Wild Food Plants of Australia
Fieldguide
Wild Food Plants of Australia - Book Review
I come from a horticulture background so must own up to having more than a passing interest in the plants and ecosystems I walk through. I also have a keen interest in the whole concept of edible plants and while its that rare I’ll make use of these resources, I do love to learn as I go.
For those of you who use field guides this one is a typical example of the both the format and structure. This book is set out in a small, approximately B5 format, so it’s going to fit easily into the smallest pack without taking up too much space. The plants covered in this book are found Australia wide with each description including a typical image, particularly of the edible parts where possible and descriptive text that references what to look for and how to prepare the edible components.
As an example, one my favourite trees in southern Australia is the Kurrajong tree which is native to the area I live in. I always love taking photos of the trees and in particular, the seed pods. I discovered through this book that with a small amount of preparation, the seeds are high in protein and fat and can be eaten raw or cooked.
Plant descriptions range from a double page per plant all the way down to four plants per double page spread. The smaller descriptions are saved for those of the ‘pick and eat’ kind rather than the ones needing any clarification on what you are eating or how to prepare.
As you would expect with this sort of book there is a section on the danger of poisoning including through lack of appropriate preparation. Essentially what it comes down to it, if in any doubt whatsoever don’t chance it and leave it alone.
I do test and try plants I come across but I’m just as interested in finding out about what I’m seeing and this is a great book whatever you choose.
Chapter Headings
Wild Food Plants of Australia
- Preface
- Introduction
- Using the book
- The habitats
- The plants as food
- The danger of poisoning
- The plants
- Introduced food plants
- Mushrooms
- Foraging and cooking
- Wild food nutrients
- Bush survival
- Changes
- Appendix I Leaf gallery
- Appendix II Tuber gallery
- References
- Index
We Like
- Good size for a field guide to carry on a hike
- Australian wide coverage
- Good representative images
- Details on any preparation required to consume
- Provides an opportunity to learn as you walk
We Don't Like
- Nothing
Buy One
You can purchase Wild Food Plants of Australia from Amazon Australia
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Investment
AUD $26.95 RRP
Wild Plants of Australia book
Page example – what’s inside
Close up of page showing description and page map
Disclaimer
This review was done with product purchased by Australian Hiker
Last updated
22 June 2024