What is the nutritional value of lily flower?

January 8, 2026 •

4 min read

For thousands of years, specific varieties of lily flowers and bulbs have been a staple in traditional Chinese and Native American cuisine. This rich history points to a significant nutritional value of lily flower varieties, particularly the daylily and tiger lily, which are celebrated for more than just their beauty.

Quick Summary

The nutritional value of specific edible lily flowers and bulbs includes essential vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and beneficial antioxidant compounds. Their nutrient content varies depending on the species and which part of the plant is consumed.

Key Points

Edible vs. Toxic: Only specific lily species, like the Daylily, are edible; many common ornamental lilies are poisonous, especially to cats.
Nutrient-Dense Bulbs: Edible lily bulbs are a significant source of starch, protein, potassium, iron, and folate, making them a nutritious and starchy vegetable.
Vitamins and Fiber: Daylily flowers and buds are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C and carotene (vitamin A), and provide ample dietary fiber, particularly in their dried form.
Antioxidant Power: Edible lilies contain beneficial bioactive compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids, which offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses: Dried daylily buds, known as 'golden needles', are a staple in Asian cuisine, while both bulbs and flowers have long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for their therapeutic properties.
Safety First: Ensure proper identification of edible species and be aware of potential sensitivities, as some people may experience mild side effects from daylilies.

Understanding Edible Lilies: Daylilies and Beyond

Before exploring the nutritional profile, it is critical to distinguish between edible and toxic species. The term "lily flower" can refer to many different plants, but only specific varieties are safe for consumption. The most commonly consumed variety is the daylily (Hemerocallis genus), especially Hemerocallis fulva, known in Chinese cuisine as 'golden needles' or 'gum jum choi'. Certain true lilies (Lilium genus), such as the tiger lily (Lilium lancifolium) and Chinese lily (Lilium brownii), also have edible parts. Many other types, including Easter lilies, peace lilies, and lily of the valley, are highly toxic and should never be consumed.

Edible Varieties

Daylily (Hemerocallis fulva)
Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium)
Chinese Lily (Lilium brownii)
Sego Lily (Calicortis nuttalli)

Toxic Varieties

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)
Easter Lily (Lilium longiflorum)
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

The Nutritional Profile of Edible Lily Parts

The nutritional content of lily plants can vary significantly between the flower, bud, and bulb. Both daylilies and true edible lilies offer a low-calorie addition to a meal, rich in macronutrients and beneficial compounds.

Lily Bulbs: A Starchy and Mineral-Rich Food Source

For edible lilies, the bulb is the most nutrient-dense part and has been used culinarily and medicinally for centuries.

Macronutrients: Lily bulbs are primarily composed of starch, making them a source of carbohydrates for energy. They also contain protein and dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
Minerals: They are notable for their high mineral content, including potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure; iron, which is essential for blood production; and phosphorus, which strengthens bones and teeth.
Vitamins: Lily bulbs contain folic acid, important for red blood cell production, as well as vitamins B1, B2, and C.

Daylily Flowers and Buds: Vitamins, Fiber, and Phytochemicals

Daylily flowers and buds are consumed fresh or dried and provide a different nutritional balance than the bulbs.

Vitamins: They are a good source of vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant and supports the immune system. They also contain high levels of carotene, a precursor to vitamin A.
Dietary Fiber: Dried daylily flowers, in particular, are a high-quality source of dietary fiber, with studies showing a significantly higher concentration than fresh flowers.
Protein: They contain a moderate amount of protein, with research indicating up to 14% of the dried material can be protein.

Bioactive Compounds and Health Benefits

Beyond basic nutrition, lily flowers and bulbs contain a variety of bioactive compounds that offer potential health benefits, many of which are utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Flavonoids: Found in daylilies, flavonoids are potent antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, combat inflammation, and may offer cardioprotective effects.
Polysaccharides: Daylilies contain complex carbohydrates, including a water-soluble polysaccharide isolated from flower buds, that can support gut health.
Carotenoids: A major source of carotenoids, daylilies can support eye health and provide additional antioxidant activity.
Saponins: Studies on white lily (Lilium candidum) have identified saponins and other phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory and potential anti-diabetic properties.

