Central methodist Church, Baker St, Hucknall, Nottingham NG15 7AS.
15th July 2025
We recently held a vibrant and inspiring Forage for Colours talk in Hucknall, inviting the community to explore the edible and medicinal plants and fungi that bring colour and vitality to our wild spaces.
From deep reds to bright yellows, we explored a spectrum of species and their uses throughout history, folklore, and the kitchen. Attendees learned about identifying and using bramble (blackberries), chickweed, and common hogweed, as well as more unusual wild edibles like fat hen, mahonia (Oregon grape), and scarlet elfcup mushrooms.
We also looked at safe foraging and preparation methods for edible mushrooms such as jelly ear, St George’s mushroom, velvet shank, and members of the Russula family including the charcoal burner. For tree lovers, we discussed silver birch, sycamore, and the medicinal properties of the birch polypore.
The talk connected foraging with cultural stories and seasonal traditions, from hawthorn in May Day rituals to the protective lore of rowan trees and the cheerful symbolism of dandelions and gorse.
We even indulged in discussions about traditional baking with poppy seeds and how wild ingredients like hogweed seeds, blackberries, and dandelion flowers can bring flavour and function to your kitchen.
We samples rowan jam and rowan syrup, poppy seed cake and gorse wine and gorse cordial.
If you’re keen to learn more about edible wild plants, medicinal mushrooms, and how to safely enjoy nature’s hidden larder, check out our upcoming courses or browse our plant profiles for more information.
