Edible Blooms
- Agnes Gaspar
- Sep 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 30
Geranium Blooms: Beautiful, Fragrant & Surprisingly Edible 🌸
Dahlia Petals and Tubers Are Also Edible!
When we think of edible flowers, the usual suspects come to mind—nasturtiums, violas, and calendulas. But did you know that some geraniums and dahlias are also edible? These vibrant blooms don’t just add charm to your garden beds; they can also bring a delightful twist to your kitchen creations!
Not All Geraniums Are Created Equal
First things first: when we talk about edible geraniums, we're referring to scented geraniums from the Pelargonium genus, not the hardy cranesbill types (Geranium genus). It’s an important distinction—only specific scented pelargoniums are safe (and tasty) to eat.
Popular edible varieties include:
Rose-scented geranium Pelargonium graveolens)*
Lemon-scented geranium Pelargonium crispum)*
Mint, nutmeg, and ginger-scented types
Each variety carries its own unique aroma and flavor, making them a fun and fragrant addition to your edible garden.
How to Use Edible Geraniums and Dahlia Flowers
1. Garnish with Grace
Use whole petals to decorate cakes, cupcakes, cocktails, or cheese platters. Their ruffled edges and gentle colors make for a soft, romantic touch.
2. Infused Magic
Infuse leaves (not just flowers!) into sugar, syrups, jellies, or even custards for a subtle floral note. Rose and lemon are especially lovely in baked goods or teas.
Book a garden tour here and request a rose petal cookbook we have lovingly created!
3. Freeze for Beauty
Pop petals into ice cube trays for the prettiest party drink accessory. Perfect for garden parties, bridal showers, or a quiet tea moment at home.
A Few Quick Tips
Always Grow Organically
Avoid pesticides or chemicals on any flowers you intend to eat.
Harvest Early
Pick blooms in the cool of the morning for the best flavor and freshness.
Use Sparingly
Start with small amounts—the flavors can be strong and surprising!
The Versatility of Dahlias
Dahlia tubers are not on most people’s dinner menus, but they are absolutely delicious! That said, because there are so many different species, not all have necessarily been used as food. Dahlia flowers, like nasturtiums, honeysuckle, marigold, pansy, and many other pretty flowers, are also edible.
Connecting Garden to Table
Geraniums are more than just hardy garden companions—they’re fragrant, functional, and a delightful way to connect the garden to your table. If you’re already growing scented varieties, you’re just a step away from elevating your floral experience.
Have you tried edible blooms in your kitchen? We'd love to hear how you used them!
Book a garden tour on our website home page and ask for a Rose Petal cookbook when you arrive, mentioning this blog. It will be yours for FREE!
Comments