You can tell from the picture why an immature frond is known as a fiddlehead.
Look again.
Fiddleheads are a spring delicacy in many areas of the country. People steam them, eat them in salads, or pickle them. I’ve never eaten a fiddlehead, but I’d try them given the opportunity.
I certainly don’t want to eat these fiddleheads because I want to enjoy the fern’s deer proof foliage all summer. It seems odd that people eat these but the deer leave them alone.
I almost didn’t notice these when I was outside on Sunday. By chance I leaned over to pull a weed and there they were. I’ve found that if I really stop to look in nature, I see the most beautiful things.
We have lots of ferns in the woods behind our house. I always look for these in the spring. They are pretty!
ReplyDeleteI love unexpected finds like this - doesn't it just make you smile? I think I have eaten fiddleheads, but I can't remember what they tasted like!
ReplyDeleteThis is a big reason why I love this time of year. Seeing things pop out of the ground. It is a very hopeful time.
ReplyDeleteAnd I could tell you the whole story of the fern life cycle, it's quite interesting, but perhaps TMI for a blog comment - - - -
ReplyDeleteSigned,
Mrs. Science who still needs to teach SOMEPLACE!
;-)
I had no idea they were called fiddleheads! Thanks for the botany lesson....now I'll be in search of fiddleheads.
ReplyDeleteLove this post! I planted 5 new Ostrich Ferns yesterday, and yes... the "fiddleheads" looked exactly as you pictured! I love nature, and it's the time when I'm digging in the dirt that I feel closest to God!
ReplyDeleteAnd did you know that as they are still curled up they are an example of the Golden Mean or a swirling square (depending on your term). Beautiful photos, my friend!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know they were called fiddleheads, or even that people ate them. I never cease to be amazed at what nature can teach us. Beautiful photos too, Paula.
ReplyDeleteSo pretty those little fiddleheads! Great pictures. I don't know that I would eat one though, maybe with ranch dressing? Have a great weekend Paula!
ReplyDeleteMy grandparents' wood were full of ferns. Love them! Pretty photos, Paula!
ReplyDeleteGreat pictures, Paula. I love it when the ferns start emerging in the spring. Carla
ReplyDeleteWhat a neat neat post! I am enjoying your blog (just found you). We call my 20 month old daughter, Sweet Bean so the title of your blog did catch my eye!
ReplyDeleteHope you're having a great week!
Shannon
Webbisodes
http://ourgatorzone.blogspot.com