The Forager's Harvest: A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants

Environmental Intolerance Test (Know Your Allergies Before Heading Outdoors!)

PLANT FAMILY:

Fagaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Oaknut 

SEASON(S):

Fall  

HABITAT:

Oaktrees 

HOW TO EAT:

Break open and soak in hot water. This will remove the tannic acid of which produces a very bitter taste. 

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include improved energy and digestion, regulate sugar levels, heart protection, builds strong bones and great for bones after an accident. Acorns are also known for helping with inflammation, improving skin and getting rid of diarrhea.  

FYI: 

Unless boiled in hot water you can expect an extremely bitter taste.

PLANT FAMILY:

Rosaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Apple 

SEASON:

Late Summer - Late Fall 

HABITAT: 

Wooded areas that offer a good amount of sunlight. Wild apple trees can be found in zones 3-9, where there are moderate temperatures, sunlight, away from salt water and sandy/clay mixed soil.   

HOW TO EAT: 

Wild apples can be consumed raw, boiled, sauteed or added as an ingredient to any number of recipes.  

BENEFITS:

Promotes liver health, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, high fiber, cholesterol reduction and heart health.  

FYI:  

Wild apples are heavily enjoyed by wildlife.

PLANT FAMILY:  

Rosaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Chokeberries 

SEASON:  

Mid to late summer and ripen in the fall 

HABITAT:  

Aronia bush 

HOW TO EAT:  

You can eat this fruit raw or sun dried. They are great ingredients for things such as smoothies and desserts.  

BENEFITS:

Defends cells against damage that results from free radicals, thus aiding the body from heart disease and cancers. This fruit is high in antioxidants and great for overall immune support.  

FYI:  

This fruit is known for its mouth drying effect.

PLANT FAMILY:

Oleaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Fraxinus

SEASON(S)

Late spring through fall

HABITAT:

This tree can be found just about any place. It requires a decent amount of sunlight and moist soil.  

HOW TO EAT:

The long petal shaped fruits and shoots can be eaten raw such as a salad, however, they can also be cooked and added to a variety of meals from soups to stir fry.

BENEFITS:

Ash is known for its beneficial effects on diabetes, diarrhea, heart disease, gout and a few other conditions that are impacted by cardiovascular quality and diet.  

FYI: 

This tree has been under attack by a wood-boring beetle known as the Emerald Ash Borer. This bug was accidentally introduced to North America from Eastern Asia. If you take any of the wood home or with you to camp, please be mindful as the goal is to slow the spread of this pest while environmentalists search for a permanent solution.

PLANT FAMILY:

Poaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Bamboo shoots, Bamboo sprouts 

SEASON(S)

April to June

HABITAT:

Bamboo is diverse in where it can be found. Usually found in warm wooded areas with lots of moisture, it can also be found in colder mountainous regions as well. If you have bamboo in your region you've no doubt seen it around. It's super invasive and will make its presence known.

HOW TO EAT:

Bamboo shoots are consumable to humans, however, the fibrous exterior of the shoots must be shaved off due to toxins such as cyanogenic glycoside that can cause gut irritation. Shoots can be boiled, sauteed or braised.  To get to this point simply cut down the bamboo, take a knife and shave it down to the core and separate the white center. This is the part you are able to eat.

BENEFITS:

Bamboo prevents constipation and stimulates the appetite due to its high fiber content. It has also been shown to improve diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.  

FYI: 

Bamboo is easily in the top 5 most useful plants in the world. Providing food, building material and even fuel.

PLANT FAMILY:

Poaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Echinochloa, Barnyard millet, cockspur grass, Japanese millet 

SEASON(S)

Summer (germination period from late winter to early spring) 

HABITAT:

This low maintenance grass can be found on lawns, fields and roadsides. 

HOW TO EAT:

The seeds, grains, can be boiled and roasted. 

BENEFITS:

Barnyard grass can be used to make flour by grinding its seeds.  

FYI: 

While this weed is hated across the world, using it to produce flour can help you beat it at its own game.

PLANT FAMILY:

Amaryllidaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Allium ursinum, Ramsons, Wild garlic, Cowleekes, Cows's leek, Cuckrams, Broad leaved garlic, Bear leak, Eurasian wild garlic

SEASON(S)

April to May, flowers in June 

HABITAT:

Generally wooded areas with moist soil.  

