Wild Edible Of The Week - Week 6 "Sweet Violet"

Wild Edible Of The Week - Week 6 - "Sweet Violet"

Botanical name : Viola odorata

Common name : Sweet Violet

Physical appearance : A low growing downy creeper with rounded green leaves and violet, white or blue flowers.

Edible parts : Flowers, leaves and stems.

Best places to find : Gardens, scrub land, hedgerows, woodland edges.

Time of year : Best harvested between March and May.

Serving suggestions : Works best as a flavouring for various food stuffs including sponge cakes, rice puddings and wild game.

Other uses : Flowers can be dipped in egg whites then dipped in granulated sugar. Once dry, they can be added to salads, puddings and main courses to add interest.

NB - Please be sure you know what you are picking. Many plants look similar to one another and many can be poisonous! Please seek professional instruction if you are unsure!

Photo courtesy of Bernard Dupont via 
[[File:Common Violet (Viola odorata) (8337402801).jpg|Common_Violet_(Viola_odorata)_(8337402801)]]