Salal (Gaultheria shallon)

Family: Ericaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

An evergreen shrub native to western North America coastal forests with dark blue-purple sweet berries and leathery foliage.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Berries, Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet, earthy, slightly resinous berry reminiscent of blueberry blended with dark pomegranate and mint. — Eaten fresh by the handful during coastal autumn hikes; Sun-dried into traditional berry cakes for winter storage; Simmered into thick jams and compotes paired with game meats; Leaves steeped for an astringent, soothing herbal tea

Habitat & North American Range

Coastal coniferous forests, rocky bluffs, and ocean margins from Alaska to central California. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)