Barberry
Mahonia aquifolium
Summary
Common in parks and gardens, Mahonia aquifolium, or Oregon grape, is an evergreen shrub with holly-like leaves. Its small yellow flowers bloom in early spring, followed by clusters of dark blue berries that ripen from summer to autumn. The berries are tart and can be used in jams or sweetened dishes.
Edibililty & Uses
While the berries are edible, they are quite tart and some may prefer adding sugar. Don’t let this put you off, they’re really tasty!
However, caution is advised as handling the plant may cause skin irritation.
Parts Used
Only the berries are used by the forager, and these need to be harvested when the berry looks dark blue/purple or even black. They will have a white matting to them.
When to forage?
Flowers can be found commonly in early to mid-spring. The berries ripen from summer to autumn. The berries are best harvested when they are dark and have a white matte like coating.
Note that whilst these times are standard, flowers and berries can be found throughout the year!
Where to forage?
Mainly found in gardens and parks throughout the UK, probably because of its evergreen foliage and stiking displays of hanging yellow flowers.