Wild Plums Bring Flavor To Wyoming

If you've ever been hiking and come across a bush that looks like it's growing plums, you're probably right. Likely, you didn't stumble upon someone's plum tree; you just hit a patch of wild plums.

The wild plum, or American Plum/ Prunus americana, can grow in different parts of Wyoming. You'll see them along riverbanks, in the woods, the prairies, in pastures, and canyons throughout the state.

The wild plum is a part of the rose family and is full of healthy benefits, like being full of vitamin C and antioxidants that cause its bright colors.

Many times, when you find the wild plums, they're very tart unless you find them to be fully ripe, so many people will use them to make a jam, syrup, pies, or wild plum "brandy" (sounds like that would make a great hot toddy).

Wild plums are a popular food for wildlife around Wyoming, too. Often eaten by turkey, black bear, or others, and from mid-August through September is the best time to harvest them.

Since they're a popular snack for wildlife, you'll need to get there quickly, before they're all gone.

Just like plums you find in the store, the color becomes deeper as it ripens. If the skin seems a little wrinkled, there's still time. The wrinkled skin is a good indication that the plum is fully ripe and ready to pick.

Some folks say that when you go to pick a wild plum, if it's ripe, it will fall right into your hand. If you have to tug on it, it's likely not ready.