I love these flowers in front of my building. They're Oregon Grapes. I always forget what time of year they flower, because they won't produce the actual "grapes" for some time still.
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Oregon Grape Flowers in January (Portland)
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The grapes that are produced by those plants are really nutritious, from what I understand, like rose hips. One of the many abundant plants the urban forager should keep an eye out for here in the PNW. And lucky you, it's right outside your door!
I actually didn't know that about the grapes! I know that when I was a kid, and I lived out in the country, we'd dig up a portion of the roots of a stand of Oregon Grapes and make a tincture out of it for stomach aches
Yeah, the whole plant can be used for various medicinal purposes, but the grapes I hear make a delicious jam. I've always wanted to try making some. Let me know if you try it, since you have some so readily available to you :)