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Vancouver Island & British Columbia

What grows here?
When should you look?

Choose a forageable item and a month. The map highlights its recorded ecosystem zones, while the calendar shows when to look.

Choose a learning tool, not a picking location.

Plant highlights show recorded ecosystem associations. Mushrooms and seaweeds may have habitat notes without coloured growing zones; these maps do not locate a confirmed patch. For historical fires and mushroom scouting, open Mushroom Maps.

Loading official B.C. ecosystem zones…

Growing-zone colours & map sources

Zone boundaries: Province of British Columbia, BEC Map. Colours chosen by Forageberry. Coastline is generalized for regional planning.

Official BEC dataset ↗ · Official zone maps ↗ · Shoreline data ↗

Your seasonal guide

Vancouver Island

B.C.’s biogeoclimatic zones describe climate and vegetation. Berry-coloured areas match the selected plant’s recorded ecosystems and planning season. They do not establish a plant’s presence at every location.

Months are approximate planning windows, not live ripeness reports. Elevation, rainfall and yearly weather can shift the season.

The B.C. foraging catalogue

183 entries · 109 with ecosystem records · 51 with seasonal windows

Select an item to see its photograph beside the map. Species Photo Credits

Forageable item & habitatTypical timingGrowing zones & references
Alaska blueberry
Vaccinium alaskaense

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Bearberry
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Identification caution

Confirm the exact species before collecting. The fruit is reported edible, but this does not establish that other plant parts or similarly named species are edible.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Bitter cherry
Prunus emarginata

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Specialist guidance required

Specialist reference only. Do not eat the seeds or leaves: the USDA guide identifies hydrogen cyanide toxicity concentrated in these parts, which can cause severe poisoning. This page does not provide a safe preparation protocol.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Black hawthorn
Crataegus douglasii

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

BG, CDF, CWH, ICH, IDF, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Black huckleberry
Vaccinium membranaceum

Dry to moist montane and subalpine forest and openings. Widely recorded in B.C.; local habitat and elevation matter more than the broad provincial label.

Aug, Sep

Identification required

Usually August–September; high sites ripen later.

AT, BWBS, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Blue elderberry
Sambucus cerulea

Moist or moderately moist meadows, shrublands, disturbed ground and open woodland at low to montane elevations, especially southern B.C.

Season not yet verified

Specialist preparation required

Specialist reference: use only the appropriate fruit with expert preparation guidance; other plant parts and seeds may be harmful.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Bog cranberry
Vaccinium oxycoccos

Lowland and montane bogs across B.C.; associated with wet, nutrient-poor peatland.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Bunchberry
Cornus canadensis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Identification caution

Confirm the exact species before collecting. The fruit is reported edible, but this does not establish that other plant parts or similarly named species are edible.

AT, BAFA, BWBS, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Cascade bilberry
Vaccinium deliciosum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

AT, CMA, CWH, ESSF, IMA, MH, SWB
Species reference ↗
Cascade oregon grape
Berberis nervosa

Moderately moist to dry slopes and open woodland, particularly southwestern B.C.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Chokecherry
Prunus virginiana

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

AT, BG, BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Clasping twisted-stalk
Streptopus amplexifolius

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Specialist identification required

Can be confused with poisonous Veratrum species, especially when collecting shoots. Expert identification is essential. Large quantities may have a laxative effect.

AT, BAFA, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Cloudberry
Rubus chamaemorus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, MS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Coastal black gooseberry
Ribes divaricatum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

CDF, CWH
Species reference ↗
Common juniper
Juniperus communis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Specialist guidance required

Juniper “berries” are fleshy seed cones. Confirm the exact species and intended use with a qualified expert. Juniper ingestion can cause stomach upset, diarrhoea and kidney problems; this profile does not establish a safe quantity.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Crowberry
Empetrum nigrum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

AT, BWBS, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Drops of gold
Prosartes hookeri

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Food-use review incomplete

Historical food-use reports do not establish a safe preparation or serving quantity here. Confirm the exact species, food part and preparation with a qualified regional expert before considering consumption.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Dwarf blueberry
Vaccinium caespitosum

Forests, bogs, meadows, rocky ridges and tundra from low elevations to alpine areas across B.C.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Evergreen huckleberry
Vaccinium ovatum

Open, dry to moist lowland and montane forest. Frequent in southwestern B.C.; the botanical account also records rare occurrence near Prince Rupert.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, MH, SBS
Species reference ↗
False lily-of-the-valley
Maianthemum dilatatum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Food-use review incomplete

Historical food-use reports do not establish a safe preparation or serving quantity here. Confirm the exact species, food part and preparation with a qualified regional expert before considering consumption.

BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
False solomon's seal
Maianthemum racemosum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

AT, BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Five-leaved bramble
Rubus pedatus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

AT, BAFA, BWBS, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Himalayan blackberry
Rubus armeniacus

Lowland fencerows, ditches, disturbed edges and moist sites, especially in southwestern B.C. A visible roadside patch is not necessarily a suitable food-collecting site.

Aug, Sep

Identification required

Typically August–September on the coast.

CDF, CWH, ICH
Species reference ↗
Lingonberry / lowbush cranberry
Vaccinium vitis-idaea

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

BAFA, BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, MH, MS, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Nootka rose hips
Rosa nutkana

Forest edges, thickets, streambanks, river terraces and shore margins. Widely recorded in much of southern and central B.C.

Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb

Identification required

Ripe hips from late September; may persist through winter. Persistence does not guarantee quality.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Northern black currant
Ribes hudsonianum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

BG, BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Northern gooseberry
Ribes oxyacanthoides

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Oregon grape
Berberis aquifolium

Moderately moist to dry woodland, from lowland to montane elevations, especially southern B.C.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Osoberry
Oemleria cerasiformis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Specialist guidance required

Use only positively identified, fully ripe fruit flesh. Do not eat or crush the pits: USDA NRCS identifies toxic cyanoglucosides in the stone. This page is not a preparation guide.

CDF, CWH
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Oval-leaved blueberry
Vaccinium ovalifolium

Moist forests and mountain openings.

Jul, Aug, Sep

Identification required

Broad late-summer planning window; check locally for ripeness.

BAFA, BWBS, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Pacific crabapple
Malus fusca

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Aug, Sep, Oct

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

CDF, CWH, ICH, SBS
Species reference ↗
Prickly currant
Ribes lacustre

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

AT, BG, BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Red elderberry
Sambucus racemosa

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Specialist preparation required

Do not eat red elderberries raw. Other plant parts contain toxins, and this page does not provide a verified safe preparation method. Seek qualified preparation guidance.

AT, BG, BWBS, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Red flowering currant
Ribes sanguineum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

CDF, CWH, IDF
Species reference ↗
Red huckleberry
Vaccinium parvifolium

Western B.C. forests, including shrubs rooted on decaying wood and old stumps. Recorded in dry to moist lowland and montane woodland.

Jun, Jul, Aug

Identification required

Broad planning window: late June–August.

CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Rocky mountain juniper
Juniperus scopulorum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Specialist guidance required

Juniper “berries” are fleshy seed cones. Confirm the exact species and intended use with a qualified expert. Juniper ingestion can cause stomach upset, diarrhoea and kidney problems; this profile does not establish a safe quantity.

AT, BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Salal
Gaultheria shallon

Lowland and montane forests, from dry sites to wetter woodland and bog margins. Common in western B.C.; much less common in the southeast.

Jul, Aug, Sep

Identification required

Typical coastal fruit season: late July–September.

CDF, CWH, ICH, IDF, MH
Species reference ↗
Salmonberry
Rubus spectabilis

Moist coastal forests, wet thickets, streambanks and swamp margins, from lowland to montane sites.

May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Identification required

June–July is a useful coastal starting point; some sites begin in May or extend into August.

CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Saskatoon
Amelanchier alnifolia

Open slopes and forest edges; especially Interior B.C.

Jun, Jul

Identification required

Typically late June–July in the Interior.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Soapberry
Shepherdia canadensis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Squashberry
Viburnum edule

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Starry false lily-of-the-valley
Maianthemum stellatum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Food-use review incomplete

Historical food-use reports do not establish a safe preparation or serving quantity here. Confirm the exact species, food part and preparation with a qualified regional expert before considering consumption.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Stink currant
Ribes bracteosum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Thimbleberry
Rubus parviflorus

Moist open woodland, clearings, thickets and stream margins. Recorded widely in southern B.C., including montane and subalpine settings.

