Tree ID (pic heavy)

[General Lee Speaking]

Took some pics of 3 trees I encountered while out the other evening. Before I go poisoning myself by eating these fruits, could anyone help me with ID? I'm thinking Sloe and Damsons. Really new to bushcraft so would appreciate any help.

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/3835/dsc00039qpi.jpg
http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/1841/dsc00046jlr.jpg
http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/2908/dsc00053mmk.jpg

 

[littlebiglane]

Last one is sloes I think - hard to judge the size - but if its the size of a standard marble or a tiny bit bigger then its probably a sloe. A bite into it will be VERY astringent and confirming it as a sloe. If its sweet then it is some sort of bullace or damsom.

The second one is also some sort of small plum - most probably some sort of bullace, gage or damson again - it has more of a positive 'victoria plum' shape to it. It could even be an 'escapee'. The first pictured one is also a member of the prunus family. All three have prunus style leaves. I don't know of any poisonous equivalents that they could be mistaken for. But get a positive ID with a field guide before you do go chomping. Maybe someone else can add to this.

 

[marcusleftthesite]

1st-sloes
2nd-Damson
3rd - sloes

 

[chickenofthewoods]

I'd agree with what's been said. I you're planning to risk a taste test, damson/bullace will ripen to a perhaps slightly tart but pleasant edibility where a sloe will always retain it's mouth puckering estringency.

 

[Front Room Woodlander]

I agree.
By the way just been given bag of green gages by local poacher (proper bushcrafter), lovely!

 

[General Lee Speaking]

Thanks all! I had them down as per Marcus2's post so I guess my tree/plant identification is coming along ok Will proceed with caution though!

 

[Colin.W]

without some guage of size I would agree the last is a sloe the other 2 I cant see any tell tale thorns so look like bullace which are smaller than plums and more tart to the taste but still cook up as a tasty desert, chutney or preserve