper. The first harvest can usually begin two months after sowing. Due to its mild numbing effect, the leaves and flowers are said to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties for the mouth.

native to the Caribbean and tropical South America, particularly Brazil and Peru.