Hobbies And Interests
The Cattail
The roots, stems, and flowers are all edible in this quite common marsh flower. One website calls the cattail a "wild food pantry all by itself." In the early part of the year the plant protrudes new shoots which taste like a pickle. The core can be pulled from the root and eaten raw. This portion tastes like a cucumber and boiled resembles an asparagus. Who knew this marshy plant favored as a hiding ground by herons and egrets could provide such nutrition.
The Wood Sorrel
The famous shamrock gives good luck if found with four leaves. It can also be consumed. It is known commonly in Illinois as the wood sorrel and has a slight lemony flavor according to Lloyd T. Rich and make a great addition to a salad. What a great way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Be careful about over harvesting them as they may not return.
Water Lily
The roots, flowers, and seeds of the water lily are all edible. The flowers can be eaten with salads and the rootstock tubers can be collected and prepared like a potato. This will take some effort as the tubers are found two to three feet underwater in marshy areas. One website even suggests a water lily popcorn. "Place the dried seeds in a popcorn popper. Cover the machine so the small seeds do not pop from the pan. The seeds do not pop open all the way, but resemble popcorn. Add salt and butter." Be careful about harvesting if the water lilies are threatened or endangered in your area.
Bush Honeysuckle
Bush Honeysuckle is a deciduous shrubs, and the flowers, berries, and leaves are all edible. The leaves and flowers make tea which has medicinal qualities. The tea can help cure fevers, flues, and laryngitis. The fruit is edible as well and can be used to make a jelly.
Peppergrass
The leaves and fruit of peppergrass are safe to consume. Another great item to add to a salad or a soup, peppergrass is known as poor-man's-pepper due to its spicy, pepper-like aspect.