Our Database
There are thousands of undervalued and overlooked food plants across the world. The Food Plants International (FPI) database exists to make knowledge about these plants accessible – supporting the production of locally relevant, nutritious foods and helping communities value their own resources.
Our searchable database includes information on:
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Scientific name
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Genus
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Common names (including local and regional names)
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Synonyms
- Edible parts
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Plant description
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Production and use notes
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Nutritional value
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Pictures
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References
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You can save your search results as a PDF and download it to make an instant book! Click on the drop down menu highlighted with a blue arrow.
With over 35,000 plants recorded, the database is the largest of its kind. While the data is not yet complete for every species, it continues to grow as new information is gathered. Contributing knowledge is a vital part of this work—if you have information to share, we’d love to hear from you.
The uses of this database are limited only by imagination. It can help identify local plants, address production issues, and highlight the most nutritious foods for vulnerable communities.
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Sustainability: Local plants are naturally adapted to their environments, making them more resilient to pests and diseases.
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Food Security: A diversity of food plants ensures a stable food supply, even in the face of environmental challenges.
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Nutrition: A varied diet built on many different plants provides balanced nutrition—what one plant lacks, another provides.
By drawing on this rich diversity, communities can build healthier, more sustainable food systems for the future.
To watch a video of how to search the FPI database click HERE
Important Disclaimer
Although great care has been taken to be as accurate as possible, neither the compiler nor the organization makes any expressed or implied representation as to the accuracy of the information contained in this database and cannot be held legally responsible or accept liability for any errors or omissions. Neither the compiler nor the organization can be held responsible from claims arising from the mistaken identity of plants or their inappropriate use. The compiler and the organization do not assume responsibility for any sickness, death or any other harmful effects resulting from eating or using any plant described in this database. Always be sure you have the correct plant and proper preparation by consulting specialist scientists or local users of the plants. This database is a work in progress and is regularly being amended.
For a listing of scientific plant names in our database click HERE
Please Note
Except where otherwise noted, content on this site is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License