Elderberries and Pawpaws - Foraging Late Summer Fruit

Late summer is a magical time for foragers, as the bounty of wild fruits reaches its peak. Two of my favorites to forage during this time are elderberries and pawpaws. Not only are they delicious, but they also come packed with a host of benefits that make the foraging experience all the more rewarding.

Elderberries: An Immune-Boosting Delight

Elderberries (Sambucus canadensis) are a fantastic find for any forager. These small, dark purple berries grow in umbels or umbrella-shaped clusters and are native to Missouri. They are typically found along back roads where traffic is light, making them relatively easy to forage without too much competition.

Medicinal and Edible Uses:

- Immune Support: Elderberries are renowned for their immune-boosting properties. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which can help ward off colds and flu.

- Edible Delights: Besides their medicinal uses, elderberries are simply delicious. They can be made into syrups, jams, wines, and even baked goods. Elderberry syrup is a popular remedy for its health benefits, while elderberry jam adds a unique flavor to your morning toast.

Identification Tips:

- Fruit: Look for clusters of small berries that turn a deep, almost black-purple when ripe.

- Leaves: The compound leaves grow in an odd-pinnate arrangement, meaning they have leaflets on either side of the petiole (stem) and one at the end. The leaf margins are toothed.

- Habitat: Elderberries thrive in areas with good sunlight and moist soil, often found along roadsides and open fields.

Pawpaws: The Tropical Taste of Missouri

Pawpaws (Asimina triloba) are another late summer treasure. These fruits have a creamy, custard-like texture and a flavor reminiscent of bananas and mangoes. They are often found in areas near water, such as creek and river bottoms.

Identification Tips:

• Leaves: Pawpaw trees have large, almost tropical-looking leaves. The leaves of younger saplings, which are more accessible, have the distinct smell of an overripe bell pepper when crushed. These leaves can also act as a nifty mosquito repellent in a pinch.

• Fruit: Look up to find the larger trees with fruit hanging under the leaves, but also keep an eye on the ground for freshly fallen fruit. Pawpaws are best harvested when they are soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma.

• Harvesting Tip: A light shake of the tree can help bring ripe fruit down, but be gentle to avoid damaging the tree and knocking down unripe fruit.

Benefits and Uses:

• Nutritional Value: Pawpaws are rich in vitamins A and C, magnesium, iron, and manganese. They are also a good source of antioxidants.

• Culinary Uses: Enjoy pawpaws fresh, or use them in recipes like pawpaw bread, pudding, or smoothies. Their creamy texture makes them a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

Foraging elderberries and pawpaws is not just about gathering food; it's about connecting with nature and understanding the environment around us. Always forage responsibly, ensuring that you leave enough for wildlife and future growth. Enjoy the hunt, and savor the flavors of these wonderful late summer fruits!

Happy foraging, and remember to respect the natural world as you explore its delicious offerings.

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