Flora In Forest Park (Portland) I

Trillium ovatum Western Trillium

This native member of the Lily family (Liliaceae) does succeed in making people joyful at the first sight of its return in early spring with white and yellow flowers.

Sambucus racemosa var arborescens Red Elderberry

This plant is a prolifically growing as a shrub or small tree in forest-like conditions. Red Elderberries are small and seedy, but abundant. Don't eat them raw, or the result will be nausea. Cook and strain out the seeds and stems to make a rich sauce or jelly.

Melissa officinalis Lemon Balm
This herb is commonly used to make soothing teas which can be used to ease insomnia or depression. This exotic is consider invasive by some.

Smilacina racemosa False Solomon's-seal
This native member of the Lily family is a beautiful ornamental in shade gardens. The red berries are edible raw. They have a large pit, but the flesh is pleasant to eat. The roots were used by the Gitksan in a tea to treat "rheumatism, sore back, and kidney trouble".


Tellima grandiflora Fringecup
The Skagit pounded fringecup, boiled it and drank the tea for any kind of sickness, especially lack of appetite.