Southern California Food Plants

Best serving as an introduction to the wild/non domesticated (or domesticated yet feral) edible plant life of SoCal, readers will find Southern California Food Plants to be a much needed addition to a subject that continues to grow in interest and pertinence. Inhabitants of the greater Los Angeles to San Diego metro areas, then east to Palm Springs/the California state line, whom take outer urban excursions will surely benefit most from this guide. Essentially: throw this booklet into a backpack or glove box, head for the hills, and discover what wild plants can be consumed during times of leisure or necessity.Covering 50 wild southern California food plants.Edible uses are fully explored: preparation & utilization.Range & habitat are discussed assisting in identification.County by county maps & nearly 100 color photographs.Both common & scientific names.Concise synopsis of medicinal uses.Cautions list look-alike plants & toxicity concerns.Special notes include useful extras & important tidbits.

"Native Edibles - A Food Plant Guide for Southern California Lawns and Gardens" supports the notion that gardening is one of the best ways we can address some of today's most pressing problems. Our health, as well as the health of our environment and economy is dependent upon support for individuals and businesses that promote the use of native plants e.g. gardeners, nurseries, homeowners, landscapers, small scale farmers, restaurateurs, and individuals and families utilizing the California Homemade Food Act. "Native Edibles" takes a look at some of the most important food and drink plants known to have existed when the first Californians inhabited the land. A brief literature review is followed by plant profiles. Profiles include an image and description of a particular native plant species, as well as information about each plant's growth patterns, edibility rating, nutritional value, culinary uses, and environmental benefits.The study of native edible plants and their potential positive impact on the health of our environment (including wildlife), the economy, and us humans is not only timely, but critical.Native edibles are the plants of the future!

Forty-one (41) Full Color Images! (Black and White Version also available) "Native Edibles" takes a look at some of the most important food and drink plants known to have existed when the first Californians inhabited the land. A brief literature review is followed by plant profiles. Profiles include an image and description of a particular native plant species, as well as information about each plant's growth patterns, edibility rating, nutritional value, culinary uses, and environmental benefits. The study of native edible plants and their potential positive impact on the health of our environment (including wildlife), the economy, and us humans is not only timely, but critical. Native edibles are the plants of the future!

Both American Indians and the pioneers knew and used many different plant species-for food, fibers, medicine, tools, and other purposes. This unique book is a guide to identifying more than 220 such plants. But it goes much further-it also tells the reader how to prepare, cook, and otherwise use them. Some of the dishes for which recipes are given have won culinary prizes. All have been tested not only by the author but also by her students and by journalists-who have been uniformity surprised and impressed. The plants are organized by habitat communities. Description, photos, drawings, and distribution information are given. Where poisonous look-alikes exist, they too are illustrated. Much fascinating information about Indian uses of native and introduced species is included. The author emphasizes conservation considerations; the aim of the book is to educate the reader about intriguing uses of the plants, and to tell how to gather and use the most palatable and abundant species without damaging the environment.

Rundel introduces readers to the plant communities of the Southern California coastal areas and foothills, including color photos of 250 species and additional color habitat photos.

From acacia to wild grape, Foraging California guides the reader to the edible wild foods and healthful herbs of the Golden State. Helpfully organized by plant families, with detailed information on locations, the book is an authoritative guide for nature lovers, outdoorsmen, and gastronomes.

This book is a primer for those wanting to grow their own food while maintaining a consciousness of the water security issues in Southern California. After having spent a number of years looking for plants that provide food without needing extra water (or excessive water) in Southern California I decided that there needs to be one place to look for others to find the same information I have gathered over the years. After searching for some time, I have not been able to find a comprehensive document like this one that lists and describes culinary plants with the Mediterranean Climate and its low annual precipitation in mind. Be warned, this is not a large book, it is only 44 pages and only includes about 34 plants.

Your Field Guide to Foraging for Wild Edibles: What, Where, and When to Look Foraging for food is an engaging and beneficial pastime that anyone can enjoy. It inspires connections to the land and can help to improve your health. Plus, many target plants for foragers are non-native, so the activity can support—if not improve—biological diversity and ecological well-being. Foraging Southern California introduces you to plentiful and delicious foods, from berries and fruits to roots, seeds, and even tasty aquatic options, like kelp and crayfish. Expert forager Douglas Kent shares his decades of experience in this handy guide that’s perfect for beginners and intermediates. Learn what to look for, as well as when and where to look. Key identification features, written instructions, and full-color photographs help you to comfortably and confidently know that you’re harvesting the right species. A compare section provides information on dangerous look-alikes, helping to ensure your foraging success and personal health. The “Top 10 Edibles” section provides a starting point for beginners, and species throughout the book are organized by harvestable quality, which quickly leads to the relevant information for your own foraging needs. Foraging must be done with knowledge and consideration. Foraging Southern California provides information that can benefit you and the environment. Grab the book, get outside, and enjoy nature’s bounty.