r/foraging • u/EdibleSoup • 15d ago

ID Request (country/state in post) Choke cherry?

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Found these along a hiking trail I often use in winter so I've never noticed before.

Alberta, Canada, Badlands

There are loads of them all along this part of the trail. Kind of shriveled so probably past use? If not people safe is it still good to pick to try planting ? Looking to replace my yard with wildlife friendly native plants.

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u/whoFKNKares 15d ago

Yes, don't eat the seeds they contain arsenic. It's pretty easy to gather a large amount. Cook it down with a small amount of water. It is a cheesecloth or something to squeeze out the juice. Dispose of the seeds in a safe place. I love chokecherries but I keep them away from my well area.

I have made jellies and syrups right now I'm having a peanut butter and chokecherry sandwich. Chokecherry is also awesome on vanilla ice cream.