365Caws is now in its 14th year of publication, and was originally intended to end after 365 days. It has sometimes been difficult for me to find new material, particularly during the winter months, but now as I enter my own twilight years, I cannot guarantee that I will be able to provide daily posts. It is my hope that along the way I may have inspired someone to a greater curiosity about the natural world. If so, I can rest, content in the knowledge that my work here has been done.
Thursday, May 16, 2019
Swamp Gooseberry, Ribes Lacustre
Day 215: Field guides sometimes refer to the edibility of specific plants. Some may even describe how certain parts of a plant were prepared by indigenous populations. An important thing to bear in mind is that the term "edible" does not necessarily equate with "tasty," a fact to which your correspondent will most strongly attest in the case of Ribes lacustre, also known as Black Gooseberry or Swamp Gooseberry. This thorny member of the currant family produces a small, round black berry lacking in any gastronomic appeal. While not specifically unpleasant, its insipid taste and somewhat dry texture do not recommend it to the palate. Despite its gustatory failings, it is often listed as "edible." Yes, and so are organically-produced paper products, although they're better suited to use under your breakfast fare than in it.
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