Begonias are indeed edible, and their leaves and flowers can be enjoyed in various culinary applications. Making them a beautiful addition to any landscape.
The flowers, stems, and leaves of some begonias are edible. They can be used in salads, cocktails, and more.
Edible parts
• Flowers: The petals of tuberous begonias and wax begonias are edible and have a slightly sour, citrus flavor. They can be used as a garnish or in salads.
• Stems: The stems of tuberous begonias can be eaten like rhubarb.
• Leaves: The leaves of tuberous begonias can be added to salads. The leaves of Begonia have a tart taste and can be used in salads or with seafood.
Uses
• Salads: The petals can be used to brighten up salads.
• Cocktails: The petals can be used to garnish cocktails or frozen into ice cubes.
• Tea: The flowers can be steeped in hot water to make tea.
• Jelly: The flowers can be used to make jelly.
Nutritional Value
Begonias are low in calories and provide vitamins and minerals. They contain vitamin C and other antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to the diet.
Begonias have also been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments
Traditional uses
• Digestive issues: Begonia leaves and roots have been used to treat digestive issues, diarrhea, and dysentery
• Skin conditions: Begonia leaves have been used to treat skin conditions
• Fever reduction: Begonia leaves have been used to reduce fever
• Respiratory infections: Begonia extracts have been used to treat respiratory infections and bronchitis
• Fungal infections: Begonia has been used to treat fungal infections
• Liver problems: Begonia has been used to treat liver problems
• Body inflammation: Begonia has been used to treat body inflammation
Cautions
• Begonia flowers and stems contain oxalic acid, so people with gout, kidney stones, or rheumatism should avoid eating them.
• People with pollen allergies might also want to avoid eating edible flowers.
• If you're not sure if a begonia flower is edible, don't eat it.