Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)

Edibility:Edible

Eating notes: A Bilberry's flavour is very similar to a Blueberry, though perhaps a little richer and sharper. They can be used as you might Blueberries. Eaten raw, added to muffins or made into jam.

The Bilberry is a close relative of the Blueberry. It common in southern and western England on heaths and acidic-soiled woodland.

Height: 30 - 50cm

Leaves: Small and oval with lightly-toothed edges. Reddening with age.

Flowers: Small green & pink, lantern-shaped

Stems: Plants form low woody bushes. The stems are hairless. Bilberries are perennial and deciduous.

Fruit: Fruit look like a smaller version of their cousin the Blueberry. The plants can be found in perfusion in the right locations. However, the fruit's small-size make collecting a significant quantity time consuming.