Can you eat day flowers? Understanding the Difference
When discussing whether you can eat day flowers, the most critical step is correct identification. The term "day flower" can be confusing, often referring to two very different plants: the ornamental daylily (Hemerocallis) and the wild Asiatic dayflower (Commelina communis). It is imperative to distinguish these edible varieties from true lilies (Lilium), many of which are highly toxic, particularly to cats. The key difference lies in their botanical families; daylilies belong to the genus Hemerocallis, while true lilies are in the genus Lilium. Daylilies grow from tuberous roots, whereas true lilies grow from bulbs.
Edible Daylilies (Hemerocallis)
Daylilies (Hemerocallis) are not only edible but also quite versatile in the kitchen. Almost every part of the plant can be consumed during different seasons, offering a variety of flavors and textures.
Edible Parts and Preparation
- Young Shoots: Harvested in early spring, the tender young shoots can be sautéed or used raw in salads. They possess a mild flavor, similar to spring onions or asparagus.
- Flower Buds: Picked when green and firm, the buds can be steamed, boiled, or stir-fried. Their taste is often compared to a mix of green beans and asparagus. They can also be pickled for a tangy treat.
- Flowers: The full blooms can be eaten fresh in salads for a crisp texture and mild, slightly floral flavor. They can also be dried and added to soups, where they act as a thickener and provide flavor. Stuffed daylily flowers are a popular delicacy.
- Tubers: Found at the end of the root system, these tubers are best harvested in late fall to early spring before the plant flowers. They have a nutty flavor and can be cooked and prepared like fingerling potatoes.
Edible Dayflowers (Commelina)
Several species of the wild plant known as dayflower (Commelina) are also edible, with a long history of use in Asian cuisine and folk medicine.
Edible Parts and Preparation
- Leaves and Stems: Young leaves and stems can be eaten raw in salads or cooked, similar to spinach. Cooking often helps to reduce the slightly mucilaginous texture.
- Flowers: The delicate flowers of Commelina can be used raw as a garnish for salads or candied for desserts.
- Roots: Some species have edible roots when cooked, though they can be slimy.
Comparison Table: Edible Day Flowers vs. Toxic True Lilies
| Feature | Daylilies (Hemerocallis) | True Lilies (Lilium) | Asiatic Dayflower (Commelina) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edibility | Edible (all parts), but toxic to cats | Toxic/Poisonous | Edible (some species) |
| Leaves | Long, slender, arching leaves with a central rib | Broader, lance-shaped leaves arranged alternately | Alternate, lance-shaped leaves on creeping stems |
| Root System | Tuberous roots | Bulbous roots | Creeping roots from nodes |
| Flower Duration | Each bloom lasts for one day | Blooms last for several days to weeks | Each bloom lasts for one day |
| Appearance | Large, trumpet-shaped flowers in many colors | Large, showy flowers, often with six petals | Two bright blue petals and one smaller white petal |
Important Safety Precautions
While eating day flowers can be a unique culinary experience, certain safety measures are non-negotiable.
- Positive Identification: Never eat a plant unless you are 100% certain of its identity. When foraging, use a reliable field guide and cross-reference with multiple sources.
- Start with Small Amounts: Some people may experience a mild allergic reaction or gastric distress, especially with daylilies. Always test your tolerance with a small, cooked portion first.
- Source Your Blooms Carefully: Avoid harvesting from areas where pesticides or other chemicals may have been sprayed, such as roadsides or commercial gardens. For best practice, grow your own organic edible flowers. A great resource for general edible flower knowledge is the Green Bay Botanical Garden website, which provides safe preparation tips.
- Pet Safety: If you own cats, be aware that daylilies are highly toxic to them. Even a small amount of pollen or petals can cause severe kidney damage.
Conclusion
The question of "can you eat day flowers" has a positive answer, but it's loaded with critical distinctions. Daylilies and certain dayflowers are perfectly safe and delicious additions to the kitchen, offering a range of flavors for salads, stir-fries, and soups. However, the process demands a high degree of care, primarily to avoid toxic lookalikes like true lilies and to ensure the plant has not been treated with harmful chemicals. With careful identification and responsible sourcing, you can confidently explore the culinary potential of these beautiful blooms.
Green Bay Botanical Garden, Eating Daylilies: The Dos and Don'ts
How to Eat Day Flowers: A Simple Guide
- Correct Identification: The most critical step is ensuring you have edible daylilies (Hemerocallis) and not poisonous true lilies (Lilium). Pay attention to leaves and roots.
- Foraging Rules: Only harvest from areas you are sure are free from pesticides and herbicides, such as your own organic garden.
- Preparation: Rinse all parts of the flowers and plants gently in cool water before use. For some varieties, cooking is recommended to reduce sliminess.
- Serving Suggestions: Eat daylily petals fresh in salads, or sauté the buds. Dry the flowers for use in soups. Dayflower leaves can be added to stir-fries.
- Portion Control: When trying a new food, start with a small, cooked portion to test for any adverse reactions.
- Pet Caution: If you have cats, be extremely cautious. All parts of the daylily are toxic to felines.
How to Prepare Day Flowers (Daylilies)
Harvesting Young Shoots
Young daylily shoots should be picked in early spring. Cut them just above soil level when they are still tender. They can then be blanched and sautéed with butter and garlic for a side dish.
Cooking Daylily Buds
Daylily buds can be harvested in late spring or early summer when they are green and firm. Sauté them with herbs like thyme and a splash of lemon juice for a delicious appetizer.
Making Dried Daylily Noodles
To create dried daylily flowers, a traditional Chinese ingredient, pick the newly opened flowers and lay them out to dry in the sun. These dried "golden needles" can be rehydrated and used to thicken and flavor soups and stews.
Stuffing Daylily Flowers
For a show-stopping dish, daylily flowers can be stuffed with a soft cheese mixture (like herbed ricotta) and drizzled with olive oil. The crisp texture of the petals provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling.
Enjoying Dayflower Greens
Young leaves and tender stems of edible Commelina species are great for culinary use. They have a mild, pea-like flavor and can be steamed, boiled, or fried. They add a leafy texture and nutrients to any meal.
Growing Your Own Edible Flowers
If you have a garden, growing your own daylilies or dayflowers ensures a pesticide-free supply. Daylilies are resilient perennials that thrive in various conditions, while some dayflowers can be grown from cuttings or seeds.
Incorporating Edible Flowers into Your Diet
Begin by adding a few petals to a green salad for color and a mild flavor accent. Move on to incorporating buds into stir-fries or tubers into stews. This allows you to explore the unique tastes and textures without overwhelming your palate. Just be mindful of allergic reactions and enjoy your culinary adventure!
