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General Lee Speaking
18-08-2009, 02:09
Took some pics of 3 trees I encountered while out the other evening. Before I go poisoning myself by eating these fruits, could anyone help me with ID? I'm thinking Sloe and Damsons. Really new to bushcraft so would appreciate any help.

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/3835/dsc00039qpi.jpg
http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/1841/dsc00046jlr.jpg
http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/2908/dsc00053mmk.jpg

littlebiglane
18-08-2009, 07:29
Last one is sloes I think - hard to judge the size - but if its the size of a standard marble or a tiny bit bigger then its probably a sloe. A bite into it will be VERY astringent and confirming it as a sloe. If its sweet then it is some sort of bullace or damsom.

The second one is also some sort of small plum - most probably some sort of bullace, gage or damson again - it has more of a positive 'victoria plum' shape to it. It could even be an 'escapee'. The first pictured one is also a member of the prunus family. All three have prunus style leaves. I don't know of any poisonous equivalents that they could be mistaken for. But get a positive ID with a field guide before you do go chomping. Maybe someone else can add to this.

marcusleftthesite
18-08-2009, 08:16
1st-sloes
2nd-Damson
3rd - sloes

chickenofthewoods
18-08-2009, 08:24
I'd agree with what's been said. I you're planning to risk a taste test, damson/bullace will ripen to a perhaps slightly tart but pleasant edibility where a sloe will always retain it's mouth puckering estringency.

Front Room Woodlander
18-08-2009, 20:49
I agree.
By the way just been given bag of green gages by local poacher (proper bushcrafter), lovely!

General Lee Speaking
18-08-2009, 22:55
Thanks all! I had them down as per Marcus2's post so I guess my tree/plant identification is coming along ok :) Will proceed with caution though!

Colin.W
19-08-2009, 10:16
without some guage of size I would agree the last is a sloe the other 2 I cant see any tell tale thorns so look like bullace which are smaller than plums and more tart to the taste but still cook up as a tasty desert, chutney or preserve