Are there flowers that are dangerous to eat?

Several lovely garden flowers can be poisonous if eaten. Poisonous kinds very much resemble edible species, resulting in disastrous blunders. It is therefore important that accurate identification is made before any flower is used in cooking. Some contain poisons that are deadly by affecting the heart's and nervous system's rhythm. Due to the dangers associated with these wildflowers, it is essential to be aware of them to protect ourselves and our families from using them.

Misidentifications are the primary cause of most poisonings. The stems of hemlock are purple-spotted, while the stems of the hairy wild carrot are not. The leaves of foxglove feel fuzzy to the touch, while the leaves of edible comfrey are smooth to the touch. The color of the flowers of hydrangeas is influenced by the soil pH, but they are always toxic. When in doubt, always assume a plant to be contaminated until proven otherwise.

Adhere strictly to safety measures. Use only edible flowers or ones you know are safe. Wash your hands after handling unknown plants. Teach children not to put flowers in their mouths. Keep emergency numbers visible. If a flower is accidentally ingested, call poison control immediately and provide a sample of the plant.

Confidently grow safe alternatives to flowers. Nasturtiums brighten with petals that pose no risk. Pansies offer edible petals in a variety of colors. Borage has a cucumber flavor without danger. These safe varieties add color and flavor as well as danger. Always buy from reputable growers.

Read the full article: 20 Edible Flower Varieties for Gourmet Gardens