One very important thing that you need to remember is that not every flower is edible. In fact, sampling some flowers can make you very, very sick. You also should NEVER use pesticides or other chemicals on any part of any plant that produces blossoms you plan to eat.
Daffodil (Narcissus spp.), a common spring-flowering perennial, contains a toxic chemical that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested. In Japan, daffodil leaves may be mistakenly placed in dumplings or stir fry instead of Chinese chives when cooking.
For a field flower that is considered a weed by some, the daisy is surprisingly useful in the kitchen. Not only the bright yellow or white flowers are edible, also the small leaves. Edible daisies are slightly spicy. The taste is bitter, almost nutty.
Violet flowers can be used to garnish salads or flavor vinegar and syrup. Pick them fresh for salads or freeze them while you continue to collect enough of the desired quantity for an infused vinegar or syrup recipe.
The flowers of all orchids are considered edible, and some are even ingested as herbal medicine in certain cultures. However, some species do cause stomach irritation when you consume them. Meanwhile, vanilla orchids are the only edible fruit-bearing orchid species in the world.
Both hyacinths and tulips belong to the Liliaceae family, and contain allergenic lactones or similar alkaloids. The toxic principle of these plants is very concentrated in the bulbs (versus the leaf or flower), and when ingested in large amounts, can result in severe clinical signs.
If ingested, may cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract with symptoms of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms usually subside within 4 hours but may last up to 24 hours.
Background. Edible flowers are defined as innocuous and nontoxic flowers with health benefits when consumed as human diet. So far, hundreds of edible flowers have been identified. Among them, marigold is one of the popular edible flowers which has been used from ancient times.
It seems unlikely that such a beautiful plant would be used for any other purpose than to accent our gardens. But the truth of the matter is, Lilies are edible. In fact, they are delicious. If you've ever wondered about this interesting bit about these gorgeous garden favorites, look no further.
All dahlia flowers and tubers are edible. The flavours and textures can vary greatly depending on the soil and conditions in which they were grown. Flavours range from water chestnut through to a spicy apple or even carrot.
Carnation flowers can be added whole, or the petals can be sprinkled over a variety of fresh and cooked dishes. In addition, separate the petals and use as a raw garnish to elevate cakes, salads and pies. The petals can also be pulled off the flower and used to toss through salads.
Unopened buds are the most sensitive parts of an orchid, and unsanitary handling can be one of the main causes of orchid viruses. First know there is no real reason or need to touch unopened orchid buds. However, if you must touch, make sure to thoroughly wash with soap and warm water before handling your plant.
The flowers, leaves, and seeds of the hibiscus are all consumable. Most commonly, people use the leaf-like part of the flower that protects the bud as it grows, known as the calyx.
Tulips are known all over the world as stunning flowers, prized for their captivating wealth of colors and numerous varieties. However, it is a little known fact that the tulip bulb and its flowers are edible.
However, sunflowers can do more than just add aesthetic appeal; in fact, they are an entirely edible plant. From root to leaf, sprout to stalk, you can use your sunflowers to make everything from salads to sunflower tea.
Mums Are Edible
It's especially popular in China, and is made with the dried flower heads. However, the leaves are also edible, and can be added to salads or cooked like other greens.
Flowers like hydrangeas and baby's breath, while popular in bouquets, are actually toxic. Even if you aren't eating the actual flowers, just contact with the buttercream frosting you will eat could be dangerous, so it's best to stick with flowers that are edible.
Many flowering plants have the word “rose” in their common name, but are not true roses. Rose of Sharon, Primrose, Rosebay, Christmas Rose, Moss Rose, or Desert Rose can be poisonous to children and pets.
Snapdragon. Give your next culinary creation flower power with snapdragon. The flavour is reminiscent of chicory, which makes snapdragons suitable for savoury offerings such as salads and canapés. Stuff with cream cheese or guacamole for a one-of-a-kind hors d'oeuvre.