Allow me to introduce the heath wax cap mushroom (Hygrocybe laeta). These mushrooms are found in heathland and moorland habitats in all year round and they’re definitely worth keeping an eye out for. The heath wax cap mushroom has a distinctive appearance, with a bright yellow or orange to brown cap that has a waxyContinue reading “Heath Waxcap”
Category Archives: Spring
Crocus
Foragers, have you met the crocus (Crocus sativus)? This gorgeous flower not only adds beauty to gardens and meadows, but it also has a long history of culinary and medicinal uses. The most famous use of crocus is in the production of saffron, which comes from the plant’s stigma. Saffron has been used in cookingContinue reading “Crocus”
Coltsfoot
Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) is a versatile plant with many medicinal and general uses. Its leaves and flowers have been used for centuries to treat respiratory ailments, such as coughs and bronchitis, due to its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. Coltsfoot can also soothe sore throats and reduce fever. Aside from its medicinal benefits, coltsfoot leaves andContinue reading “Coltsfoot”
False Turkey Tail
This has to be one of of the most common mushrooms I find all year round. A real stunner, however, nowhere near as highly prized as a ‘true’ Turkey Tail mushroom. False turkey tail is not poisonous, however, it’s not advised to eat by most sources. Mainly due to the fact that it’s wafer thinContinue reading “False Turkey Tail”
Pignut
One of nature’s many buried treasures! An absolute wonderful spring treat, well worth the dig! Pignuts are a common find once you know what your looking for. They are likely to be found in areas that have not been disturbed for some years as they take a few years to grow and produce a tuber.Continue reading “Pignut”
Scarlet Elf Cup, Orange Variant
These mushrooms are such a beautiful find. One of the first early signs of more colour coming back into the natural world around us, towards the end of the winter months. This orange variant is an extremely rare find in the UK. I was shocked to find these in a spot where I’ve been findingContinue reading “Scarlet Elf Cup, Orange Variant”
Wood Anemone
If you stumble across this sign of early spring beauty, then you’ll most likely find yourself in a very rare and special habitat. They like to establish themselves in ancient woodlands in particular. Wood anemone is NOT EDIBLE ⚠️ Although there is a history of medical use, including chewing of the root to clear awayContinue reading “Wood Anemone”
Lesser Celandine
A glorious carpet of sunshine, these beautiful flowers light up the woodland floor in the early spring. Before they flower the young leaves can be eaten in a salad and are loaded with vitamin C. The roots are the real prize, but must be cooked before consuming. They have traditionally been used to help aidContinue reading “Lesser Celandine”
Wild Carrot
🥕I love a good carrot, many of the carrots that we have access to in the supermarkets are very bland in comparison to the real deal. The wild carrot root has such a strong carrot smell and taste.It is best to harvest the roots in their first year of growth as they are less fibrous.Continue reading “Wild Carrot”
Dandelion Roots
Looking for something to improve your digestive system and help balance your blood sugar levels? Want that something to be free? Then look no further than your garden! Dandelion roots are best to harvest in the spring and autumn when they’re in their early stage of growth, before the roots have sent lots of theirContinue reading “Dandelion Roots”