Edible flowers have been used for centuries. They provide a unique flavor both raw and cooked. Edible flowers may seem like a strange idea at first, but they are packed with plant nutrients known as phytochemicals and a range of vitamins and minerals.
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A great reason to grow edible flowers is they will beautify your space and provide food. You don’t need a large garden to grow your own edible flowers. Some can be grown in container gardens on window ledges or in window boxes.
To have success it’s important to start with good seeds and soil. If you need help getting started review my article that includes 6 steps for success.
The following are some flowers which are wonderful for beginners wanting to grow edibles and add them to recipes. When buying the seeds, always check for the Latin name to make sure you are getting an edible variety and not a potentially dangerous cousin.
Borage (Borago officinalis)
These star-shaped flowers come in pink, violet and blue, and taste slightly of cucumbers. Borage is popular in savory dishes like soups and stews. You can also freeze the flowers in ice cube trays to add to summertime drinks for some extra refreshment.
It will grow in any degree of sunlight, and almost any soil.
It is an excellent dried herb to always keep on hand for use in teas. Borage flowers and leaves can be used for fever, cough, and depression.
Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum morifolium, or Chrysanthemum x grandiflorum)
Mums taste the way they smell, slightly spicy and pungent. Use sparingly in salads, stir fries and rice dishes; a little usually goes a long way.
Mums need lots of sunlight and do well in most soils if they are well-drained.
Daylilies (Hemerocallis fulva)
These flowers taste sweet and floral. They are best harvested when the buds are just starting to open. Commonly used in Asian cuisine, salads, and desserts.
They thrive in the sun in moist soil which is well-drained.
Geraniums (Pelargonium)
The flowers and leaves are edible on scented geranium. The taste can vary from a spicy nutmeg or ginger to citrus or peppermint. The lemon and peppermint-tasting varieties work well in ice cream, sorbet, and ice cubes. Freeze the flowers and then use the cubes to liven up your pitchers or punch bowls.
Many people find that eating geranium helps lower their feelings of stress. They also are supportive in wound healing.
Geraniums like light and well-drained soil.
Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender has many uses around the home, including as parts of recipes. English lavender varieties (Lavendula angustifolia) have the best flavor for recipes, which range from sweet to savory.
Lavender water, candy, sauces, and dressings all have a light citrus taste with an underlying tang of rosemary and sage. Remove all the flowers from the stalk when cooking.
These plants love sunlight and need well-drained soil. This is one plant that you truly need to know the botanical name to know if it will grow in your climate.
Nasturtium
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is the most popular of all edible flowers and has been used for centuries as a component of salads and as an ingredient similar in taste to watercress.
You can eat both the leaves and flowers. They come in a wide range of colors, so work well as a contrasting color in salads and as a garnish.
This plant thrives well in both sun and light shade.
Pansies
Pansies (Viola tricolor var.) come in a range of colors and generally taste like grapes. The flowers are used for garnish, salads, and cake decoration.
Pansies will grow well in anything except direct sunlight. The moisture levels will vary by the type of pansy, so read the seed packet carefully.
Pinks
Pinks (Dianthus) have a delicate flavor with a touch of cloves. They are popular as an addition to hot tea and cider. The flowers are used as an attractive garnish for creamy soups, fruit salad, and cookie platters.
Pinks need a lot of sunlight and a rich soil to thrive. There are varied species of pinks, so be sure to read the seed packet carefully.
It is important to know which flowers are edible and which are not. Knowing the botanical names can help you interpret the various species.
If you have pets, be aware that not all plants are safe. You need to take precautions with certain flowers, so your pet doesn’t have access. Consider fencing off your garden if you are planting flowers that may be toxic to pets. For a full list of toxic plants refer to the ASPCA’s list online.
Throughout the season these flowers add brightness and joy to the garden. I love being able to incorporate them into family meals. I would enjoy seeing how you incorporate them into your kitchen.
Grab a copy of the full eBook about Edible Flowers by clicking the picture below.
