Wild Edibles – Way Down Yonder for Pawpaws with Nick

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Field Trips Open to the Public Wild Edible Walks

Way down yonder in the pawpaw patch, that’s where you’ll find our master forager Nick Spero. Finding pawpaw trees in our local forests is fairly easy. Finding fruit on a pawpaw tree is the tricky part. Join Nick in search of the pawpaw fruit, a small green potato-shaped fruit with a flavor often compared to bananas, with hints of mango, vanilla, and citrus. The largest edible fruit native to North America, those pawpaws are a local commodity made into bread, ice cream, and salsa, just to name a few dishes. And while pawpaws are the goal, we will be sure to keep our eyes open for other wild plants that can be foraged in this easy-to-moderate, low-intensity hike. Nibble along the way to learn valuable foraging tips and techniques.

Get to know your guide: Nick Spero loves to hunt and fish, and primitive technology has piqued his interest since he was a child. You can view a video produced by NPR about Nick here.

Nick, like most of the other people who lead NHSM field trips, is a volunteer, so your money will go directly to support the programs, the nature collections, and the building that make this kind of nature education possible. Donate or become a member of the Natural History Society of Maryland by visiting https://marylandnature.org/support-maryland-nature/.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate (low-intensity hiking)

Remember to

  • Dress according to the weather. Layers of non-cotton clothing work best. For sunny days, a hat with a brim may be needed.
  • Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
  • Bring water, snacks, sunblock, and for your camera, an extra battery, extra memory card, and lens-cleaning cloth.
  • Bring binoculars and a magnifying glass or a hand lens.
  • Bring your guidebooks.
  • No pets, please.

SPACES ARE LIMITED. The tour should take approximately three hours to complete. The exact meeting space will be provided when registration and payment are complete.

Cancellation Policy: NHSM Field Experiences – Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the field experience will receive a refund (minus a $5 processing fee). Cancellations made within the week of the event will not receive a refund but can be transferred to a friend.

For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.

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