Edible Wild Plants on the Oregon Coast

Oregon Grapes

• The Oregon grape is the state flower of Oregon and is found throughout the western forest and coastal area. Despite its name, the Oregon grape is not a grape vine but a low-lying evergreen shrub that produces small, dark blue berries that ripen mid to late summer. The leaves of the plant are a dark green during summer and turn a deep red in the cold of the winter. The berries are edible but bitter in taste; because of their bitter taste they are most commonly found in syrups and jams.

Red Huckleberry

• Red huckleberries are found across the Pacific Northwest. The plant produces oval-shaped green leaves and large reddish-purple berries. The red huckleberry plant grows up to 6 feet in height in prime conditions, though is more commonly found at heights of 4 or 5 feet. The berries, which are edible and slightly sweet, ripen in late summer.

Wild Strawberry

• Wild strawberries are found along the central and coastal regions of Oregon. The wild strawberry is a low lying plant that produces bright green leaves and small red berries. The leaves of the plant are circular in shape with small white hairs that grow on the underside. The berries are small and bright red in color with dark brown seeds on the exterior when ripe. They ripen during mid to late summer.

Licorice Fern

• Sweet Root or Licorice Fern is a low-lying evergreen fern common on the Oregon coast. The fern acquires its name because its stalks are licorice flavored. The leaves of the plant should be stripped away from the stem before consumption. Rather than eating quickly, chew on the stalks for flavor before swallowing.