Chayote

Chayote, pronounced Chai-ow-tei, is a vine native to Mexico. Originally cultivated by the Aztecs, Chayote, or Sechium edule, was spread through conquest. Within the U.S., you can typically find this plant hanging along residencial fences or off arbors for decoration in restaurants in warmer regions like California, Florida, and the Gulf Coast. Identifying Chayote is fairly easy to do once you know to look for the fruit, which looks like long, green, and bumpy pears. This fruit is also edible and can be made into several different recipes. Its crisp texture has been compared to that of a potato, apple, or cucumber and can be eaten raw in salsas or salads or cooked and prepared like a squash or root vegetable to be served roasted or in stews.