Edible Flowers

Here's a good site for it: http://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowers/EdibleFlowersMain.htm Some dos and don'ts! Following are some simple guidelines to keep in mind before you eat any type of flower: DO'S: Eat flowers only when you are positive they are edible. If uncertain, consult a good reference book on edible flowers prior to consumption. If pesticides are necessary, use only those products labeled for use on edible crops. No flowers is safe to eat unless it was grown organically Wash all flowers thoroughly before you eat them. Introduce flowers into your diet in small quantities one species at a time. Too much of a good thing may cause problems for your digestive system. Remove pistils and stamens from flowers before eating. Separate the flower petals from the rest of the flower just prior to use to keep wilting to a minimum. Eat only the flower petals for most flowers except pansies violas, and Johnny-jump-ups (in which they add flavor). If you have allergies, introduce edible flowers gradually, as they may aggravate some allergies. DON'TS: Do not eat flowers from florists, nurseries or garden centers. In many cases these flowers have been treated with pesticides not labeled for food crops. Do not eat flowers picked from the side of the road. Once again, possible herbicide use eliminates these flowers as a possibility for use. Just because flowers are served with food served at a restaurant does not mean they are edible. Know you edible flowers - as some chefs do not. It's easy and very attractive to use flowers for garnish on plates or for decoration, but avoid using non-edible flowers this way. Many people believe that anything on the plate can be eaten. They may not know if the flower is edible or not and may be afraid to ask.

I have been learning about wild edibles a lot recently through various different people. One of the best books and DVD's that I have are from a lady called Isabell Shipard. She is in Australia and is incredibly knowledgeable. She has a herb farm only a 2 hour drive north of me and I plan to visit it in the near future. Her website is: http://www.herbsarespecial.com.au/ I have a friend in the USA who is an expert on wild edibles. He is in Oregon and used to run wild edible tours over there. He has just returned home from a big trip and I recently caught up with him at one of his lectures while he was here in Australia. He tours all over the USA doing lectures as well. His website is: http://sergeiboutenko.com/