There’s an increasing inclination to utilize more native species in home landscaping, thanks to recent books like Doug Tallamy’s Bringing Nature Home, which extol the virtues of native plants over exotic ornamentals for attracting and sustaining beneficial insects.  Yet, for some people, this alone may be insufficient motivation to “go native”.  Perhaps knowing that many native species are edible by people too will provide the additional incentive you need to add native species to your yard.  Juneberries (Amelanchier spp.), for example, are equally edible by songbirds and people.   The taste of the ripe fruit is like a cross between cherries and almonds.  This presentation features at least three dozen species of native edible wild plants suitable for your home landscape, or nibbling on as you encounter them in other locales.  Keys to the identification of each species are provided, along with edible portions, seasons of availability and preparation methods, along with guidelines for safe and environmentally responsible foraging.  Following the lecture, sample some foraged goodies made from edible native species.

This program, sponsored by The New England Wild Flower Society, takes place Thursday, April 8, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm, and features Russ Cohen, who has spoken to The Garden Club of the Back Bay members in past seasons.  We especially remember his disclosure that phragmites are edible (take note, Parks Department!).  The lecture will cost $22 for NEWFS members, and $26 for nonmembers.  You may register on line at www.newfs.org.