Jul, Aug

Identification required

Usually July–August; timing varies with elevation.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Trailing blackberry
Rubus ursinus

Dry to moist open forest, clearings and thickets in the lowland and lower montane zones, especially southwestern B.C.

Jun, Jul, Aug

Identification required

Usually earlier than Himalayan blackberry; broad summer window.

BWBS, CDF, CWH, IDF, SBS
Species reference ↗
Virginia strawberry
Fragaria virginiana

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Wild black raspberry
Rubus leucodermis

Forest edges, openings and disturbed ground.

Jul, Aug

Identification required

July is a useful starting point; some sites extend into August.

CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, PP
Species reference ↗
Wild red raspberry
Rubus idaeus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

AT, BG, BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Woodland strawberry
Fragaria vesca

Sunny openings and woodland edges.

Jun, Jul

Identification required

Early summer; usually June–July at lower elevations.

AT, BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Amethyst deceiver
Laccaria amethysteo-occidentalis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Apricot jelly
Guepinia helvelloides

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Bear's head
Hericium abietis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Cascade chanterelle
Cantharellus cascadensis

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Jan, Feb, Mar, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Chicken of the woods
Laetiporus conifericola

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Club coral
Clavariadelphus truncatus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Crab brittlegill
Russula xerampelina var rubra

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Douglas-fir slippery jack
Suillus caerulescens

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Gem-studded puffball
Lycoperdon perlatum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Small immature Amanita mushrooms can resemble puffballs. Some Amanita species are deadly; never rely on a photograph or a single feature to establish edibility.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Glistening ink cap
Coprinellus micaceus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Ringed webcap
Cortinarius caperatus

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Aug, Sep, Oct

Specialist identification required

Cortinarius includes deadly species that can cause permanent kidney damage. Do not use a genus name, photograph or this profile to decide whether a mushroom is safe to eat.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Hedgehog mushroom
Hydnum repandum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Horse mushroom
Agaricus arvensis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Poisonous Amanita and poisonous Agaricus species must be ruled out by a qualified identifier. A resemblance to a shop mushroom does not establish safety.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Inky cap
Coprinopsis atramentaria

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Specialist identification required

Common inky cap can cause a serious reaction with alcohol, including alcohol consumed up to three days after the mushrooms were eaten. This profile is not a recommendation to eat it.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
King bolete
Boletus edulis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Aug, Sep, Oct

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Larch bolete
Suillus clintonianus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Lion's mane
Hericium erinaceus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Lobster mushroom
Hypomyces lactifluorum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Meadow mushroom
Agaricus campestris

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Poisonous Amanita and poisonous Agaricus species must be ruled out by a qualified identifier. A resemblance to a shop mushroom does not establish safety.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Morels
Morchella spp.

Forests and some previous-year burns; species and sites differ.

Mar, Apr, May, Jun

Expert mushroom identification required

Spring planning window, later at elevation. Expert identification and cooking required.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Orange peel fungus
Aleuria aurantia

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Oyster mushroom
Pleurotus ostreatus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Pacific golden chanterelle
Cantharellus formosus

Ground in conifer forests, associated with Douglas-fir, western hemlock and Sitka spruce. An association with those trees is habitat guidance, not a confirmed picking location.

Sep, Oct, Nov

Expert mushroom identification required

Autumn planning window; rain and first frost affect fruiting. Expert identification required.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Pear-shaped puffball
Lycoperdon pyriforme

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Expert mushroom identification required

Small immature Amanita mushrooms can resemble puffballs. Some Amanita species are deadly; never rely on a photograph or a single feature to establish edibility.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Rainbow chanterelle
Cantharellus roseocanus

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Rosy gomphidius
Gomphidius subroseus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Saffron milk cap
Lactarius deliciosus group

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Scaly hedgehog
Sarcodon imbricatus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Shaggy mane
Coprinus comatus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Short-stemmed russula
Russula brevipes

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Shrimp russula
Russula xerampelina

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Slimy spike cap
Gomphidius glutinosus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Spring king bolete
Boletus rex-veris

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Summer oyster mushroom
Pleurotus pulmonarius

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
The prince
Agaricus augustus

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Toothed jelly fungus
Pseudohydnum gelatinosum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Violet webcap
Cortinarius violaceus

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Washington hedgehog
Hydnum washingtonianum

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Cosmopolitan black morel
Morchella eohespera

Forest ground; the museum distinguishes this species from fire-associated morels.

