Autumn Edibles in Western Massachusetts
P h o t o s B y A r i a n n a A l e x s a n d r a C o l l i n s
TOP 10
Autumn Edibles in Western Massachusetts
Wild edible enthusiast Arianna Alexsandra Collins ’ top picks of native , invasive , or naturalized local flora to consider for foraging fun .
Goldenrod Flowers
Type : Native Uses : Add raw to salads or make tea . Known for anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate seasonal allergies and upper respiratory congestion . Despite common myths , goldenrod is unlikely to cause allergies as its pollen is not airborne .
Autumn Olive Berries
Type : Invasive Uses : Best consumed raw after the first frost . Excellent for adding to pancakes , baked goods , and smoothies , and they are high in the antioxidant lycopene .
Mugwort Leaves
Type : Naturalized Uses : Even when going to seed , mugwort leaves can be chopped and used to flavor salads . Mugwort has traditional uses in cooking and herbal medicine .
Staghorn Sumac Berries
Type : Native Uses : Can be used to make a refreshing sun tea . Note : Avoid if allergic to cashews , as sumac belongs to the same family .
Nannyberries
Type : Native Uses : The drupes are edible by sucking the pulp off the stone . They are similar to wild raisins and can be used in various recipes .
Eastern Hemlock Needles
Type : Native Uses : The needles can be steeped to make a vitamin C-rich tea year-round . Important : This is a tree , not to be confused with the toxic herbaceous poison hemlock .
Eastern White Pine Needles
Type : Native Uses : Gather and steep the needles to make a vitamin C-rich tea any time of the year . It ’ s a traditional remedy for scurvy and provides a significant boost of vitamins .
Chicken-of-the-Woods Mushrooms
Type : Native Uses : These mushrooms are excellent when cooked . They should never be eaten raw and are known for their meaty texture and rich flavor .
Hen-of-the-Woods Mushrooms
Type : Native Uses : Like Chicken-of-the-Woods , these mushrooms should be cooked before consumption . They are prized for their flavor and health benefits .
Cranberries
Type : Native Uses : Cranberries can be eaten raw or cooked . They are a versatile ingredient in various dishes , known for their tartness and health benefits .
78 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE Fall 2024