chagrinvalleyherbsociety Pinks Dianthus spp.
In addition to being favorite garden flowers, Dianthus have been part of traditional medicine in communities around the world for centuries. It has been used to treat fever, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, constipation and dysmenorrhea.
Carnations became the symbol of Mother’s Day when Miss Anna Jarvis sent 500 white carnations in honor of her mother to everyone in her mother’s church on the very first Mother’s Day in 1908. She requested that the flower be considered representative of purity, strength and endurance, symbols of ideal motherhood.
Tips for Use
Shake out and rinse flower petals prior to use. One technique is to place in a colander or strainer and submerge into a bowl of cold water. Drain and let dry on a clean towel.
Add to salads, top cakes and other desserts; steep in beverages and use in candy making.
Use in a compound butter with other herbs for muffins and other baked goods.
Freeze flowers in ice cube trays with water, lemonade or tea to add to beverages.
Use with other fresh herbs or alone to make tea. 1 cup of boiling water to 1 tablespoon of fresh petals or herb blend.
Flower Petal Butter
1⁄2 cup butter, softened
Dianthus petals including carnations (organic) and pink
In a bowl, blend butter and petals together. Place blended butter on wax paper and form into a log shape. Wrap, twisting the ends to secure and refrigerate for several hours before use so the flavors will blend. Alternatively, place blended butter into a decorative bowl. Cover and refrigerate. Soften slightly before use. Note: additional edible flower petals such as violets, calendulas, roses and lavender can be included.
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