Edible flowers are a lovely way to add color and charm to your foods. Lots of flowers are edible, and it seems like such an indulgence to eat them.

Some flowers that can be eaten are:

Nasturtiums are bright orange, red and yellow blooms that have a sweet, spicy taste and are perfect in salads

Rose petals are delicious as garnish on pastries and are used to make jam.

Violets, pansies and Johnny jump-ups are delicious on pastries as well and are frequently crystallized as candy.

Other edible flowers are:

Orchids, Hens and Chicks, Cockscomb, the leaves and flowers of Red-hot pokers and bamboo

It's important to know what you're eating. Some common garden plants are quite dangerous and could lead to everything from upset tummies to death. Here are some to watch out for:

Foxglove, Wisteria, Lilly of the Valley and Jack in the Pulpit

Remember to know what you're eating and you'll be fine. Also don't eat commercially grown blooms unless they're certified organic, and be sure and wash your flowers first in salt water, then in fresh water. Lots of gourmet grocery stores sell edible flowers, and if you buy them there you're sure to be safe.

Episode 112 Main Page