Crown Daisy / Tong Hao

Crown Daisy/Tong Hao (Chrysanthemum Coronarium L) is a member of the daisy family Asteraceae (Compositae), which also includes another common vegetable crop lettuce grown in Florida. This species is native to China and Europe. It is a traditional garden species in Europe and an important vegetable in Asia and Asian communities in other countries.

It has been grown in China for more than 900 years. This vegetable is called Tong Hao. Other names for Tong Hao include Tanghao Cai in Mandarin, and Tahn Ho, Tango, Tong Ho Choy, Tung Ho Choy, or Chong Ho Choy, in Cantonese. It is named Gul-chini in India, Shigiku, Shungiku, or Kikuna in Japan, Ssukgat in Korea, and Tan or Tan O in Vietnam. In English speaking countries, Tong Hao is called Crown Daisy, Garland Daisy, Edible Chrysanthemum, Garland Chrysanthemum, or Chrysanthemum Greens.

Health Benefits

Crown Daisy/Tong Hao is rich in mineral nutrients and vitamins. Its ß-carotene content is greater than other vegetables typically 1.5 to 30-fold greater than those levels in cucumber and eggplant. This leafy vegetable also contains various antioxidants. These antioxidants have potential health benefits for humans.

Health benefits of Crown Daisy/Tong Hao include:

• Weight loss
• Antioxidant protection
• Reduced risk of lung cancer
• Protection against cardiovascular problems, kidney stones, cellulite, bloating and bone loss