Which Flowers Are Edible? – The Complete List

Pansy – Mild flavor, beautiful in salads and on pastries

Calendula (Marigold) – Slightly peppery taste, great in soups and butter

Lavender – Aromatic, used in baked goods, sugar, and tea

Violet – Sweet and decorative, perfect for desserts

Borage – Fresh cucumber-like taste, great in salads and drinks

Nasturtium – Spicy and peppery, tasty in sandwiches and salads

Rose – Fragrant and romantic, used in tea, syrup, and desserts

Elderflower – Classic in cordials and pancakes

Chamomile – Mild flavor, often used for tea

Cornflower – Decorative, neutral taste

Tagetes (Marigold) – Citrus-like flavor, suitable for rice and salads

Scented Geranium – Aromatic, used in baking and drinks

Dahlia – Varying flavors, can be eaten raw or cooked

Red Clover – Mild and sweet, lovely in salads

Sweet William (Dianthus) – Mildly spicy flavor, beautiful for decorating cakes, salads, and desserts

Note! Only eat flowers that you are absolutely sure are edible and untreated. Avoid flowers from florists or plants grown near roads or sprayed areas.

Edible flowers have long been used both for their flavors and their beautiful appearance in cooking and baking. In Norway, many flowers are not only safe to eat but also delicious and decorative. Examples include calendula, pansy, elderflower, lavender, and borage. They can be used in salads, baked goods, drinks, or as beautiful garnishes. However, it’s important to ensure the flower is edible and has not been treated with chemicals.

Edible flowers are often sold in well-stocked grocery stores, garden centers, through florists, or at organic markets. During the summer season, they can also be found at farmers' markets or from small-scale growers. For the best quality, choose organically grown flowers labeled as edible. You can also buy seeds to grow your own edible flowers at home.

Norway’s natural environment offers several wild flowers that are both beautiful and edible – but pick with knowledge! Examples of wild edible flowers include elderflower, dandelion, violet, red clover, and meadowsweet. These can be used in cordials, syrups, salads, or baked goods. Avoid picking near roads or potentially polluted areas. Only pick flowers you can confidently identify – some flowers can be toxic.

Many edible flowers are easy to grow in a Danish garden or on a balcony. Favorites include calendula, nasturtium, borage, lavender, tagetes, and roses. They thrive in sunny spots and bloom abundantly during the summer. It’s also very popular to fry zucchini’s large, beautiful yellow flowers – often filled with cheese or herbs – creating a crispy, flavorful appetizer perfect for summer meals. Growing your own flowers gives you access to fresh, untreated decorations – perfect for both everyday use and special occasions!

Edible flowers are a simple way to enhance both the flavor and appearance of your dishes. Sprinkle fresh pansies over a salad, garnish a drink with lavender, or add some calendula to a cheese platter. Flowers add color, texture, and sometimes a subtle flavor – while also impressing your guests.

Decorating cakes with edible flowers has become a real trend – and it’s easy to see why. Pansies, roses, violets, lavender, and calendula are popular choices that create a romantic and natural feel. Use fresh flowers the same day for best results, or dry them beforehand for a more rustic look. Make sure the flowers are untreated and safe to eat.

White flowers add an elegant and fresh impression to the plate. Edible examples include elderflower, chamomile, white violets, and blooming chives. They are perfect for decorating light pastries, in salads, or drinks. White flowers blend beautifully with other colors and create a lovely contrast.

Flowers in blue and purple tones add depth and mystique. Think violets, lavender, borage, and cornflower – all edible and beautiful. These colors are especially striking in summer salads or as decorations on cakes and cocktails. The flowers may also offer a mild spiciness or sweetness.

Pink flowers are romantic and playful – perfect for cakes, desserts, and drinks. Rose petals, scented geraniums, and some dahlias are examples of edible pink flowers. Feel free to mix different shades to create a lively impression. They work well both fresh and dried and can also be used in rose sugar or tea.