HOW TO EAT:

After washing off they can be used in salads, as herbs or boiled in a soup.

BENEFITS:

Helps with respiratory issues, bronchitis, common cold and fever.  

FYI: 

This plant is referred to as bear's garlic because it's thought to be a favorite of bears.

This bag is perfect for mushrooms and all sorts of foraged jewels to make your efforts so much easier.  Durable, lightweight and super convenient. 

This little guy will make a BIG difference in the field.  When it comes to making dents in just the right places this should always be a weapon of choice.  

Every forager should have a pocket knife, as they provide a full range of utility in situations where you never know what tools you may need.    

Plastic bags are perfect for foraging, as they provide a secure storage option that is lightweight and transparent.  

PLANT FAMILY:

Rosaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Prunus serotina, wild black cherry, rum cherry and mountain black cherry.

SEASON(S)

Spring to Fall

HABITAT:

This plant can be found in areas that are moist or dry, open woods; fence rows, old fields. Thickets, woodlands, canyons, floodplains, and lower riparian slopes. 

HOW TO EAT:

The cherries can be eaten raw, be sure to pit them first. They can also be used in jellies, jams, pies, and as a flavoring extract in drinks and syrups. 

BENEFITS:

Hypertension, bronchitis, diarrhea and cough.  

FYI: 

Warning: No other part other than the berry should ever be eaten, as it contains a high toxic poison that can be fatal if ingested. Stick to the berries!

PLANT FAMILY:

Rosaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Rubus blackberry, Rubus allegheniensis, Allegheny Blackberry.

SEASON(S)

Late Spring to Early Summer

HABITAT:

Blackberries can be found in dry places, open woods and pastures and often along the roadside.

HOW TO EAT:

You can consume raw (be sure to wash thoroughly), or use for baking in things such as pies and cookies. Great for juicing as well, including mixed drinks.

BENEFITS:

Blackberries are loaded with fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Manganese. They are also good for oral health in extracted form, equaling antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Brain health is also on the list of health benefits. 

FYI: 

Blackberries can grow in the sun, partly shaded and fully shaded areas.

PLANT FAMILY:

Caryophyllaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Silene vulgaris, bird’s eggs, bladder campion, blue root, bubble-poppy, cobwell, devil’s rattlebox, maiden’s tears, maidenstears, rattlebox, rattleweed, sea pink, snappery, white bottle, white hen, Bladder Silene, Cowbell, Blaassilene, smllor and Taubenkropf-Leimkraut.

SEASON(S)

Mid-June to September 

HABITAT:

Can be found on grassy slopes, roadsides, stream banks and arable land.

HOW TO EAT:

Bladder Campions can be eaten raw or cooked. You want to consume the young plants, and do so in moderation. The leaves are sweet and are often used in salads. The shoots should be cooked. They have a taste similar to bitter green peas.

BENEFITS:

Good for the treatment of ophthalmia, and can also treat constipation, poisoning, intestinal pain, itch, scabies, wounds and a host of skin conditions.  

FYI: 

A little known fact is that the root is used as a soap substitute for washing clothes and more. By simmering the root in hot water you will produce soap.

PLANT FAMILY:

Ericaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Vaccinium, Cyanococcus, Vaccinium corymbosum, Highbush blueberry.

SEASON(S)

Mid-July to Mid-August 

HABITAT:

Habitat includes oak woods, dry barrens, bogs and swamps.  

HOW TO EAT:

Blackberries can be consumed raw (wash thoroughly), used in baking, mixed drinks or any number of dishes.

BENEFITS:

Blueberries are heavy in antioxidants and are great for stress management, as well as cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure. They are also loaded with vitamins and minerals.

FYI: 

Blueberries are also known to fight cancer, bone strength, heart and skin health.

PLANT FAMILY:

Asteraceae (Plantae)

OTHER NAMES:

Cirsium vulgare, Spear Thistle, Cirsium horridulum, bristly thistle, horrid thistle, yellow thistle.

SEASON(S)

Fall to Spring  

HABITAT:

Habitats include peaty or sandy fields, marshes and shores.  

HOW TO EAT:

The leaves can be eaten as is, simply remove the spikes and use a pair of shears or scissors to remove leaves. You can also cut out the v-shaped central vein.