Mar, Apr, May, Jun

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Western cauliflower mushroom
Sparassis radicata

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Western giant puffball
Calvatia booniana

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Small immature Amanita mushrooms can resemble puffballs. Some Amanita species are deadly; never rely on a photograph or a single feature to establish edibility.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Western matsutake / pine mushroom
Tricholoma murrillianum

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Winter chanterelle
Craterellus tubaeformis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Wood blewit
Lepista nuda

See the museum’s species-specific B.C. habitat account.

Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert identification is required. Read the museum’s look-alike and toxicity account before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Yellow swamp russula
Russula claroflava

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Zeller's bolete
Xerocomellus zelleri

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Expert mushroom identification required

Expert mushroom identification and appropriate cooking are required. Review the source’s look-alikes and cautions.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Beaked hazelnut
Corylus cornuta

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended food part with a regional expert. Timing varies by site.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Agoseris
Agoseris spp.

Open ground; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Asparagus
Asparagus officinalis

Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

BG, IDF, PP
Species reference ↗
Bedstraw
Galium spp.

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Bittercress
Cardamine spp.

Woodland; Open ground; Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Catnip
Nepeta cataria

Rocky or dry ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

IDF
Species reference ↗
Chickweed
Stellaria media

Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Chicory
Cichorium intybus

Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

BG, IDF, PP
Species reference ↗
Clover
Trifolium spp.

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Common orache
Atriplex patula

Open ground; Coastal habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

CDF, CWH
Species reference ↗
Common sweet clover
Melilotus officinalis

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Specialist reference: spoiled material can cause serious harm. Do not treat this entry as a preparation guide.

BG, BWBS, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Dandelion
Taraxacum officinale

Disturbed ground.

Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov

Identification required

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Devils club
Oplopanax horridus

Woodland; Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Dock
Rumex spp.

Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Fireweed
Epilobium spp.

Open ground; Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Fragrant water-lily
Nymphaea odorata

Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Invasive in B.C. Do not plant or spread it. Seek local invasive-species advice rather than treating removal as a foraging activity.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Safety reference ↗
Garden orache
Atriplex hortensis

Open ground; Coastal habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Goldenrod
Solidago spp.

Open ground; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Ground ivy
Glechoma hederacea

Woodland; Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

IDF
Species reference ↗
High mallow
Malva sylvestris

Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Lamb's quarter
Chenopodium album

Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

BG, BWBS, CDF, IDF, MS, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Miner’s lettuce
Claytonia perfoliata

Coastal bluffs and cool-season open ground.

Mar, Apr, May

Identification required

Typical spring window: March–May; dries out as weather warms.

BG, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Mountain sorrel
Oxyria digyna

Open ground; Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

AT, BAFA, BWBS, CMA, CWH, ESSF, IMA, MH, MS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Musk mallow
Malva moschata

Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Mustard
Brassicaceae

Open ground; Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Oxeye daisy
Leucanthemum vulgare

Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Mar, Apr, May

Identification required

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Pearly everlasting
Anaphalis margaritacea

Open ground; Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Peppergrass
Lepidium virginicum

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

BG, IDF, PP
Species reference ↗
Pickleweed
Salicornia spp.

Wet or moist sites.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, IDF, PP
Species reference ↗
Pigweed
Amaranthus spp.

Open ground; Wet or moist sites; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Pineapple-weed
Matricaria discoidea

Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

IDF
Species reference ↗
Plantain
Plantago spp.

Upland habitats; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Prickly-pear cactus
Opuntia spp.

Open ground; Rocky or dry ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, BWBS, IDF, PP
Species reference ↗
Quickweed
Galinsoga spp.

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Sea milkwort
Glaux maritima

Open ground; Wet or moist sites; Coastal habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Specialist food-use reference; check species, plant part and preparation with a qualified expert.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Self heal
Prunella vulgaris

Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

BG, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Sheep sorrel
Rumex acetosella

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Shepherd's-purse
Capsella bursa-pastoris

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

BG, IDF, PP
Species reference ↗
Siberian miner's lettuce
Claytonia sibirica

Woodland; Wet or moist sites.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

BAFA, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SWB
Species reference ↗
Silver orache
Atriplex argentea

Open ground; Coastal habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Sow thistle
Sonchus spp.

