According to others, the name “chow chow” derives from the French word “chou,” which means cabbage. Some people think it has something to do with the delight of the Chinese railroad workers in the 1800s. Contrary to common belief, all parts of this climbing plant—including the roots, stems, seeds, and leaves—can be consumed, not only the fruit or vegetable that grows on it. The ground-based vine, which may grow up to 12 meters, has heart-shaped leaves that are 10–25 cm broad and have tendrils on the stem.