Bog Myrtle (Myrica gale)

Family: Myricaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Myrica gale is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 1. It is in flower from March to May, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

aromatic fruits and leaves are used either fresh or dried to flavour soups, stews etc. — The aromatic fruits and leaves are used either fresh or dried to flavour soups, stews etc.; They are sometimes put in beer and ale to improve the flavour and increase foaming.; The fruit is about 3mm in diameter with a single large seed.; The dried leaves make a delicate and palatable tea.

Habitat & North American Range

Bogs, marshes, fens and wet heathland in acid soils but plants are occasionally found in calcareous fens. (Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)