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As many of these rare species are a unique component of the Bella Coola environment, we kindly ask that you take care when out on your search for them. We would also recommend that you do not collect or remove them from their natural habitat. Thank you from all of us at the Tweedsmuir Park Lodge.

It is the 'natural' in 'Supernatural BC' that we are preserving for you to take pleasure in!

Many edible and healing planrts and herbs can be taken; but, if in doubt please consult a local naturalist.

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There are many species of rare wildflowers, edible and healing plants, as well as old growth trees in primodial old growth forests. Many are found in and around the Bella Coola Valley, the lodge and Tweedsmuir Provincial Park.

The rare Mountain Ladyslipper

This wild Orchid is an exquisite flower and flourishes in Bella Coola. This flower was not common throughout the province, but was prominent on Vancouver Island sometime ago. This variety of the Ladyslipper is now found in Tweedsmuir Provincial Park and around the lodge property in early June. At times they may also be found at sub-alpine elevations. Would be collectors should be aware, that reportedly, this Orchid takes at least 15 years to flower.

  

False Azelea or Fool's Huckleberry

These Azeleas are found from sea level to subalpine elevations and in shady to open coniferous forests. They prefer moist, acid humus slopes, and stream banks. The lower Stl'atl'imx used the twigs and leaves to make a tea, however; be forewarned that these wildflowers contain the same poisonous compound as Bog Laurel. This compound was used to wash open wounds or sores that would not heal and also to slow spitting blood.

 

Fairyslippers

The deliciously scented Fairyslipper, although currently widespread, is rapidly being exterminated in populated areas due to trampling and especially picking. These delicate and beautiful wild Orchids produce tasty corms, and are sometimes called the 'Black Cod' due to their rich buttery flavour. The First Nations would eat the corms in small quantities, and the tribal women would eat them raw to enhance their bust lines.

Wild Violet

This delicate beauty has sometimes been confused with the Alaska Violet and the Howell's Violet. This species of wild Violet prefers dry to moist meadows and can be found from sea level to timberline elevations. All Violet species are edible and the petals are delightful eaten raw in salads. The leaves are used as a thickening agent for soups and/or sauces, used as pot herbs and used to make teas. The Violets' healing properties are well known. More commonly these wildflowers are used to relieve coughs, lung congestion and as a laxative for children.

There are many species of flora in and around the Bella Coola Valley, Tweedsmuir Park Lodgeand Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. Download our list of just a few samples of wildfowers, edible and healing plants. (PDF)

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 Rare Mt Lady's Slipper

The Mountain Ladyslipper, sometimes called the 'moccasin flower', is now extinct in most areas of British Columbia due to over-collecting.