Cooped Up? Get Uncooped.

Cattails, those tall, grassy spikes with the felt-like bulb at the top, that grow in nearly every wetland and along nearly every waterway - even roadside ditches - are one of the most versatile wild foods out there.

They are one of the few wild food plants that have something nutritious and filling to offer at any time of the year.

However, the quickest and easiest way instantly tap into their goodness is to simply harvest a few of the smaller, younger stems by grasping them at the base and pulling straight up in one sharp tug.

Peel away the outer leaves to expose the tender, white core. Wash off that core with clean water - generally not the water they're growing in or near - and munch like a stalk of celery or slice into a salad.

Warning - Never eat any wild plant until you have identified it beyond any doubt with at least one reliable field guide.

• wild
• foods
• foraging
• cattails