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Speedwell
Veronica spp.

Woodland; Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Stinging nettle
Urtica dioica

Moist, nutrient-rich ground and stream edges.

Mar, Apr, May

Identification required

Spring young growth; wear gloves and use appropriate preparation.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Stonecrop
Sedum spp.

Rocky or dry ground; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Stork's-bill
Erodium cicutarium

Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Strawberry-blite
Chenopodium capitatum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Sunflower
Helianthus spp.

Open ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Sweet gale
Myrica gale

Wet or moist sites.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Not a routine food herb. The source flags pregnancy-related risk; seek qualified advice.

BWBS, CDF, CWH, SBS
Species reference ↗
Violet
Viola spp.

Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, BG, BWBS, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Watercress
Nasturtium officinale

Wet or moist sites.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Wild bergamot
Monarda fistulosa

Open ground; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

BG, BWBS, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Wild mint
Mentha spp.

Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

IDF, PP
Species reference ↗
Woodsorrel
Oxalis spp.

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Yellowcress
Rorippa palustris

Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, PP, SBPS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Arrow-leaved balsamroot
Balsamorhiza sagittata

Rocky or dry ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use.

AT, BG, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP
Species reference ↗
Arrowhead
Sagittaria spp.

Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, BWBS, ICH, IDF, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Beargrass
Xerophyllum tenax

Woodland; Rocky or dry ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Specialist food-use reference; check species, plant part and preparation with a qualified expert.

AT, ESSF, ICH, IMA, MS
Species reference ↗
Bistort
Polygonum spp.

Open ground; Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, BWBS, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MH, MS, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Bitterroot
Lewisia rediviva

Woodland; Open ground; Rocky or dry ground; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Specialist food-use reference; check species, plant part and preparation with a qualified expert.

BG, ESSF, IDF, MS, PP
Species reference ↗
Bugleweed
Lycopus spp.

Wet or moist sites.

Mar, Apr, May

Identification required

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Bulrush
Schoenoplectus spp.

Wet or moist sites.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Burdock
Arctium spp.

Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, CWH, IDF, PP
Species reference ↗
Camas
Camassia spp.

Seasonally moist meadows and grasslands; common camas has a broader B.C. range, while great camas is concentrated on southeastern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

Season not yet verified

Specialist identification and preparation required

Expert identification is essential: poisonous death camas can occur nearby. Traditional bulbs require specialist preparation. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

CDF, CWH
Species reference ↗
Cattail
Typha spp.

Wet or moist sites.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

The source includes cautions about identification, preparation or quantity; review them before any food use. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Chufa
Cyperus esculentus

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Jerusalem artichoke
Helianthus tuberosus

Wet or moist sites.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Largeflower triteleia
Triteleia grandiflora

Woodland; Open ground.

Mar, Apr, May

Identification required

Specialist reference: poisonous bulb look-alikes and destructive harvest require particular care.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Mariposa-lily
Calochortus spp.

Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Specialist food-use reference; check species, plant part and preparation with a qualified expert. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BG, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP
Species reference ↗
Nodding onion
Allium cernuum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Mar, Apr, May

Research incomplete

Expert identification required: poisonous bulbs can be confused with wild onions. Confirm conservation and access status before any gathering.

AT, BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Roseroot
Rhodiola spp.

Rocky or dry ground; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

AT, BAFA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IMA, MH, MS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Salsify
Tragopogon spp.

Rocky or dry ground; Disturbed ground.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Silverweed
Argentina spp.

Open ground; Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov

Identification required

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference. Species group: identify an edible member; this entry does not mean every species in the genus is edible.

BG, BWBS, CDF, CWH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Swamp hedge-nettle
Stachys palustris

Wet or moist sites.

Sep, Oct, Nov

Identification required

Confirm species and the intended edible part using the linked reference.

BG, BWBS, CWH, IDF, SBS
Species reference ↗
Tiger lily
Lilium columbianum

Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Specialist food-use reference; check species, plant part and preparation with a qualified expert.

BG, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Wild licorice
Glycyrrhiza lepidota

Wet or moist sites.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Not a routine snack. Sustained or substantial use may be harmful; seek qualified advice.

