One of my favorite wild edibles, Hogweed is abundant, easy to identify and extreamly tasty. Precautions are aviable though.
Although this plant is highly recommended, caution MUST be taken when harvesting. Hogweed contains a phototoxic sap which can cause reactions to the skin. It has been observed from other foragers and accounts that the strength of this sap can vary for plant to plant. Wear gloves if you’re unsure.
All parts of Hogweed can be used at various stages. The fresh shoots before they mature, the flower buds before they open into the distinct umbels of white flowers, the seeds – both green and dried, and the roots!
March – Oct
Young shoots can be found from late Feb right through to Sep. If you cut the plant back, it’ll keep producing more!
May – Oct
For the flower buds before they open.
Seeds are best when green or freshly dried on the plant and turn brown, however, you can find dried seeds clinging on to the plant skeletons right throughout the winter.
Hogweed can be found along roadsides, hedgerows, feild edges and pathways – it is so prolific that it’s other habitats are too many to name.
