Beyond the branches

Nikki Bawn of Boggle Lane Foods delights in the abundance of nature’s larder while exploring local woodlands.

The ancient art of foraging entices us to leave the beaten path and explore the wild wonders that surround us. While oak and beech trees often steal the spotlight, let’s delve into the lesser-known, quiet heroes of our woodlands. From healing properties to culinary delights, these tree companions have stories to tell.

Alder (Alnus glutinosa):
The Water Whisperer
The alder is a moisture-loving marvel that thrives in damp habitats, along riverbanks, in marshes and near lakes. Its leaves, glossy and bright green, dance in the breeze, but its secret weapon that intrigues foragers is its acorns. Squirrels stash them away, jays squabble over them, badgers feast on their nutty goodness and caterpillars can be found weaving their own tiny tales of survival amongst the leaves.

Collect fresh alder leaves, steep a handful in hot water for 5 minutes to create alder tea to sip slowly while you visualise the alder’s watery wisdom flowing through you.

Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)
With understated elegance, the hornbeam stands unassuming, its grey bark etched with quiet dignity. Its serrated leaves flutter like delicate lace, but there’s more to this tree than meets the eye. Woodworkers cherish hornbeam for its dense timber, ideal for tool handles, intricate carvings, and even chess pieces.

Next time you pass a hornbeam, run your fingers along its trunk to connect with generations of craftsmen that have gone before you, and pick a few leaves to make tea.

Field Maple (Acer campestre)
Nature’s Miniature Masterpiece, the field maple, is petite and unpretentious, gracing hedgerows and wood edges. Its lobed leaves turn a brilliant yellow in autumn, painting the landscape with warmth.

Musicians of old knew its secret, the field maple’s wood resonates beautifully. Lutes and harpsichords owe their melodies to this unassuming tree. And those “samaras”, the seed pods, twirl down like miniature helicopters, carrying whispers of forgotten tunes.

Why not try field maple seed syrup? Gather field maple samaras (winged seeds), boil them in water until soft, then strain the liquid, add sugar, and simmer to create a gloriously golden syrup to drizzle over pancakes or vanilla ice cream.

Wild Service Tree (Sorbus torminalis)
An enigmatic tree that hides in ancient woodlands, its deeply lobed leaves guard secrets and the reddish-brown fruits were once used to flavour drinks. Perhaps they hold memories of feasts and celebrations long past. Birds and insects rely on this tree for food and shelter. So, next time you’re wandering, keep an eye out for the wild service tree – it might just reveal its mysteries to you.

As we meander under tree boughs to bask in dappled sunlight, let’s honour these unsung heroes: the alder, hornbeam, field maple and wild service tree. Their leaves rustle with stories, their roots intertwine with ours.

Foraging isn’t just about sustenance; it help us connect with nature’s timeless treasures. So go, explore, and let the trees whisper their ancient wisdom.

And remember foraging should always be done with care. Make sure you properly identify everything you pick before you use it and follow ethical guidelines when collecting wild plants to leave finds for future foragers.

For more information on foraging email: nikki@bogglelane.co.uk

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