The Hardiness Zones map is a temperature system designed by the USDA to aid farmers.  While it cannot predict all outcomes, it provides a general idea as to what plants are most likely to grow and thrive in a particular region.  The entire map is made up of 13 separate zones covering all the United States (including Puerto Rico, Hawaii and Alaska).   

A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants.

Know What You are Allergic to before Heading out to the Woods! 

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.  Both durable & inexpensive. 

PLANT FAMILY:

Nelumbonaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Yellow Lotus, Nelumbo lutea, Duck acorn, Water nut

SEASON/GROWTH PERIOD: 

July - September 

HABITAT:

Large ponds and lakes.

HOW TO EAT:

The roots of this plant are edible. They can be eaten raw, mixed and stir fried and even stuffed. 

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include cancer fighting agents, reduces blood sugar, aids in the breakdown of fat, heart protection and anti-inflammation. Other benefits include brain, liver and skin support. 

FYI: 

This plant is often used in gardens because it looks really good! 

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/GROWTH PERIOD: 

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/GROWTH PERIOD: 

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:

Elaeagnaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Elaeagnus umbellata, Japanese silverberry, umbellata oleaster, autumn olive, autumn elaeagnus, spreading oleaster

SEASON/GROWTH PERIOD: 

Late spring to early summer

HABITAT:

Open woodlands, fields and grasslands. 

HOW TO EAT:

This fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. 

BENEFITS:

Decreases risk of heart disease, stomach, lung and prostate cancers. Lowers bad cholesterol. 

FYI: 

Despite what some may think, this shrub is not considered an invasive species. 

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:

Berberidaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Berberis

SEASON(S)

Year-Round

HABITAT:

While this plant can grow in many places, you will often run into them in dry locations with sufficient shade. Temperature requirements vary as they are found in zones from 4-8.

HOW TO EAT:

The berries and seeds can be eaten raw or as an ingredient such as jam or other mixes.  

BENEFITS:

Counters diarrhea, appetite improvement, reduces fever, relieves upset stomach, lowers bad cholesterol and boosts energy.

FYI: 

Cattle grazing is great for controlling the spread of barberries, however, at the same time the manure promotes the spread.

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/GROWTH PERIOD: 

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 earbs 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. 

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:

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/GROWTH PERIOD: 

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. 

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.  Both durable & inexpensive. 

PLANT FAMILY:

Liliaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Clintonia borealis 

SEASON(S)

Late Spring to Early Summer

HABITAT:

Blueheads can be found in sub-alpine meadows, birch-fir woods, damp conditions, coniferous woods and bogs.  

HOW TO EAT:

DO NOT EAT THE FRUIT. The leaves, however, can be consumed in raw form (when young), otherwise they should be cooked (prior to unfurling).  They're great for salads and many other recipe ingredients (you can pair according to your taste). A quick taste of the young leaf will help guide you on how you may wish to use them.

BENEFITS:

Good source of food for wildlife.

FYI: 

The berries are heavily consumed by chipmunks and birds.

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:

Rosaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Myrica gale, sweet willow, Dutch myrtle, and sweetgale. 

SEASON/GROWTH PERIOD: 

March to May

HABITAT:

Habitats are pond shores and bogs. 

HOW TO EAT:

This plant can be used to add flavor to soups, salads and stews. The leaves and fruits can be consumed as they are or dried. 

BENEFITS:

Bog-myrtle can be used to aid liver programs, fever, stomach pain and bronchial ailments. 

FYI: 

The scent from the foliage can be used as an insect repellant. 

PLANT FAMILY:

Elaeagnaceae (Shrub) 

OTHER NAMES:

Shepherdia, Bullberry, Shepherdia argentea

SEASON(S)

They bloom in April while the walled fruit ripens in September.

HABITAT:

Habitats include ravines, banks and prairies.

HOW TO EAT:

They can be consumed fresh or dried. They have a very tart, however, cooled off they become sweeter. They are good for jams, jellies and sauces.  

BENEFITS:

Used for treating tuberculosis, sours, cuts, swelling, constipation, arthritis and venereal diseases.

FYI: 

The Native Americans used Buffaloberry to treat a range of ailments.

