Berry Id - Ask Extension
Hi! I pass this berry often and was wondering if you could tell me if it is edible? I am just curious! Also, I’m interested in learning to forage fo...
Knowledgebase
Berry Id #601317
Asked October 07, 2019, 3:41 PM EDT
Hi! I pass this berry often and was wondering if you could tell me if it is edible? I am just curious! Also, I’m interested in learning to forage for wild berries and plants and especially mushrooms. Are there any programs that you know that teach this locally? I live in Hillsboro. Thanks!
ipdate- I researched and think it might be hawthorn. Can I make jam or jelly out of it?
ipdate- I researched and think it might be hawthorn. Can I make jam or jelly out of it?
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi--you're right--this looks like common hawthorn Crataegus monogyna. And yes, you can use the berries or "haws" to make jellies and wine. It's considered a delicacy in the UK. To learn more about foraging in our neck of the wood, here are some great references:
If you are on Face Book, you can join one of the PNW foraging groups (search for "PNW foraging) and the Oregon Mycological Society (https://www.wildmushrooms.org/) for practical information and identification help.
Books:
Pacific Northwest Foraging: 120 Wild and Flavorful Edibles from Alaska Blueberries to Wild Hazelnuts (Regional Foraging Series)
Pacific Northwest Foraging: 120 Wild and Flavorful Edibles from Alaska Blueberries to Wild Hazelnuts (Regional Foraging Series)
Foraging Washington: Finding, Identifying, and Preparing Edible Wild Foods (Foraging Series)