IDF
Species reference ↗
Wood lily
Lilium philadelphicum

Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Specialist food-use reference; check species, plant part and preparation with a qualified expert.

ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Yellow glacier-lily
Erythronium grandiflorum

Wet or moist sites; Upland habitats.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Specialist food-use reference; check species, plant part and preparation with a qualified expert.

AT, BAFA, BG, CMA, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MS, PP, SBS
Species reference ↗
Bull kelp
Nereocystis luetkeana

Rocky coastal waters.

Mar, Apr, May

Identification required

Spring learning window from the linked guide, not a complete annual harvest calendar. Check marine rules and water quality.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Giant kelp
Macrocystis pyrifera

B.C. marine coast; identify local species and tidal habitat.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

A marine food-use reference, not a mapped terrestrial growing zone. Verify current harvesting rules, water quality and preparation.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Red laver / nori
Porphyra abbottiae and related local taxa

B.C. marine coast; identify local species and tidal habitat.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

A marine food-use reference, not a mapped terrestrial growing zone. Verify current harvesting rules, water quality and preparation.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Ribbon / winged kelp
Alaria marginata

B.C. marine coast; identify local species and tidal habitat.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

A marine food-use reference, not a mapped terrestrial growing zone. Verify current harvesting rules, water quality and preparation.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Sea lettuce
Ulva spp.

Intertidal rocky shores on the coast.

Mar, Apr, May

Identification required

Spring learning window; local abundance, tides, water quality and harvest rules must be checked.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Sugar kelp
Saccharina latissima

B.C. marine coast; identify local species and tidal habitat.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

A marine food-use reference, not a mapped terrestrial growing zone. Verify current harvesting rules, water quality and preparation.

No verified terrestrial zone association
Species reference ↗
Bigleaf maple blossoms
Acer macrophyllum

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Mar, Apr, May

Research incomplete

Identify the tree positively; do not confuse culinary conifers with poisonous yew. Follow permission and sustainable harvest guidance.

CDF, CWH, IDF
Species reference ↗
Douglas-fir tips
Pseudotsuga menziesii

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Mar, Apr, May

Research incomplete

Identify the tree positively; do not confuse culinary conifers with poisonous yew. Follow permission and sustainable harvest guidance.

BG, CDF, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MH, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS
Species reference ↗
Paper birch sap
Betula papyrifera

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Season not yet verified

Research incomplete

Identify the tree positively; do not confuse culinary conifers with poisonous yew. Follow permission and sustainable harvest guidance.

BG, BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
Sitka spruce tips
Picea sitchensis

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Mar, Apr, May

Research incomplete

Identify the tree positively; do not confuse culinary conifers with poisonous yew. Follow permission and sustainable harvest guidance.

AT, CDF, CMA, CWH, ESSF, ICH, MH, MS, SBS
Species reference ↗
White spruce tips
Picea glauca

Habitat details are not yet verified for this profile.

Mar, Apr, May

Research incomplete

Identify the tree positively; do not confuse culinary conifers with poisonous yew. Follow permission and sustainable harvest guidance.

BAFA, BWBS, CWH, ESSF, ICH, IDF, IMA, MS, PP, SBPS, SBS, SWB
Species reference ↗
How to read this guide

The map changes with the selected item, month, search and region. Berry-coloured highlights show matching ecosystem zones; the pale background provides context. Area filters use the ecosystem types found in broad B.C. regions. Plant zone records come from E-Flora BC; they show an ecological association, not a complete range map. Fungi and marine items use habitat guidance and are shown separately from plant zone matches. This catalogue covers documented species and named species groups; it is not an exhaustive inventory. Entries without sourced harvest months say “Season not yet verified” and appear under All year. Entries without verified zone associations do not draw highlights; terrestrial entries without regional evidence appear only under All British Columbia. Spring seaweed entries are learning windows, not claims that seaweeds are absent during the rest of the year.

Use this guide to plan what to learn and observe. Confirm identification, preparation, land access and current harvesting rules before gathering. The map does not establish permission to harvest.

Seasonal and identification references

Northern Bushcraft: regional food plants · FNHA: traditional food fact sheets · UBC: mushroom accounts · UBC E-Flora BC · Silvercore: B.C. berry seasons · Swallow Tail: spring foraging · UBC: mushroom foraging · B.C. native plant collection guide

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