BENEFITS:

Milk Thistle health benefits include liver and skin health, cholesterol reduction, supports weight loss, reduces insulin resistance and helps with asthma. Also known for limiting the spread of cancer, supports bone health and improves cognition.

FYI: 

Also can be used to make tea.

PLANT FAMILY:

Rubiaceae (Plantae)

OTHER NAMES:

Cephalanthus occidentalis, Common Button Willow, Honey Bells, Honeybells, Honey Balls, Honeyballs, Button-bush.  

SEASON(S)

June to September

HABITAT:

Habitat include marshes, limestone bluffs, creeks, swamps, prairies, sand, loam, clay, moist areas near ponds and streams.  

HOW TO EAT:

This plant can be eaten raw or cooked with other food. Also used for juicing, smoothies, wine, jelly and baking.

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include support for diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhages, constipation, fevers and more.

FYI: 

Native Americans used medicinally. Everything from sore eyes to inflammation.

PLANT FAMILY:

Thelephoraceae (fungus) 

OTHER NAMES:

Cantharellus, Craterellus, Gomphus, Cantharellus cibarius and Polyozellus. 

SEASON(S)

Late Spring to Mid-Summer

HABITAT:

Habitat is hot, humid, damp weather. 

HOW TO EAT:

Chanterelles can be eaten raw or cooked. Sauteing is the preferred way to cook them. Of course they can be added to salad and other dishes as desired.  

BENEFITS:

Boosts immunity, fights development of cancers and reduces inflammation.  

FYI: 

Late season blossoms can take place in November.

PLANT FAMILY:

Fomitopsidaceae (Fungi) 

OTHER NAMES:

Laetiporus sulphureus, crab-of-the-woods, sulphur polypore, sulphur shelf. 

SEASON(S)

Early Spring to Fall 

HABITAT:

They grow on dead or dying hardwood trees. Common trees include oak, cherry or beech.  

HOW TO EAT:

DO NOT EAT RAW. Take the time to cook (according to your liking) and you will enjoy this treat. You should keep in mind that it does not taste like chicken, but does have a meaty taste to it, some compare it to lobster, but ultimately it depends how you choose to prepare it.  

BENEFITS:

Check of the woods is a great source of antioxidants, fiber, potassium, vitamin C and A.  

FYI: 

This mushroom does not taste anything like chicken and should never be eaten raw.

While foraging you will encounter lots of things, including pests and plenty of sun! Protect yourself and increase your comfort so that you can keep your focus where it should be.     

Baskets are perfect for placing finds without losing sight of what you’ve collected or damaging them.  

Perfect for a long day of foraging, offering flexibility, durability and maximum comfort. Worry less about what you grab and more about what you see! 

Shears are unbelievably useful for foraging.  They provide convenience and efficiency like no other tool. Don’t hit the woods without a pair!    

PLANT FAMILY:

Euphorbiaceae (Plantae) 

OTHER NAMES:

Chamaesyce hypericifolia, Graceful Sandmat, Graceful Spurge, Chickenweed, Large-spotted Spurge, Garden Spurge, Fluxweed, Baby's-breath Euphorbia. 

SEASON(S)

May to September

HABITAT:

Typical habitat consists of well-drained soils, sun or partly shady.  

HOW TO EAT:

Chickenweed can be eaten raw or cooked. Fresh plants are great for salads, stews, pesto or stir fries.

BENEFITS:

Chickenweed can be used for joint pain, wounds, skin ulcers, lung diseases, stomach and bowel issues such as IBS and more.

FYI: 

Chickenweed is native to Eurasia but has been naturalized throughout the world.

PLANT FAMILY:

Cyperaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Cyperus esculentus, Yellow Nutsedge, Chufa Sedge, Yellow Nut-grass. 

SEASON(S)

June to October

HABITAT:

Habitat consists of moist soil, with full or part shade from the sun.

HOW TO EAT:

The roots can be eaten raw or cooked. Based upon your taste and preference, this plant can be used in a multitude of recipes.  

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include heart health, immune health, blood sugar support, digestive support and is loaded with nutrients.  

FYI: 

Chufa tubers are especially nutritious for wild turkeys.

PLANT FAMILY:

Rubiaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Galium, Galium aparine, Stickywilly, Catchweed Bedstraw, Cleavers, Common Bedstraw, Sticky Weed.