The Role of Lily in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In TCM, dried lily bulbs (Bai He) and dried daylily flowers (Huang Hua) have distinct therapeutic properties. Lily is considered cooling and is used to nourish the lungs, relieve coughs, and clear 'heart-fire,' which helps to calm the mind and promote restful sleep. Other traditional uses include treating digestive issues and promoting skin complexion. The roots of the daylily have also been traditionally used as a blood purifier and for treating conditions like jaundice and constipation.

Comparison of Lily Plant Parts


Feature	Edible Daylily Buds (Dried)	Edible Lily Bulbs (Cooked)
Primary Macronutrient	Carbohydrates	Starch
Dietary Fiber Content	High (approx. 6.7g/100g)	High (water-soluble glucomannan)
Carotene (Vitamin A)	High (several times higher than tomatoes)	Present
Vitamins	Vitamin C, B-vitamins	Folic acid, B1, B2, C
Minerals	Iron, Phosphorus, Calcium	Potassium, Iron, Phosphorus, Calcium
Taste & Texture	Chewy and slightly crunchy with a musky, floral aroma	Starchy and sweet, with a texture similar to potatoes or turnips
Common Use	Stir-fries, soups (e.g., Hot and Sour Soup)	Stews, soups, candied, stir-fries

Safe Consumption and Preparation

To safely enjoy the nutritional benefits of edible lilies, follow these guidelines:

Positive Identification: Only consume lilies that have been positively identified as edible, such as the common daylily. Never forage from unknown sources, as many similar-looking plants are poisonous.
Pet Safety: Be extremely cautious with lilies around pets, especially cats, for whom many species are fatally toxic.
Proper Preparation: Dried lily buds, or 'golden needles,' require rehydration by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Bulbs should be cooked thoroughly, often boiled or roasted.
Gradual Introduction: As with any new food, especially foraged items, start with a small amount to test for any personal sensitivities. Some individuals may experience stomach upset or laxative effects from daylilies.

For more detailed information on preparing edible daylilies, a useful resource is found on the Honest Food blog(https://honest-food.net/dining-on-daylilies/).

Conclusion

While many people know lilies only for their ornamental value, certain species, like the daylily and tiger lily, are safe for human consumption and provide a host of nutrients. The nutritional value of lily flower and bulb parts includes significant amounts of vitamins (A, C, folate), minerals (potassium, iron, phosphorus), and dietary fiber. Additionally, they contain bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, a fact supported by their traditional use in Asian medicine. However, because some lily species are toxic, proper identification and preparation are paramount for safely incorporating these unique and beneficial plants into your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all lilies are edible. Many species are poisonous, including Easter lilies, peace lilies, and lily of the valley. Only specific varieties like the Daylily (Hemerocallis fulva) and some true lilies (Lilium) should be consumed, and only after positive identification.

For edible species, you can consume the bulbs, young shoots, flower buds, and petals. The bulbs are starchy and sweet, while the buds and flowers can be eaten fresh, sautéed, or added to soups.

Lily bulbs are a great source of starch, protein, and dietary fiber. They are also particularly rich in minerals like potassium, iron, and phosphorus, along with folic acid.

'Golden needles' is the common name for dried lily buds, which are the unopened flowers of the daylily plant. They are a popular ingredient in Chinese, Japanese, and other Asian cuisines.

No, many lily species are highly toxic and potentially fatal to cats, even in small amounts. While dogs are more resistant, they can still experience adverse reactions. If you have pets, it's safest to avoid having lilies in your home or garden.

Dried lily buds must be rehydrated before use. First, rinse them to remove dirt. Then, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes, or longer, until they soften. You can then use them in stir-fries, soups, and other dishes.

The flavor of daylily flowers and buds can vary. Some describe the buds as having a pea-like flavor, while the petals can be sweet with a delicate floral taste. They are often used to add unique texture and aroma to dishes.