Chrysanthemum flowers

Edible Flower #8: Chrysanthemum

Best known for their use in tea, chrysanthemum flowers (Dendranthema or Chrysanthemum sp. ) are also colorful additions to salads, especially when blanched and tossed with sugar. All varieties of chrysanthemum are edible, but traditional teas and wines are typically made with the yellow or white flowers of Chrysanthemum morifolium or Chrysanthemum indicum.

The flavor varies depending on the variety but can be a little peppery – be sure to remove the base of the petal to keep it from being too bitter. Check out our article on Growing Edible Chrysanthemums for more information.

Garden mums are full-sun perennials, hardy to planting zone 5. They bloom in summer, but if you pinch off the buds they’ll put on a spectacular show in the fall.

For more growing tips, see How To Grow Chrysanthemums In Your Garden.

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Danny Lipford

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Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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