A wild, native American plant that sprouts in early spring. Ours is the tender, tear drop shaped variety attached to slender, chewable stems which are similarly juicy and mild. The leaf face is green while the underside and stems are mauve. With a flavor that combines spinach and mache. Miners lettuce is ideal for adding to salads and garnishing delicate dishes. The leaves can also be wilted over vegetable and bean soups. They got their name by providing ready sustenance to miners during the California Gold Rush.