Wild Kea Plums

Wild plums are a satisfying and easy find in autumn. But have you ever found Kea plums? I was first introduced to these fruits by Rory Macphee, an inspiring wild foodie and licensed seaweed harvester. Rory spoke of the joys of gathering them along the Helford river in his coracle.

As a forager I am keen to find abundant plants, 'weeds' and unwanted invasive species. Kea plums are a rare find, so not on my list of edibles to gather. Though when found they may well be growing abundantly, or have dropped to the floor and be available for humans and animals alike. At such times I might gather a few.

Where do Kea Plums grow?

Kea plums are thought to originate from the Cornish village of Kea - hence the name. It is unclear whether they are truly wild or were cultivated at some stage. Records show that they've been around for several hundred years and were developed into small 'orchards' being harvested on the Tregothnan Estate.

According to Rory (mentioned above) and John and Dave at iwalkcornwall, in the 19th century the fruits were gathered by boat, along the rivers, creeks and estuary. The village of Kea drops down to the Truro river and Calenick creek.

How to identify Kea Plums

Kea plums are a small, oval, stoned-fruit. Similar to, but smaller than damsons. They have a dark skin and yellow flesh. Their flavour is a mixture of tart and sweet and is generally considered too tart to eat fresh, and better cooked into a jam. I'll let you decide if have an opportunity to try a ripe, ready and only-pick-when-abundant Kea plum.

A little foraging story....

Most years I see some abandoned Kea plums along the edge of the creek. I'm often too early or too late in the season to enjoy any. Recently I was leading a foraging walk and spotted some on the background. We then watched Paddy dog balance on rocks to reach them. He does like his fruit, though I was surprised he was going for this tart plum.

I didn't get to capture this part of his adventure, but here's a little video snippet of us all finding the plums.

Can you forage for Kea Plums

Occasionally I take a couple of plums when I find them growing abundantly or freshly dropped to the ground. Tregothnan estate continue to grow, harvest and sell these fruits and are currently looking into making them a protected species. Luckily these trees give graciously. Please always think of the bigger picture of nature and respect the amount she gives and take none or little unless there's an obvious abundance.

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