SEASON(S)

April 

HABITAT:

Habitat consists of thickets and connected to bushes in the woods.  

HOW TO EAT:

Both the leaves and stems can be cooked and used before fruit appears on plant. This plant is great for soups and other ingredients for various dishes.  

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include lymphatic system support by improving its ability to flush out toxins, thus decreasing congestion and reduce swelling.  

FYI: 

When roasted, the seeds make for a pretty good coffee substitute.

PLANT FAMILY:

Diapensiaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Galax urceolata, Beetleweed, Galax, Coltsfoot, Wand Flower. 

SEASON(S)

May to June

HABITAT:

Habitat consists of mountain woods, either moist or dry.

HOW TO EAT:

This plant can be eaten raw or cooked. Great for salads and ingredients for meal according to taste.

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include treatment for gout, flu, colds, respiratory conditions and fever.  

FYI: 

Coltsfoot has been used as cough medicine in western herbalism and traditional chinese medicine for over 2,500 years.

PLANT FAMILY:

Asteraceae

OTHER NAMES:

Dracopis amplexicaulis, Clasping Coneflower, Clasping-leaf Coneflower.

SEASON(S)

April 

HABITAT:

Habitat includes depressions, ravines and ditches.  

to July

HOW TO EAT:

The entire plant is edible, cooked or raw, although you probably won't prefer it in its raw state. Coneflower is commonly used to make tea or ingredient to any number of dishes. Its flavor is pretty strong and often honey, milk or sugar is used to improve its overall taste.

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include immunity boosting, blood sugar support, anxiety reduction, skin health and ani-inflammation.  

FYI: 

Liquid capsule version of this plant is sold commercially.

PLANT FAMILY:

Rosaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Malus angustifolia, Southern Crabapple, Narrowleaf Crabapple, Wild Crabapple, Southern Crab, Narrowleaf Crab, Wild Crab

SEASON(S)

March to May 

HABITAT:

Habitat includes fence rows, old fields, moist woods and woodland borders.  

HOW TO EAT:

Crabapples can be eaten raw or used as ingredients for pies, smoothies and a variety of other dishes.  

BENEFITS:

Crabapples are a great source of vitamin C, iron, calium, phosphorus, manganese and magnesium.  

FYI: 

Crabapple trees are known as "jewels of the landscape" because they hold on to their appeal 

throughout the year.

PLANT FAMILY:

Poaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Digitaria adscendens, Digitaria sanguinalis var. ciliaris, Digitaria sanguinalis var. marginata, Digitaria sanguinalis var. rhachiseta, Panicum adscendens, Panicum ciliare, Syntherisma marginata.

SEASON(S)

Spring to Summer

HABITAT:

Any situation where grass is able to grow, including but not limited to lawns, golf greens and open fields.  

HOW TO EAT:

This plant is entirely edible, raw or cooked. It is common to bake crab grass for a crunchy snack, or add to a salad.

BENEFITS:

Crabgrass is loaded with nutrients and is 15 to 20 percent protein.

FYI: 

Crabgrass has been used in the treatment of gonorrhea.

PLANT FAMILY:

Medeola

OTHER NAMES:

Medeola virginiana, Indian Cucumber, Indian Cucumber-root, currants. 

SEASON(S)

May to June 

HABITAT:

Habitat consists of moist woodlands.

HOW TO EAT:

This plant can be eaten raw and is often used in salads. The taste is similar to that of a cucumber.

BENEFITS:

This plant has been used as a tea to assist children with convulsions during seizures.  

FYI: 

This plant is currently classified as scarce and should only be foraged when necessary.

PLANT FAMILY:

Asteraceae

OTHER NAMES:

Taraxacum officinale, Orange Dwarfdandelion, Twoflower Dwarfdandelion, Krigia biflora var. biflora.  

SEASON(S)

April to August

HABITAT:

Habitat consists of ponds, upland forest and prairies, stream banks, sinkhole ponds, pastures and roadsides.  

HOW TO EAT:

This plant is entirely edible, raw or cooked. Great for salads, smoothies and juices. Can be used for any dish where taste is preferred.

BENEFITS:

Dandelions are packed with vitamins and minerals.  

FYI: 

There is a plant called a "false dandelion" that is actually a flat weed. It has yellow flowers attached to it but it sits flat on the grown attached to what is obviously a weed, unlike the long stem of an actual dandelion.