Edible Wild Blossoms

Redbud Blossoms

Redbud Blossoms

With all the health advice out there, how come no one has told us we need to eat more flowers? I think nibbling on the sweet blossoms of spring has to be good for the mind & body.

What is the color of a Redbud’s flowers- fuchsia – magenta? I’m astounded by it each spring, with the bright blossoms calling to me from sunny hillsides. Enjoy these mild beauties on salads or as a garnish to any meal.

 

 

Madrone Blossoms

Madrone Blossoms

The Madrone trees are happy from the winter rain and the flowers abundant this year. Taste their sweet flavor raw or steep in 70 proof alcohol for a local cocktail.

 

 

 

Manzanita blossoms are ready the earliest, and the sweetest of the edible flowers. I gather for making jam and adding to salads. According to a Maidu friend of mine, the blossoms were eaten every year to help prevent poison oak. If we need an excuse to start enjoying them, I think that’s it.

Manzanita Blossoms

Manzanita Blossoms