Don’t discount colorful plants as sources for sustenance on the trail. Fireweed may present an alluring appearance, with its deep purple color and signature leaf veins. Yet, the edible plant has satisfied hunger pangs for centuries. Native Americans incorporated fireweed into their diets, and early western American settlers discovered the nutritional benefits of vitamin A and C by eating the plant. Fireweed tastes best during the early growth stage, as mature plant leave a bitter aftertaste.