PLANT FAMILY:

Cornaceae (Dogwood)

OTHER NAMES:

Cornus canadensis, Bunchberry Dogwood, Canadian Bunchberry

SEASON/GROWTH PERIOD: 

May to September 

HABITAT:

Damp openings, cedar swamps, coniferous, mixed woods and thickets. 

HOW TO EAT:

When the fruit matures it can be eaten raw or cooked. Best as an ingredient, as the super mild flavor doesn’t make for a great snack. Some people use to make tea, as well as for baking pies, puddings and other deserts. 

BENEFITS:

This plant has analgesic and febrifuge properties and helps with fevers, coughs, kidney and lung disease. 

FYI: 

In tea form bunchberry can be used as an eye wash. 

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/GROWTH PERIOD: 

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/GROWTH PERIOD: 

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 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. 

PLANT FAMILY:

Caryophyllaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Cerastium arvense

SEASON(S)

April to August  

HABITAT:

Habitat usually is open and grassy, coastal or mountains.

HOW TO EAT:

This plant can be eaten raw (when young) or cooked. Chickenweed is great for salads and as a seasoner for meats and other food items.

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include support for joint pain, wounds, skin ulcers, lung disease, stomach and bowel issues.  

FYI: 

Can be found in most states throughout North America.

PLANT FAMILY:

Rosaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Prunus virginiana

SEASON/GROWTH PERIOD: 

April to July

HABITAT:

Habitats consists of roadsides, rocky bluffs, fence rows, moist woods, stream banks and prairie hillsides.  

HOW TO EAT:

Chokecherries can be eaten raw (do not eat leaves if they are wilted or the cherries if they are still too young, as they contain cyanide at those stages, however, cooking will rid plant of cyanide) or cooked. Many people use to make jellies or jams. Can also be used for juicing or salads. Please note that the fruit is very bitter. 

BENEFITS:

Chokecherries are loaded with disease fighting antioxidants, anthocyanins, flavonoids and proanthocyanins. This helps to fight against cancers, urinary tract issues and allergies. 

FYI: 

The name comes from the fact they are so bitter, and thus catch people off guard leading to choking. 

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/GROWTH PERIOD: 

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:

Asclepiadaceae 

OTHER NAMES:

Asclepias syriaca, Asclepias intermedia, Asclepias kansana, Asclepias syriaca. 

SEASON(S)

June to August

HABITAT:

Habitats include old fields, pastures, croplands, ditches, roadsides and sometimes in prairies throughout the mid-west.  

HOW TO EAT:

DO NOT EAT RAW (Milkweed is poisonous raw). When cooked, you can practically eat the entire plant, of which includes the seed pods, leaves and young shoots. There are a number of ways to prepare and eat, and like with anything else, you will learn what works best for you. It's recommended to blanch in salted water before cooking to make more tender. Beyond that you can cook however you please. This includes boiling the pods (pods can be stuffed with cheese or whatever else you wish to add). You can also chop and add to a stir fry or salad, batter and deep fry or sauté.   

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include treatment for dysentery by chewing the roots, and the sap was used for wart removal by indigenous tribes.  

FYI: 

Milkweed was used during slavery time to treat swelling, rashes, coughs, fevers and asthma.

PLANT FAMILY:

Caprifoliaceae

OTHER NAMES:

Vaccinium Subgenus Oxycoccus, American Cranberry Bush, Highbush Cranberry, American Cranberrybush Viburnum, Cranberry Viburnum.

SEASON/GROWTH PERIOD: 

May to July

HABITAT:

Habitat includes slopes, thickets, rocky shores and cool woods. 

HOW TO EAT:

Cranberries can be eaten raw or cooked. Common uses include juicing, smoothing, baking ingredient and more. 

BENEFITS:

Health benefits include immune system support, cancer fighting agents, decrease in blood pressure and most known benefit is lowering one's risk for UTIs (Urinary Tract Infection). 

FYI: 

Cranberry trees make for great survival food during the winter, as it remains above the snow and becomes even sweeter when frozen. 

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.

A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants.

Know What You are Allergic to before Heading out to the Woods!