Whilst Gorse flowers most prominently during the spring, those vivid yellow flowers can appear at any time of year, and in the gloomier months it makes for a cheery sight.
South facing blooms tend to be sweeter and with a more pronounced coconut smell.
Only the flowers are edible. These should be picked when they’re open and kept in a tub to retain their scent and flavour.
They can be mildly toxic, so it’s advisable to use moderation…just like anything else.
The pea like flowers are the only part to use. Pick them off from the bud sheath as these are pretty hairy.
Spring – particularly April and May are the best times to pick gorse flowers. This is when they’re at their tastiest, but they can be found at any time of year.
Gorse species like poor soil, so you’ll often find them on heathland and rocky, nitrogen poor soil. They are common throughout Britain.
