LOCAL VENDOR SPOTLIGHT: Larchwood Farms

Author: Julie, Event Manager

Larchwood Farms is a celebration of one of Idaho’s greatest national treasures, the wild huckleberry. Since 1986, this family-owned enterprise has used sustainably harvested huckleberries combined with natural ingredients to create a myriad of world-class products. What began as the simple joy of making and sharing huckleberry jam for family and friends quickly evolved into a viable business for the owner and founder of Larchwood Farms, Marla Hedman. “Everyone who tried my huckleberry jam wanted to buy it. It was the perfect opportunity for me to be able to stay home with my young children and make a living.”

Known as purple gold in Idaho and Montana, huckleberries grow in the wild at high elevations in forested areas throughout the Pacific Northwest. These tiny yet mighty berries are loaded with antioxidants and are bursting with bold, untamed flavors that complement sweet and savory dishes alike. In August, locals endure summer heat and rugged terrain to hunt for the elusive huckleberry deep in the mountain brush. Gathering huckleberries is more than a seasonal pastime - it is a treasured tradition passed down through generations. For many, the first successful huckleberry picking trip is a rite of passage, marking a deep connection to the land and the legacy of purple gold. Marla grew up foraging wild berries on the Oregon coast. When she married and moved to Montana, she was introduced to the wild mountain-grown huckleberries. “My husband told me this forty years ago. He said if you pick them, you know their worth, if you buy them, you pay dearly and when you eat them you are in heaven! Enjoy our wonderful HUCKLEBERRY bounty... we love sharing our delightful "Purple Gold!" with you!”

Located in Post Falls, Larchwood Farms currently offers about thirty different huckleberry products. How does Marla decide what to make? Marla thoughtfully replied, “Over the years, my customers have asked me to make various items, and I have a knack for creating recipes. Now there is something for everyone!” Some of Marla’s innovative, handcrafted huckleberry delicacies include her renowned jams and jellies, velvety syrups and sauces, and creamy, hand-dipped truffles exploding with wild berry flavor. What is Marla’s favorite? Without hesitation, she replies, “The Wild Huckleberry Medley Jam. It has no added sugar and is the perfect blend of Wild Montana/Idaho huckleberries, Oregon marionberries, and red raspberries with an apple and pear sweetener.” I have to agree with Marla, the Wild Huckleberry Medley jam is phenomenal, and a generous smear on a slice of Pilgrim’s sourdough toast with Cultured Mama’s cream cheese is absolutely sublime!

What challenges does Larchwood Farms face? Marla immediately responded, “The U.S. Forest Service has temporarily halted commercial huckleberry picking for 2025 in Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington. This will significantly impact our supply and local harvesters who rely on this area as a vital source of seasonal income. Without responsible commercial huckleberry picking, much of the wild berry will be left to overripen and go to waste.” According to the U.S. Forest Service, this temporary restriction was implemented to protect declining berry habitat, ensure sustainable harvests, and honor Yakama tribal treaty rights. A final verdict on commercial huckleberry harvesting after 2025 will be determined by ongoing assessments. Marla has posted a link on the Larchwood Farms’ website for more information.

What’s next for Larchwood Farms? Marla reflects for a moment, “We are producing at capacity and now strive to support a sustainable work-life balance.” Larchwood Farms has become a cherished part of Idaho’s culture and heritage for locals and visitors alike. Larchwood Farms products are available to purchase at Pilgrim’s on the endcap of aisle eleven. Thank you for shopping local!